Development & Communications Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

About The Arc of Macomb County

The Arc of Macomb County is a nonprofit community service organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across their lifespan. The SpArc program (formerly Boundary Spanners) is a jail-diversion and reentry program supporting individuals with IDD who are involved in or at risk of involvement in the criminal justice system.

Position Summary

The Development & Communications Specialist supports both SpArc’s and The Arc of Macomb County’s growth and sustainability by coordinating fundraising and donor cultivation, developing outreach and marketing materials, managing digital and print communications, and fostering relationships with key community partners. This position requires strong design, writing, research, and interpersonal skills, along with a deep commitment to disability justice, community advocacy, and inclusive communication.

Objectives of This Role

• Promote awareness of the SpArc program and The Arc of Macomb’s mission
• Coordinate internal and external communications, including digital content
• Build strong relationships with legal, law enforcement, healthcare, and community stakeholders
• Cultivate donor, sponsor, and partner engagement across sectors
• Create and manage outreach materials for diverse audiences
• Oversee public relations, media outreach, and press opportunities
• Support sustainability planning and track program impact
• Assist in coordination of legislative advocacy and policy communication efforts on behalf of The Arc of Macomb County
• Plan fundraising initiatives
• Spot new fundraising opportunities

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Develop, organize, and manage annual campaigns, major gift donations, and planned giving
• Research and identify fundraising opportunities from individuals, corporations, and foundations
• Develop and refine a strong fundraising message and clear, compelling donor proposals
• Identify, develop, and maintain online fundraising platforms and campaigns
• Organize, coordinate, and execute fundraising events while overseeing teams of volunteers
• Develop and execute donor, member, and volunteer appreciation efforts
• Evaluate campaigns and events to determine effectiveness
• Maintain databases of donors, prospective donors, members, and volunteers
• Attend community events to promote the SpArc program and The Arc of Macomb County
• Report on data and impact to internal and external stakeholders
• Prepare grant applications and fundraising proposals
• Create regular communication about SpArc and The Arc of Macomb programs; contribute to The Arc’s website and social media outlets
• Develop or assist in developing promotional and marketing materials
• Collaborate with administrative staff to promote and market the SpArc program and The Arc of Macomb County
• Organize and deliver regular communications and/or presentations about the SpArc program and upcoming events
• Develop and manage branding and communications for SpArc and The Arc of Macomb County
• Design and update brochures, newsletters, flyers, social media graphics, event signage, and digital assets
• Maintain and expand SpArc and The Arc of Macomb's webpages, ensuring accessibility and up-to-date content
• Write and publish social media posts, newsletters, and email campaigns targeting stakeholders
• Coordinate with law enforcement agencies on disability-inclusive materials (e.g., special needs registries)
• Track community engagement and website analytics to refine outreach strategies
• Represent SpArc and The Arc of Macomb at local, state, and national events including conferences and advocacy days
• Liaise with media and prepare press releases, op-eds, and letters to the editor
• Assist in writing sustainability reports and supporting program evaluation for the SpArc program
• Collaborate on internal initiatives such as employee recognition, public education campaigns, and inclusive event planning
• Support The Arc of Macomb County’s legislative advocacy, including monitoring bills, writing policy summaries, and organizing community action alerts
• Develop and implement marketing and promotional strategies for The Arc’s community events and fundraisers, including designing materials, coordinating outreach, and leveraging media and digital platforms

• Participate in all training as necessary
• Take part in all committees as assigned
• Participate in fundraising activities
• All other duties as assigned

Skills and Qualifications

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
• Excellent networking and community-building abilities
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple projects
• Ability to treat all stakeholders with dignity, compassion, and professionalism
• Knowledge of fundraising trends, donor regulations, and inclusive outreach
• Familiarity with legislative advocacy and disability policy

Preferred Qualifications

• Graphic design proficiency (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar)
• Website content management experience (e.g., WordPress)
• Strong copywriting and storytelling skills
• Knowledge of criminal justice systems, diversion programs, or disability advocacy
• Experience coordinating press outreach and writing public-facing content
• Certificate as Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) or similar qualifications
• Confidence with public speaking
• Proficiency in writing fundraising letters, grant proposals, and press releases

Reporting Structure and Schedule

This position reports to the SpArc Program Director and collaborates closely with The Arc of Macomb County’s Executive Director, Communications staff, and Administrative Leadership. Occasional nights and weekends are required for outreach and events. This role is 40 hours per week.

Compensation and Work Environment

$18–$23 per hour, DOE.

Position Supervised By:

Director of Quality/Program Director