About Communities First, Inc.
Communities First, Inc. (CFI) is a Michigan-based nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. CFI is dedicated to providing safe, quality housing, increasing economic opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life for the underserved populations it serves.
Job Summary
Marketing and Communications Coordinator: is responsible for developing and executing internal and external communications strategies that uphold and amplify CFI’s brand, digital, and written communication strategies. This role plays a vital part in telling CFI’s story, increasing engagement, and strengthening community and stakeholder support through thoughtful messaging and impactful content across multiple platforms. The ideal candidate will be a creative and strategic communicator with strong project management skills and a passion for community development.
Essential Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, development, and execution of comprehensive internal and external communications strategies across digital, print, and multimedia platforms, including but not limited to:
-
- News releases and media relations,
-
-
-
- Donor and key stakeholder communications,
-
-
- Telling the story of Communities First, Inc.
- Ensure brand consistency and integrity in all communication and marketing materials, messaging, and outreach efforts.
- Create and manage content for websites, newsletters, press releases, social media, printed collateral, email campaigns, fundraising requests, and more.
- Design basic marketing materials using platforms like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite, including flyers, digital graphics, social media content, and event materials.
- Coordinate with outside vendors for the printing and production of marketing collateral, signage, and branded materials.
- Produce and edit short-form videos for social media and YouTube, showcasing programs, events, and the organization's impact.
- Oversee the organization’s social media presence, develop content calendars, and engage audiences across platforms.
- Craft donor and stakeholder communications that inspire support and deepen engagement with CFI’s mission.
- Support internal communications and staff updates to foster organizational alignment and culture.
- Provide speechwriting and messaging support to the President/CEO and other senior leaders.
- Assist staff in issue management and crisis communications,
- Support media relations efforts, including writing press releases, responding to media inquiries, and preparing staff for interviews.
- Manage website content updates and ensure an accurate, engaging online presence.
- Use metrics and analytics to evaluate campaign effectiveness and inform future strategies.
- Represent CFI at community events, fostering visibility and maintaining a consistent brand presence.
- Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to align communications efforts with organizational goals.
- Stay abreast of communications trends and technology in order to evolve CFI Communication strategies as appropriate.
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience & Skills:
- 2–3 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, or public relations (nonprofit experience preferred).
- Proficiency in creating print and digital content, including newsletters, flyers, social media graphics, and basic video editing.
- Experience with content creation tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) and video platforms (e.g., YouTube, Facebook)
- Experience managing vendor relationships for printing and promotional materials.
- Ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines.
- Familiarity with website CMS platforms (e.g., WordPress) and email marketing tools (e.g., Mailchimp) is a plus.
- Passion for community service, equity, and social impact.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and navigate stairs as needed.
Occasional evening and weekend availability for events or campaigns.
Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance
Communities First, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class under state, federal, or local law. Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship.
