Divisional Grants Specialist

Position Summary: The Grants Specialist will work alongside our Divisional Grants Manager and on behalf of our Corps/Units and Area Commands to provide resources through a wide variety of grants. This position will develop an in-depth understanding of programs to work closely with our Corps and Area Commands to prepare proposals, report on grant expenditures, and steward and cultivate donor relationships to maximize grant funds and awards. This role will research current major donors for additional cultivation/stewardship and identify non-donors with significant giving potential.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Draft detailed grant proposals by creating engaging narratives, accurate budgets, and persuasive presentation decks, that compel funders to donate, and submit to relevant parties, meeting funder requirements and deadlines.
• Work closely with the divisional fundraising team and local Corps officers to plan fundraising strategies, develop agendas and recommendations for current and future fundraising initiatives.
• Build & maintain positive relationships with fund providers and other stakeholders.
• Exercise independent and creative problem-solving to make recommendations to match up The Salvation Army programs with priorities of funders.
• Consult, provide grant funding advice, proposal review, and guidance to local Corps Officers and Area Commands to hit specific unit goals.
• Work within the existing National, Territorial, Divisional, and Corps/Unit structure for approvals prior to soliciting or engaging potential prospect donors.
• Research and prospect grant opportunities that fit the strategic plan.
• Ensure overall quality and accuracy of all grant documents.
• Follow up as appropriate; meets deadlines; responds to proposal/required reports inquiries.
• Represent The Salvation Army at public meetings with organizations, foundations, corporate representatives, and other community members, as requested.
• Attend and participates in program staff and committee meetings as requested.
• Serve as a liaison between program managers and outside funding sources.
• Identify media and public relations opportunities highlighting foundation partnerships and support and how The Salvation Army programs benefit the communities served.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Writes high-quality, detailed donor reporting and thank you letters, letters of inquiry, and corporate sponsorship letters.

Qualifications:

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, non-profit administration, literary, or related degree; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Demonstrated successful experience in proposal writing and familiarity with donor development.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities:

• Creative, strategic thinker.
• Excellent writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Computer Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365.
• Working knowledge of TEAMS and SharePoint.
• Willingness to learn new software as needed.

Certificates and Licenses:

• Complete Safe From Harm training and keep current as needed.
• Must have and maintain a current valid driver's license and pass the Salvation Army Motor Vehicle Record check (MVR).