POSITION OVERVIEW

211 of Metro Chicago connects community members with easily accessible and accurate information about available community resources. It is a nationally recognized and easy-to-remember phone number that currently serves approximately 95% of the American public. This service facilitates efficient connections between individuals seeking assistance and local health and human service resources.
The Strategic Initiatives Specialist is responsible for managing and advancing operations, outreach, and advocacy strategies for United Way’s Strategic Initiatives department. This role involves independent judgment, external representation, and strategic planning to enhance and promote United Way of Metro Chicago’s mission across public programming, policy and advocacy, and 211 Metro Chicago services.
The Specialist should be organized, curious, adaptable, and detail-oriented, with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences within the community. They are expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy in cultivating relationships with elected officials, funders, and community partners, while shaping initiatives that drive organizational visibility and impact.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent communication, writing and editing, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated experience managing outreach, advocacy, or community engagement projects with autonomy.
• Experience in indexing/abstracting or classification strongly preferred
• Computer skills – must be extremely proficient in Excel, Word, Access and experienced with social media
• Detail oriented and strong time management skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to set and manage priorities independently in a fast-paced environment from inception to conclusion.
• A team player capable and willing to support all aspects and jobs required for a successful organization
• Ability to manage priorities and to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• 2–3 years of nonprofit, advocacy, or policy experience preferred.