Director of Community Relations and Government Affairs

Columbus, Ohio | Full-Time | Executive Leadership

Build Relationships. Inspire Communities. Create Lasting Impact.

Our nonprofit partner is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Director of Community Relations to strengthen community engagement across Central and Southern Ohio.

This leadership role is ideal for someone who excels at building authentic partnerships, engaging diverse communities, managing impactful programs, and advancing a mission centered on civil rights, education, advocacy, and community empowerment.

You'll represent the organization throughout the region while leading community partnerships, donor engagement, volunteer and youth leadership initiatives, and signature events.

About the Organization

Our nonprofit partner works to advance civil rights, strengthen communities, promote civic engagement, and foster understanding across diverse populations. The organization collaborates with Muslim faith-based institutions, community organizations, civic leaders, educators, volunteers, donors, and regional partners to create lasting impact.

What You'll Do

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and maintain relationships with faith-based organizations, nonprofits, educational institutions, civic leaders, and community partners.

• Represent the organization at community events, conferences, workshops, and interfaith initiatives.

• Identify opportunities to expand outreach into underserved communities.

• Coordinate presentations, educational programs, and regional engagement activities.

• Maintain accurate partnership records within the organization's CRM.

Donor & Supporter Relations

• Develop and execute donor stewardship strategies.

• Support major donor cultivation alongside the Executive Director.

• Coordinate donor communications, sponsorships, impact updates, and appreciation efforts.

• Track donor engagement and sponsorship outcomes.

Volunteer, Internship & Youth Leadership Programs

• Recruit, train, and retain volunteers.

• Build partnerships with colleges and universities to expand internship opportunities.

• Lead youth leadership initiatives focused on civic engagement and advocacy.

• Create meaningful volunteer and leadership experiences that support the organization's mission.

Events & Community Initiatives

• Lead planning and execution of fundraising events and community programs.

• Manage timelines, vendors, logistics, sponsorships, budgets, and volunteer coordination.

• Oversee attendee experience and post-event follow-up.

• Continuously improve participation and community impact.

Qualifications

We're looking for someone with:

• 3+ years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, donor relations, event management, volunteer coordination, advocacy, or related fields

• Outstanding relationship-building and communication skills

• Strong project management and organizational abilities

• Experience managing multiple priorities and community partnerships

• Experience with volunteer programs and stakeholder engagement

• Familiarity with CRM or donor management systems

• Cultural competency and the ability to build authentic relationships across diverse communities

• Commitment to civil rights, justice, civic participation, and community empowerment

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly throughout Central and Southern Ohio

• Bachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent professional experience)

Preferred Qualifications

• Existing relationships within Central or Southern Ohio community networks

• Experience with fundraising events, conferences, or galas

• Youth leadership or internship program development

• Experience working with Muslim communities or faith-based organizations

• Experience serving multicultural or historically underserved communities

• Arabic, Somali, or other relevant language skills

• Background in civil rights, advocacy, or community organizing

What Success Looks Like

During your first year, you'll:

• Expand community partnerships throughout the region

• Strengthen donor and supporter engagement

• Build a reliable volunteer network

• Launch or enhance youth leadership and internship programs

• Successfully lead fundraising and community events

• Increase participation across organizational initiatives

• Become a trusted ambassador for the organization throughout Central and Southern Ohio