Public Relations - Community Engagement Specialist Job at Progressive Directions

Description About Us Progressive Directions (PDI) is dedicated to promoting independence, inclusion, and meaningful community engagement for people with disabilities. Through programs like Common Ground Café, Buddy Ball Special Needs Athletic League, and PDI Thrift Store, we create opportunities that make a real difference. If you’re creative, organized, energetic, and passionate about serving others, this role was made for you. Position Summary The Community Engagement Specialist supports the PR and Community Engagement team in promoting a positive public image for PDI and our programs. This dynamic, highly collaborative role blends: Social media management Content creation Event planning Community engagement Administrative coordination Flexible schedule required (will require some evenings and weekends during event times) This is not a desk-only job. You’ll be in the community, behind the camera, at events, online, and helping the VP of PR as needed. What You’ll Be Helping With Social Media Management Create, post, and manage social media content for multiple platforms Develop and manage a proactive social media calendar. Promote PDI, Common Ground Café, Buddy Ball Special Needs Athletic League, and the PDI Thrift Store on local community pages Engage with followers and monitor activity Content Creation Create digital and print marketing materials aligned with PDI’s mission Capture and edit photos and videos (events, human-interest stories, program highlights) Design content for web, social, brochures, newsletters, email blasts, signage, and more Assist with website updates Maintain brand consistency across all platforms Event Coordination Support planning and execution of multiple annual events Assist with logistics: venues, volunteers, catering, RSVPs Capture and publish event highlights Help with setup, décor, and breakdown Community Engagement Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams Build relationships with staff, clients, community leaders, and local businesses Attend and support community and fundraising events Assist with surveys, grants, and public engagement initiatives Buddy Ball Athletic League Support Create hype videos and social content Assist with registration, uniforms, and equipment Help with event setup and breakdown Recognition & Appreciation Programs Manage Employee of the Month program Coordinate appreciation events and service awards Create certificates and recognition materials Administrative Support Manage digital asset organization Research community events and industry trends Assist with inventory and promotional materials Prepare purchase orders, thank-you letters, and donation logs Requirements Experience Minimum 2 years in social media, marketing, nonprofit work, photography/videography, or event planning Experience managing multiple social platforms Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CapCut, or similar tools preferred Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred Fundraising experience is a plus Skills Highly organized and detail-oriented Strong writing and storytelling ability Creative, proactive, and adaptable Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines Strong visual communication skills Requirements Valid unrestricted driver’s license Clear background check and driving record Negative Drug Test Ability to lift up to 40 pounds Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed Work Environment Office-based with significant time in the community Event environments may vary in noise and temperature Why Join PDI? Mission-driven organization making real impact Creative, collaborative team environment Opportunity to tell meaningful stories Community-centered culture Variety in daily work, no two days look the same Our Benefits Competitive pay Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid holidaysOngoing training & professional development Opportunities for advancement Supportive leadership and team environment Progressive Directions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment is at-will. #J-18808-Ljbffr