Special Events Associate
2 days ago
Boston
Mission: Hearth is a non-profit organization dedicated to the elimination of homelessness among the elderly. This mission is accomplished through a unique blend of prevention, placement, and housing programs all designed to help elders find and succeed in homes of their own. To this end, all housing operated by Hearth provides a creative array of supportive services that assist residents to age with dignity, regardless of their special medical, mental health, or social needs. Hearth believes these goals are best accomplished through respect for elders and staff, with the desire to see both achieve their highest degree of potential. Position Overview The Special Events Associate takes a lead role in planning and executing special events for Hearth. This position plays a key role in connecting Hearth with the broader community by increasing awareness of the organization’s mission, strengthening partnerships, and expanding engagement opportunities. The Associate represents Hearth at community events, develops outreach strategies, supports volunteer engagement, and collaborates across departments to elevate Hearth’s visibility and impact among corporate and individual partners. The role works closely with the Development Director and other programmatic and administrative staff to support initiatives that strengthen organizational support, partnerships, and brand recognition. Essential Functions: • Support the planning and execution of three primary events in the Hearth calendar: Winter Walk, Annual Meeting, and Annual Inspire Action Gala., • Build and sustain strong relationships with community leaders, neighborhood associations, elected officials, businesses, universities, and civic partners., • Represent Hearth at internal and external events, meetings, and other public-facing opportunities., • Collaborate with development, volunteer, and program teams to align messaging, partnerships, and engagement efforts., • Support communication and marketing initiatives that elevate Hearth’s mission and highlight community impact. Duties and Responsibilities: Special Events • In partnership with the CEO, Board, and Development team, assist in the development of short and long-term growth plans for special events., • Assist in developing detailed event timelines, including vendor and venue coordination, marketing and email schedules, invitations, sponsorships and auction items, ticket sales, logistics (including permit and license deadlines), themes and activities, guest experience, communications, and night-of fundraising., • Coordinate pre-event planning, day-of run-of-show, and post-event follow-up, communications, recognition, and reporting., • Develop compelling event-related materials, including emails, social media promotions, event websites, signage, guest communications, and speaking points., • Coordinate Hearth representation, staffing, logistics, and participant engagement at Winter Walk., • Help with planning and logistics for the Annual Meeting., • Support fundraising and program activities for the Inspire Action Gala, including community outreach, invitation management, sponsor cultivation, and volunteer coordination., • Coordinate third-party events benefiting Hearth, ensuring appropriate, ethical, and approved use of the organization’s brand., • Research, develop, and support the launch of a young professionals group aligned with Hearth’s mission., • Help develop new community events that advance Hearth’s mission related to donor stewardship, advocacy and education, community engagement, geographic expansion, and emerging opportunities., • Collaborate with the Development Director and colleagues to engage corporate and individual prospects and develop sponsorship packages tailored to donor and partner interests., • Solicit event sponsors, steward sponsor relationships year-round, and secure in-kind donations for raffles and auctions to support fundraising goals., • Partner with the Development team to build fundraising and planning committees, raise awareness of Hearth events, and determine the most effective communication strategies across print, digital, and social platforms., • Ensure accurate entry of event-related gifts and participation data in Raiser’s Edge, including sponsorships, ticket sales, in-kind gifts, attendance, and night-of fundraising proceeds., • Compile post-event evaluations and analyze results, tracking progress toward organizational goals related to community engagement, fundraising, and growth. Community Engagement & Relations • In collaboration with the Volunteer Manager, cultivate partnerships with local stakeholders, businesses, service providers, educational institutions, and elected officials., • Work with the Volunteer Manager, Development Associate, and Associate Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations to strengthen outreach, engagement, and relationship-building strategies. Representation • Serve as a public ambassador for Hearth, promoting mission-driven initiatives and fostering trust within the community., • Engage authentically with residents, neighbors, volunteers, partners, and businesses to support community cohesion and mission alignment. Marketing & Communications • Assist with creation of outreach materials, including brochures, digital content, and event collateral, to support community and volunteer engagement efforts., • Collaborate with staff to ensure accurate, timely, and consistent updates across web, print, and social platforms that reinforce Hearth’s brand and mission., • Stay current on social media trends and recommend innovative approaches to enhance engagement and visibility., • Assist the Development team in the developing content strategy for the organization. Qualifications/Education/Experience Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Social Work, Business, Human Services, or related field required., • Two to five years of experience in event management, community engagement, outreach, nonprofit development, or communications preferred., • Experience working with diverse populations, community partners, or mission-driven organizations strongly preferred., • Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills., • Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor when representing Hearth in the community. Required Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge • Ability to learn and demonstrate knowledge of Hearth’s mission, programs, and services., • Familiarity with marketing, social media, and community outreach platforms., • Proficiency with Microsoft Office or Google Workspace and comfort learning new databases, CRM systems, and event-related platforms., • Ability to build and sustain strong relationships across internal and external stakeholder groups., • Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously., • Ability to communicate information clearly, concisely, and professionally., • Ability to track, analyze, and adjust programs and processes based on data and outcomes., • Adaptability, flexibility, and the ability to work under deadlines and changing priorities. Physical Requirements • Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods., • Ability to operate computers, phones, office equipment, and other technology used in outreach and communication., • Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically., • Ability to travel between Hearth sites and attend events and meetings off-site as needed., • Ability to support event-related activities, including light setup and breakdown tasks, with or without reasonable accommodation. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement Hearth is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of employment. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those with diverse backgrounds and those with disabilities. Compensation: $70,000-$75,000 Pay Transparency: The above reflects the anticipated annual salary range for this position if hired to work in Massachusetts. The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills and professional experience.