Rural Fellow

Do you understand grantmaking and have public speaking experience? Are you looking to join an amazing foundation making a difference in Washtenaw County? If so, read on!

About Us
The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is a $240 million dollar community foundation focused on improving the economic mobility and quality of life of the residents of Washtenaw County. Our assets have doubled since 2015 and now AAACF is one of the 20 fastest-growing community foundations in the US. Founded in 1963, AAACF administers over 600 charitable funds. Through a core team of 20 Trustees, 19 employees, and 400+ volunteers. AAACF works to connect people, charitable causes, and permanent capital for community impact as the philanthropic hub of Washtenaw County.

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Don’t check off every box? – Apply Anyway!
Statistics show that marginalized groups - such as women, LGBTQ+, and people of color – are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. AAACF is dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace that fosters a sense of belonging – so if you’re excited about this role but your experience does not align perfectly with every requirement below, we encourage you to still consider applying. Who knows, you might be the right fit for another future role!

About the Role
The Rural Fellow position at the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation is a 2-year position with the intention of enhancing the AAACF’s rural philanthropic presence. This person will support multiple teams within AAACF, with a high level of engagement with both the Philanthropy and Community Investment teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Meet with key leaders and stakeholders in rural communities to determine needs and identify opportunities for engagement.
• Map the rural communities in Washtenaw County (Chelsea, Milan, Dexter, Manchester, Saline, Whitmore Lake) for donors and non-profit presence, data analysis of our database, and conduct prospect research.
• Draft outreach and create collateral (presentations, newsletter articles, targeted email messages) to key audiences such as community members, non-profit organizations, and donors.
• Plan and organize events appropriate to each community's needs and interests.
• Maintain and track contact information and conversations in CRM.

About You

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a field related to the nonprofit sector/philanthropy is required.
• Grounded understanding of traditional grantmaking and development strategies.
• Experience and comfort with public speaking and presentations.
• Flexible, responsive, and collaborative work style with a strong service mentality.
• Proven ability to work successfully with diverse populations and demonstrated commitment to promote and enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, including Word and Excel.

Benefits
The Foundation has a generous benefits package for employees which includes a hybrid work schedule (in-office 3-days/week); health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off, a 403(b) plan with contribution matching; life insurance; short and long-term disability insurance; flexible and childcare savings accounts; paid time off; and other benefits.