Planning and Advocacy Manager

About Communities First, Inc.

Communities First, Inc. is a Michigan-based nonprofit 501 (c) (3) whose mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. CFI is focused on providing safe, quality, affordable housing, increasing economic opportunities, and improving the quality of life of the populations that the organization serves. 

Job Summary

Planning and Advocacy Manager is responsible for advancing Communities First, Inc.’s public policy, community planning, advocacy, and economic development initiatives in alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. 

Planning and Advocacy Manager supports policy research, strategic partnerships, community engagement strategies, and economic development opportunities that expand CFI’s impact across housing, economic mobility, and community revitalization efforts. 

The Planning and Advocacy Manager works closely with senior leadership to identify opportunities for growth, influence public policy, strengthen community voice, and position CFI as a trusted leader in community development. 

Essential Functions

Government Relations and Advocacy

• Serve as liaison between CFI and local, state, and federal government representatives 

• Monitor legislation, public policy trends, and funding opportunities that impact CFI’s programs 

• Assist in scheduling and coordinating meetings with public officials and community leaders 

• Prepare briefing materials, policy summaries, and advocacy talking points 

• Represent CFI at public meetings, hearings, and civic events as assigned 

Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement

• Build and sustain relationships with community organizations, nonprofit partners, corporate stakeholders, and civic institutions 

• Identify and cultivate partnerships that may result in sponsorships, volunteers, in-kind contributions, or funding support 

• Support the development and execution of neighborhood plans and community engagement strategies 

• Facilitate meetings, forums, and listening sessions to strengthen resident voice and participation 

Planning and Research

• Conduct research and analysis related to housing policy, economic mobility, zoning, land use, and community development trends 

• Assist in identifying strategic growth opportunities aligned with CFI’s mission 

• Maintain an up-to-date database of advocacy initiatives, partnerships, and special projects 

• Track measurable outcomes related to policy impact and community engagement 

• Research and pursue economic development funding opportunities, incentives, and public-private partnerships that align with CFI’s mission and project pipeline 

Fund and Resource Development Support

• Support grant research and proposal development tied to advocacy, planning, and economic development initiatives 

• Collaborate with Development and Marketing teams to align messaging and outreach 

• Assist with event planning related to advocacy campaigns, public forums, and community initiatives 

Communications and Brand Representation

• Contribute to internal and external communications related to advocacy, planning, and economic development 

• Assist in drafting position statements, public comment submissions, and impact stories 

• Maintain a positive and professional presence representing Communities First, Inc. in the community 

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Urban Planning, Political Science, Community Development, Social Work, or related field required. Graduate degree preferred. 

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Training, and Experience

• 3 to 5 years of experience in public policy, advocacy, government relations, urban planning, economic development, or nonprofit community development 

• Strong understanding of local government processes and economic development frameworks 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

• Strong research and analytical abilities 

• Experience building partnerships and engaging community stakeholders 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously 

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite 

• Experience working in or with nonprofit organizations preferred 

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments 

• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment 

Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance

Communities First, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local