Grant Writer and Development Manager

Duties: Under the directions of the Supervisor of Advancement and Communications, the Grant and Development Manager is responsible for the following essential duties: Coordinate and administer the District's corporate sponsorship program by serving as the primary contact for sponsors, responding to inquiries, managing sponsorship agreements, and ensuring all contractual deliverables are fulfilled accurately and on schedule. Oversee donor acknowledgements, memorial contributions, sponsorship records, correspondence, and other development related administrative functions. Collaborate with the Grant Manager and District departments to identify meaningful program outcomes, performance measures, and community impact metrics that strengthen grant proposals and communicate the measurable results of grant funded projects through marketing, donor stewardship, annual reports, presentations, and other public communications. Research emerging funding opportunities and maintain grant prospecting calendars, application schedules, and funding priorities to support the District's strategic goals. As directed, prepare, write, edit, and submit grant proposals, applications, budgets, and supporting documentation for prospective funding opportunities. Assist in the development and implementation of fundraising and philanthropic initiatives in support of the Peoria Park District and Peoria Park District Foundation, including proposals for grants, sponsorships, annual giving, memorial donations, major gifts, and other development opportunities. Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Support all aspects of the Park District's safety program. Perform all other duties as required and as assigned.

Essential Functions: Physical (minimal): Ability to sit for extended periods. Manual dexterity to operate the computer keyboard. Mental: Ability to maintain close concentration for extended periods of time. Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to analyze data, solve problems, and make sound decisions independently. Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Education: Requires a minimum of a four-year degree in Public Administration, Communications, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Marketing, English, or a related field. Although a degree is preferred, extensive experience in grant writing, development, fundraising, sponsorship management, or a similar position with comparable duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirement.

Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in grant research and writing, fund development, corporate sponsorship, donor stewardship, fundraising principles, public relations, and administrative procedures. Knowledge and Ability: Knowledge of grant research, grant writing, fund development, corporate sponsorship, donor stewardship, fundraising principles, public relations, and administrative procedures. Ability to identify funding opportunities, prepare persuasive grant proposals, and manage multiple projects, deadlines, and reporting requirements with a high degree of accuracy. Ability to collect, interpret, and communicate program data and performance metrics to demonstrate organizational impact and funding outcomes. Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with sponsors, donors, grantors, community organizations, public and private partners, and District staff. Ability to represent the Peoria Park District and Peoria Park District Foundation professionally in all interactions. Ability to work cooperatively with representatives of community, public, and private organizations to promote the mission and image of the Peoria Park District. Understanding of financial principles with the ability to apply and interpret knowledge in practical situations related to grant budgets, sponsorship agreements, and development activities. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Ability to work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in an enthusiastic and cooperative manner while collaborating effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds and personalities. Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

Benefits and Perks: Paid sick days, vacation days, and holidays. Longevity bonus program and wellness program. Pension and retirement programs and Social Security participating. Exceptional health plan. Paid Life Insurance. Disability Insurance. Full-time employees and dependents enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities. The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.