Organization Overview
The Eastside Community Network (ECN), established in 1984 as the Warren/Conner Development Coalition, works to develop people, places, and plans for sustainable neighborhood growth on Detroit's Eastside. Through strategic initiatives that center racial equity, resident power, and environmental justice, ECN empowers communities to transform their neighborhoods and lives.
Position Summary
The Communications and Engagement Manager will play a key role in amplifying ECN's mission, programs, and community impact. This position is responsible for crafting and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy, managing outreach efforts, and ensuring consistent, mission-driven messaging across all platforms. The Manager will support program staff in engaging residents and stakeholders, increase ECN's visibility, and strengthen relationships with media, partners, and the public.
Key Responsibilities
Communications Strategy & Content Development
- Develop and implement a strategic communications plan aligned with ECN's organizational goals.
- Create compelling content for digital, print, and multimedia formats, including newsletters, press releases, social media, website, brochures, and annual reports.
- Manage internal communications celebrating team achievements (weekly updates)
- Manage and guide each department’s monthly e-newsletters
- Oversee ECN's branding and ensure consistency of voice and design across all communications. - Maintain and update ECN's website and social media platforms regularly.
Community Engagement & Outreach
- Support program teams in planning and executing outreach campaigns for events, workshops, and initiatives.
- Develop culturally relevant materials to engage Eastside Detroit residents. Develop and publish a weekly “Pipeline” e-newsletter for the community.
- Coordinate community listening sessions, focus groups, and public forums.
- Build relationships with community stakeholders, resident leaders, media outlets, and partner organizations.
Storytelling
- Develop story-based content that highlights the voices of Eastside residents and ECN program participants.
- Manage weekly ECN Storytelling on social media showcasing our impact.
- Identify and promote success stories to funders, partners, and the public.
Development Support
- Collaborate with the Chief Development Officer to support donor and funder communications.
- Contribute to campaign materials, fundraising appeals, and impact storytelling for grants and sponsorships.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, or related field (or equivalent
experience).
- At least 2-3 years of experience in communications, preferably in a nonprofit or community-based organization.
- Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
- Proficient in social media platforms, graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite), website management (e.g., WordPress), and email marketing (Constant Contact). Experience with Monday, a project management tool, EventBrite and Google Suite are preferred.
- Demonstrated experience engaging racially and economically diverse communities.
- Knowledge of Detroit's Eastside neighborhoods and history is a plus.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary range: $50,000-$55,000 annually, commensurate with experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
EEO Statement
Eastside Community Network is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran
status, or any other characteristic protected by law.