Friends of the Children is a nonprofit that is breaking the cycle of generational poverty by helping children facing the most obstacles the ability to create a new story. We do this by providing the most vulnerable children with a long-term, salaried, professional mentor, who we call a “Friend,” from kindergarten through high school graduation, 12 ½ years – no matter what. We are currently seeking a skilled grants professional to join our National team as our National Grant Writer.

At Friends of the Children we put children first and use our values to change the way the world treats and views our most vulnerable youth. As our National Grants Writer you will help Friends of the Children expand by amplifying the voices of our children, families, and communities. Are you ready to use your skills to make an national impact? If so, the role of a National Grant Writer might be for you.

Curious to learn more? See the position details below. 

BASIC FUNCTION / POSITION OBJECTIVE:  

The Grant Writer is responsible for applying a high level of technical and creative writing skill to proposals to foundations, family foundations, and corporations for the purpose of soliciting funds. They maintain the accuracy of the annual grants calendar and prospect sheets, and lead the development of written project content and budgets for national, chapter and prospective site grants. This role also requires the ability to professionally manage and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders. The Grant Writer works as a part of a dynamic Development and Marketing Team and must feel a strong connection to and promote the organization’s mission, vision, values and principles, and uphold the professionalism of the organization at all times. This position reports to the Director of Strategic Impact and Grants.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Write grant proposals and reports on a timely basis as outlined on the organizational grant calendar; maintain a portfolio averaging 6 grants-related proposals per month.
• Manage the grants program, identifying new prospects, developing grant content and budgets, and maintaining annual grants calendar.
• Participate as member of Development and Marketing Team that is responsible for meeting annual revenue goals.
• Share responsibility for targeted revenue goals associated with foundation grant activities.
• Collaborate with national team, existing and prospective chapter leaders, to develop narrative content and budgets for grant proposals.
• Steward foundation contact relationships as assigned in order to place the organization in the strongest position to receive grant funds.
• Maintain clear and accurate written and electronic records of grant proposals and reports, including grant activity tracking in shared drives and databases. 
• Keep relevant staff informed about upcoming deadlines and deliverables, thereby ensuring smooth completion of work responsibilities.
• Assist in research and identification of grants appropriate to Friends of the Children.
• Maintain confidential information in a sensitive and appropriate manner.
• Special projects as assigned in support of organizational objectives.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of non-profit grant-writing experience, including collaboration with program management and finance to develop content and budgets.
• Demonstrated success in obtaining grant driven funding from foundations and/or corporations.
• Ability to analyze and synthesize information for writing grant proposals, letters, articles, etc.
• Ability to edit written materials accurately and consistently, including own work.
• Exceptional analytical as well as intuitive abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.  Able to plan, organize, and complete multiple grant proposals and/or reports and follow-up as required. Proven track record of meeting deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail, strong computer skills, and general understanding of financial principles.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, work independently, and effectively solve problems.
• Ability to cultivate and sustain relationships and work effectively with a wide variety of constituencies, including staff, program children, current and potential donors, Board members, and community partners.
• Ability to represent, effectively and professionally, the organization to a wide variety of audiences.
• Willing to be flexible, with the ability to work evenings and weekends if necessary for fundraising activities.

BENEFITS

• Full benefits (401k, Health, Dental, Vision, Life)

Friends of the Children is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to addressing discriminatory practices, and to working toward racial equity. The equal employment opportunity policy of Friends of the Children provides fair and equal opportunities for all employees and job applicants regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, disability, or genetic information, in compliance with applicable federal, state and local law. Friends of the Children hires and promotes individuals solely on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled.

Friends of the Children is growing rapidly as communities across the country are experiencing the power of how “One” changes a child's story: One Friend. One Child. 12 ½ years. No matter what. #ThePowerOfOne

To learn more about Friends of the Children go to: https://friendsofthechildren.org/