Associate Director of Grants - Continuum of Care (CoC) The Associate Director of Grants leads the CoC grant portfolio, including planning, applications, budgets, compliance, reporting, and process improvement. This role supports homeless services and housing programs across Kalamazoo County by coordinating partners, strengthening grant systems, and aligning funding with CoC priorities. In this role, you will work with UWSCMI departments, CoC member organizations, service providers, government agencies, and community partners to build strong relationships, support collaborative funding efforts, and advance equitable solutions to homelessness. This position plays a key role in translating the strategic direction of the CoC into actionable grant strategies, processes, and priorities. This is a grant-funded, hybrid position based in the Kalamazoo office. The role requires at least three days per week in the office and occasional travel within UWSCMI's service area: Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson, and Kalamazoo counties. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Contributes to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organizational culture that centers people in every solution, process, and function. Lead grant processes and funding strategies that center equity, accessibility, and the needs and experiences of people impacted by homelessness. Identify opportunities to improve equitable access to funding and strengthen systems that address disparities within the homeless response system. Grant Strategy and Portfolio Management Lead the strategy, planning, and management of a complex portfolio of CoC grants and funding opportunities in partnership with the CoC Director. Identify and pursue funding opportunities that support CoC and community priorities. Oversee the grant process from application through implementation, reporting, and closeout. Lead major funding initiatives, including state and federal grant processes. Improve grant processes and systems to support efficiency, compliance, and strong outcomes. Use funding trends and community needs to help guide grant priorities and strategy. Budget and Financial Management Support the development and management of grant and program budgets in partnership with the Director of Continuum of Care, Finance and Accounting, program leaders, and community partners. Monitor grant expenditures and financial performance and identify risks, trends, and opportunities for improvement. Ensure grant-funded activities align with approved budgets, funding requirements, and organizational priorities. Provide guidance and support to partners and stakeholders regarding grant budgets, allowable costs, and financial requirements. Monitoring, Compliance and Continuous Improvement Lead processes that ensure grants meet applicable funding and compliance requirements. Partner with internal teams and stakeholders to monitor grant performance, spending, and outcomes. Lead grant monitoring activities, including reviews, site visits, and evaluations. Identify risks and opportunities for improvement and implement solutions. Maintain effective systems for documentation, reporting, and accountability. Use data and feedback to improve grant-funded programs and processes. Strategic and Cross-Functional Support Turn CoC and UWSCMI priorities into clear grant strategies and action plans. Lead projects and initiatives involving UWSCMI teams, community partners, and other stakeholders. Build strong relationships with CoC members, funders, service providers, and community partners. Influence decisions and drive progress across teams and organizations without direct authority. Partner with internal teams to ensure grant work aligns with organizational priorities and processes. Represent the CoC and UWSCMI in community meetings, partnerships, and professional networks. Research and Innovation Stay informed about emerging trends, policies, funding opportunities, and best practices related to homelessness, housing systems, and grant funding. Conduct research and analysis to identify innovative approaches, evidence-based practices, and funding strategies that advance CoC priorities. Lead continuous improvement efforts that strengthen grant processes and the effectiveness of grant-funded programs. Other duties as assigned.
Job Requirements:
Demonstrates a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and ability to apply anti-oppressive and anti-racist principles in the workplace.
Experience in grant writing, management, and administration. A bachelor's degree in a related field and/or grant writing certification may supplement relevant experience.
Experience with homelessness, housing, social services, or the Continuum of Care model preferred.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local grant requirements related to housing and homelessness preferred.
Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
Experience managing budgets, financial reporting, multiple priorities, and deadlines.
Strong organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
Proficiency with databases and Microsoft 365 applications.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
Work Environment and Physical Demands:
Ability to work in front of a computer for extended periods ofFrequent sitting, standing, and walking.
Occasional lifting up to 5 pounds.
Successful completion of a criminal background check.
Candidate must be able to work successfully in a remote environment with private office space and high-speed internet.
Salary:
All the roles within UWSCMI have pay ranges that commensurate with the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the successful candidate. The minimum annual salary for this position is $65,520.About United Way of South Central Michigan: United Way of South Central Michigan (UWSCMI) gathers the power of three legacy organizations- Capital Area United Way, United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region, and United Way of Jackson County-to mobilize financial and volunteer resources, partners, and voices, creating equitable and lasting change for the most vulnerable people in our communities. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: UWSCMI is committed to dismantling systemic inequities that continue to cause harm for Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) people, women, and people with disabilities. We believe that these communities must be centered in the work we do. We strongly encourage applications from people with these identities or who are members of other marginalized communities. Together, we will continue to build capacity and accountability into our policies, practices, and partnerships. Total Rewards Package: United Way of South Central Michigan offers a competitive total rewards package including a competitive salary, medical coverage with an employer contribution of 85% towards single coverage and 70% towards dependent coverage, dental and vision with a 90% employer contribution towards single and dependent coverage, life insurance with an employer-paid benefit of 2 times annual salary, short-term disability, and long-term disability effective with the date of hire. In addition, United Way provides a 10% employer contribution into the 403(b) retirement plan each year with full vesting after 3 years of service and 20 days Paid Time Off, 13 days Paid Sick Time, 5 Paid Volunteer Days, 3 Floating Holidays and 11 Paid Holidays each year (Paid time off, sick time. Paid volunteer time and floating holidays are prorated the first year).
