POSITION OVERVIEW The Grant Writer will play a key role in Lift to Rise's revenue development through proposal writing and by managing relationships with foundations, governments and other large donors. The Grant Writer is responsible for a robust annual grant application and reporting schedule and will work collaboratively across departments to help ensure alignment and consistency in funder messaging and engagement. This position will write and edit high-quality proposals and materials from concept to completion, as well as coordinate all supporting documentation for grant requests and reports. The Grant Writer will steward relationships with funders, providing detailed overviews and information about the ongoing work of Lift to Rise. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Proposal Writing and Research
- In the role of lead writer, write compelling proposals to renew or maintain existing foundation funding base, and secure new philanthropic grants by developing a clear, persuasive, and compelling narratives about the organization's mission, plans and accomplishments, ensuring compliance with funder requirements and deadlines. The organization currently has approximately $3 million in philanthropic grants secured annually.
- Proactively seek out and evaluate opportunities for grants that align with the organization's needs and geographic focus. Conduct any necessary research to inform the strategy, positioning and outreach to potential funders.
- Draft and edit high-impact materials including letters of inquiry, initial concept notes, grant reports, pitch decks, and other supporting materials.
- Conduct fund development research and stay abreast of trends in philanthropic giving in the Coachella Valley, California, and nationally in the areas of affordable housing, community development, collective impact, policy change, and living wage jobs.
- Maintain working knowledge of the range of partners that comprise Lift to Rise's Collective Action Network (nonprofits, governments, academics, low-income residents and other partners).
Grant Management and Reporting
- Develop and organize each aspect of the organization's grant fundraising program, including coordinating and tracking full grant cycles, proposal submissions, and reporting deadlines.
- Manage grant application projects and processes, and stay informed about ongoing work and results, collecting supporting information (e.g, data, budgets, press) from team members.
- Maintain strong relationships with staff and/or program officers of foundations, government agencies and other philanthropic institutions, keeping them informed on how their contributions are being used, responding to requests, and otherwise stewarding these relationships.
- Other duties may be assigned as needed to support the organization's goals.
QUALIFICATIONS
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in grant writing and funder relationship management, with a proven track record of securing institutional grants from foundations, corporations and/or government agencies.
- Bachelor's degree, preferably related to communications, public policy, journalism, English or related areas.
- Exceptional writing, research and editing skills.
- The ability to distill complicated community development concepts, such as affordable housing, housing and economic policy, to a broader audience or transferable experience.
- Ability to meet and manage competing deadlines, work independently, and collaborate effectively in a team setting.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office online suite, comfort with grant portals (e.g. Fluxx, Benevity).
- Familiarity with Salesforce or grant management system software preferred.
REQUIREMENTS
- Experience working in and/or with communities of color.
- Ability to work full-time, including occasional weekends and evenings as needed.
- A passion and authentic commitment to justice and equity for people of all ethnicities, races, ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, economic circumstances, physical and mental abilities and characteristics, and philosophies.
- Genuine commitment to resident and community issues in the Coachella Valley, as well as the vision, mission, and values of Lift to Rise.
- This role is based at Lift to Rise in Palm Desert, California.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Able to frequently walk, sit, and perform other job duties in both indoor and outdoor environments Able to occasionally stand for long periods of time
- Visual acuity to operate computer and laptop for extended periods of time
- Able to occasionally lift up to 30-40 pounds without assistance
BENEFITS: (Waiting period may apply)
- Health Insurance - Medical, Vision & Dental
- Paid Holidays
- PTO - Paid Time Off
- Retirement Benefits
HOW TO APPLY Please send your resume, a grant writing sample (must be for an actual grant, with identifying information redacted), and a cover letter indicating how your experience and qualifications align with this position. ABOUT LIFT TO RISE Lift to Rise works to achieve a future where all Coachella Valley families are healthy, stable, and thriving. To this end, Lift to Rise catalyzes both institutional and grassroots leaders to effectively collaborate and shift their attention and activities toward mutually reinforced interventions that address the underlying causes of poverty in the region. To learn more, please visit: OUR VALUES
- Community: We believe that community voice and leadership must be central to planning, implementation, and evaluation of our work.
- Racial Equity: We seek and value all types of diversity, and strive to dismantle inequities, including those present in ourselves, our organizations, and our communities.
- Innovation: We believe change is possible, are not afraid to try new ways to solve old problems, and take initiative to learn, cross boundaries, and overcome obstacles.
- Results: We set bold, clear goals, measure progress, and use data informed by the community to make decisions and hold ourselves and each other accountable.
- Servant Leadership: We build trust with partners, step up when others need help, and seek to lift up and support the leadership and actions of others.
- Belonging: We create teams and spaces where people are celebrated, feel care and love, practice empathy, and work through differences.