Positions Title: Communications Associate
Program/Department: Development and Communications
Reports to: Communications Manager
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary: $64,000 – $66,000
About the Role
The Communications Associate will be key in managing and enhancing MSP’s social media presence, creating engaging internal and external content, and supporting various communications initiatives. This position is ideal for a creative individual with extensive social media experience, a keen interest in video content, and strong graphic design and writing skills, preferably in a nonprofit environment. The Communications Associate will report to the Communications Manager and work closely with other team members, especially the Senior Director of Development and Communications, to ensure effective communications across all platforms.
This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of domestic violence survivors and their children by enhancing MSP’s communication efforts and public presence to support its fundraising initiatives.
This is a hybrid position and, expected to be in the office 1-2 days a week.
About My Sister’s Place
My Sister’s Place is a community of staff, volunteers, and advocates committed to eradicating domestic violence. As DC’s oldest domestic violence shelter, we have served as a cornerstone of the district’s response to this pressing public health issue since 1979. MSP is unique in offering a continuum of care from emergency shelter through transitional-to-permanent housing. Our experienced team of case managers and residential counselors provide clinical counseling, case management, and comprehensive services to empower survivors to recover and thrive. MSP also provides training, case consultation, and advocacy to engage communities to prevent violence and abuse.
What You’ll Be Doing
Social Media Management
• Collaborate with the Communications Manager on content creation and strategy across platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, Threads, Bluesky, and emerging channels.
• Manage the social media calendaring and planning process, ensuring consistent and timely content scheduled across all platforms.
• Create, curate, and manage engaging multimedia content (text, image, video) tailored to each platform.
• Monitor and respond to social media interactions, fostering a positive and engaged online community. Forward specific messages or questions to the appropriate people.
• Track and analyze social media performance metrics, adjusting strategies to improve engagement and reach.
Content Creation
• Write and design compelling content for MSP’s educational monthly newsletter in collaboration with other staff.
• Maintain a library of photos, stories, quotes, and branded collateral.
• Produce professional collateral for outreach and fundraising, including one-pagers and promotional materials.
• Support the development and execution of special event collateral and partner outreach materials.
• Stay up to date with domestic violence topics and resources for content creation.
Communications Support
• Assist the Communications Manager in implementing MSP’s communications strategies and goals.
• Support public relations efforts, including media outreach and maintaining relationships with media outlets.
• Help maintain internal and external brand identity through routine updates and creating branded templates, signatures, and business cards.
• Assist with website content and updates. WordPress experience is helpful.
• Oversee list management in Constant Contact.
• Research conferences, community events, and speaking engagement opportunities for executive staff members.
Collaboration
• Work effectively within the Development and Communications team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
• Assist in the planning and coordination of donor appeals through email and digital campaigns.
• Coordinate with various departments to support communication initiatives and ensure seamless interdepartmental workflows with programs and HR teams.
• Assist the Development and Communications team with the execution of the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign and other outreach activities, especially with other organizations and donor events.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
• 2-4 years of experience in communications, with a strong emphasis on social media management and content creation, preferably in a non-profit environment.
• Proficiency in social media platforms and tools, such as Canva, Hootsuite, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Familiarity with social media analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write for different audiences and platforms. Portfolio submission is required with the application. Exceptional attention to detail is required.
• Strong visual and graphic design skills, with a keen eye for detail and aesthetics.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with a proactive approach to problem-solving. The ideal employee is expected to identify priorities and manage their workload independently, with appropriate check-ins.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in non-profit environments, especially those familiar with the nuances of community engagement, and donor communications.
Background Check & Drug Testing Requirements: Employment at My Sister’s Place is contingent upon the successful completion of background checks, including FBI and MPD background checks, TB testing, and a drug test. Additionally, due to grant requirements, employees must maintain updated background checks and screenings as required for their position throughout their employment.
What We’re Looking For
At MSP, we are committed to our core values, which guide our every action and decision. We’re hiring someone who shares our dedication to these values and embodies them in their work:
Demonstrate Professionalism, Integrity, and Excellence: You approach your role with the highest level of professionalism and ethical conduct. You should consistently uphold integrity, demonstrate excellence in your work, and adhere to the highest standards of professionalism.
Support Wellness and Self-care: You understand the importance of self-care and wellness, both for yourself and for the clients we serve. You should promote and model self-care practices and encourage clients to prioritize their well-being.
Provide Person-centered and Trauma-informed Services: We value a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to service delivery. The right candidate should be skilled in empathetic and client-focused interactions, recognizing the unique needs and experiences of each individual.
Foster an Environment of Trust, Transparency, and Respect: Building trust and maintaining transparency and respect in all interactions is paramount to our organization. We are looking for someone who can create a safe and respectful environment for clients and colleagues alike.
Deliver Services Intentionally and Passionately: We seek a candidate who is passionate about helping others and who approaches their role with intentionality. You should be dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of our clients.
My Sister’s Place is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based upon race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.