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United Way Careers

We are on a mission to ensure all Quad Citizens have the opportunity and access to thrive. As part of the United Way team you have the chance to make that happen.

We partner with and support more than 50 local nonprofit service providers, mobilizing a community-wide movement that works to ensure all our neighbors have access to education, income and health — the building blocks of opportunity.

Inspired to make a difference? View our current openings.

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Current Openings

Vice President, Marketing & Strategic Communications

Title: Vice President, Marketing & Strategic Communications
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Chief Strategy Officer
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way Quad Cities is the largest nongovernmental funder in the area, advancing equity and improving education, income, and health outcomes. A vital part of this mission is effectively communicating our work and vision. The Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Communications will be fully responsible for creating, executing, and managing the organization’s comprehensive communications strategy. This role ensures that United Way’s brand, voice, and message are consistently communicated across all channels with purpose, clarity, and impact.

This individual will not only set the strategic direction but also take ownership of execution, ensuring that United Way Quad Cities’ communications efforts are aligned, proactive, and results-driven. The VP will oversee all communications, marketing, and content production efforts, driving awareness and engagement through storytelling, events, and partnerships.

The Vice President will work cross-functionally with departments and teams across the organization, ensuring that communication strategies support and enhance the overall goals of United Way Quad Cities. The VP will collaborate with senior leaders to integrate communications into broader organizational initiatives and drive impact through a unified approach.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Accountability

  • Develop and own the overarching communications and marketing strategy, setting a vision that aligns with United Way’s mission and objectives.
  • Ensure the full execution of the strategy, holding the marketing team accountable for results and providing leadership to ensure consistency and high-quality outcomes.
  • Establish clear performance metrics, regularly assess results, and refine tactics to enhance effectiveness, ensuring that strategic objectives are met.
  • Serve as the primary point of accountability for all communications efforts, driving clarity and alignment across the organization.

Brand & Reputation Management

  • Manage and protect United Way’s brand, ensuring consistency in messaging and positioning across all platforms.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of campaigns that build awareness, deepen engagement, and reinforce United Way’s thought leadership and community impact.
  • Develop crisis communication strategies and act as a key spokesperson when necessary.

Communications & Content Strategy

  • Lead the creation and implementation of all organizational communications and content strategies, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to synthesize United Way’s impact work and vision into compelling, clear messaging and content that resonates with key audiences.
  • Create integrated communications plans that span digital, print, media, and event-based outreach, ensuring that all efforts reinforce key messaging and drive results.

Execution & Day-to-Day Management

  • Oversee the day-to-day management of communications efforts, ensuring that campaigns, content, and messaging are delivered on time, on budget, and with excellence.
  • Lead the production of written, digital, and designed content, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and effective storytelling.
  • Ensure proactive and timely responses to media opportunities, managing relationships with media outlets, influencers, and partners to maximize coverage.
  • Manage social media, web content, newsletters, and other digital channels to ensure United Way remains engaged with its audience.

Team Leadership & Development

  • Lead, coach, and develop the communications and marketing team, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and promoting a culture of accountability and excellence.
  • Provide real-time, constructive feedback to ensure high performance, mentor team members, and support their professional development.
  • Drive a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility across departments, ensuring that communications efforts are cohesive and aligned.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Work closely with the Resource Development team to understand donor segments and communication needs, ensuring strategies that resonate with key audiences such as workplace campaigns, high-net-worth individuals, and corporate donors.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including media, community partners, and donors, to enhance the organization’s visibility and credibility.
  • Create and manage opportunities for the leadership team and experts to engage with the public through media outlets, speaking engagements, and written contributions.

Data-Driven Decision Making

  • Utilize analytics and data to track the performance of communications efforts, adjusting tactics based on insights and feedback.
  • Leverage data to optimize campaign strategies, improve audience engagement, and increase the effectiveness of communications.

Essential Job Functions:

Communications & Content Strategy Execution

  • Lead the implementation of strategies for all communications channels, including digital, social media, events, and earned media.
  • Ensure that all content—written, digital, and visual—aligns with the organization’s strategic goals and effectively communicates its impact.
  • Work in collaboration with external vendors and consultants when necessary to enhance the reach and effectiveness of communications efforts.

Earned Media & External Relations

  • Cultivate relationships with media outlets and influencers to secure earned media opportunities, ensuring United Way is positioned as a leader in community issues.
  • Identify key opportunities for staff and leadership to engage with the media, ensuring they are prepared and equipped with strategic messaging.

Internal Communications

  • Serve as a key partner to executive leadership, ensuring that internal communications are strategic, timely, and foster alignment across the organization.
  • Work with Human Resources and senior leadership to ensure internal messaging connects team members across all departments to the organizational vision.

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Core Values for All Employees:

  • Passionate. We strongly believe in what we do and how we do it. Our enthusiasm, grit and energy are contagious, inspiring those around us.
  • Relentless. Every day, in everything we do, we are driven to deliver top quality and approach every challenge with a determination to succeed. We attempt to be our best selves and deliver the best as our benefactors and donors deserve it.
  • Problem Solving. We believe innovation matters in every part of our work. We never give up seeking new and creative ways to solve tough community problems and to make it easy for our donors to give and make an impact.
  • Grateful. We are humble, we are grateful and we show it. We are thankful for each other, every donor, partnership, volunteer, advocate and every opportunity we have to improve lives and our community.

Education/Training:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of senior-level experience leading communications, marketing, or brand strategy in a complex organization.
  • Demonstrated experience in owning a strategic communications vision and ensuring its successful execution across an organization.
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, align, and hold a team accountable.
  • Proven experience managing digital, social, and traditional media campaigns.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into compelling, audience-specific messaging.
  • Proficiency in data-driven decision making, with a track record of using analytics to improve communications outcomes.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Strategic Thinking & Execution: Ability to set a clear vision and see it through to execution, ensuring that strategic goals are met.
  • Accountability: Takes full ownership of communications, ensuring the team delivers on objectives.
  • Leadership: Demonstrates strong team management, mentorship, and the ability to foster a culture of excellence.
  • Communication: Skilled in crafting compelling, clear, and effective messaging for diverse audiences.
  • Proactive & Results-Driven: Takes initiative, ensures communications are timely and aligned, and constantly seeks to improve results.
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license and proof of insurance is required.
  • Ability to work a flexible work schedule including evenings and weekends.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Volunteer & Events Manager

Title: Volunteer & Events Manager
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Vice President, Corporate Relations
FLSA Classification: Exempt

Download Job Description

Position Summary

United Way is social change organization that unites the community to create access and opportunity for everyone in the Quad Cities to thrive. We believe in the power of unity and equity to bring lasting change. We unite leading corporations, foundation, individuals, nonprofits, school districts and more to achieve measurable outcomes and create truly transformation change across the Quad Cities.

The Volunteer & Events Manager is a strategic, dynamic and detail-oriented leader responsible for driving volunteer engagement initiatives and executing impactful events that support and advance the United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) mission of mobilizing people and resources to improve lives.

This position plays a vital role in designing and executing memorable, impactful events and volunteer opportunities that strengthen the United Way brand, deepen donor engagement, foster meaningful connections, and align with the donor journey to drive revenue and participation.

In a role that allocates approximately 70% of your time to cultivating and bringing to life volunteer initiatives, and the remaining 30% to orchestrating events that carry deep significance, you assume a pivotal position in propelling our work.

The position requires energy, creativity and ability to collaborate with a diverse team of professionals, including peers within the organization and with donors, volunteers, community, business and civic leaders in the Quad Cities. Strong project management skills and attention to detail are key.

Essential Job Functions

Corporate Volunteer Engagement

  • Create mission-driven volunteer opportunities that connect donors and partners to the organization’s measurable impact in the community.
  • Continuously assess volunteer needs in collaboration with internal and external partners.
  • Prioritize volunteer projects based on scalability and alignment with community needs.
  • Design and execute a strategic, year-round volunteer engagement plan with the portfolio of UWQC corporate partners.
  • Develop enriching volunteer experiences that align with the organization’s mission.
  • Lead volunteer engagement strategies for corporate partners, both existing and potential.
  • Oversee volunteer onboarding process, ensuring effective communication and training.
  • Create recognition and appreciation programs to celebrate volunteer contributions.
  • Track event and volunteer participation data, using insights to refine strategies and improve future experiences.

Strategic Event Planning/Management

  • Plan and execute impactful events, such as donor appreciation gatherings and community showcases, that are strongly branded, inspire giving and align with organizational priorities.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners for seamless event logistics.
  • Lead and execute fundraising and volunteer events, including planning, promotion, and implementation.
  • Develop clear event objectives and timelines, adjusting plans as needed.
  • Communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, and partners regarding event details.
  • Deliver timely, personalized follow-up communication to event attendees, fostering stronger relationships and encouraging further action.
  • Conduct post-event assessments and surveys to inform future event improvements.

Relationship Building

  • Cultivate strong relationships with corporate partners, community leaders, and volunteers.
  • Collaborate closely with the VP of Corporate Relations and Resource Development Team to align volunteer opportunities with corporate partner’s social responsibility goals.
  • Foster partnerships with community and corporate organizations to create impactful volunteer projects.
  • Provide exceptional customer service to corporate and nonprofit partners, employees, and community members.

Communication and Promotion

  • Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to promote diverse volunteer opportunities.
  • Ensure consistent branding and messaging to support volunteer recruitment and retention efforts.
  • Develop compelling event promotion materials, scripts, and communications assets.
  • Maintain open communication channels with staff, volunteers, and partners regarding key events.

Data Management and Reporting

  • Create data-driven dashboards to track volunteer engagement metrics.
  • Analyze quantitative insights on volunteer and donor trends.
  • Generate volunteer impact reports for partners and stakeholders.
  • Leverage and expand use of our Volunteer Hub.
  • Maintain accurate records of volunteer engagement and event data.

Budget Management

  • Prepare and manage budgets for volunteer projects and events.
  • Ensure cost-effective event planning and execution while adhering to budget limits.

Community Engagement and Impact & Innovation and Continuous Improvement

  • Drive innovative ideas and concepts for volunteer projects and events.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to enhance the volunteer and event experience.
  • Implement lessons learned from post-event assessments to improve future events.
  • Create volunteer opportunities that address critical community needs.
  • Ensure that volunteer projects contribute positively to the organization’s mission and goals.

Team Collaboration & Professional Development

  • Collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams to align efforts and achieve shared goals.
  • Stay informed about industry best practices in volunteer engagement and event management.

Requirements

Education/Training

Bachelor’s degree in Events Management, Communications, Public Relations, Volunteer Engagement or a related field OR a combination of education and at least one year of event or project management experience.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Strong event planning and organizational skills with attention to detail for events ranging in size from 20 to 1000+ attendees and duration from one to two hours to full day events.
  • Ability to lead and manage volunteers and volunteer groups, maintain engagement and motivation, enthusiasm of volunteers.
  • Ability to collaborate with other departments, agencies and peers to reach common goals.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent project management skills with the ability to exercise independent judgment and critical thinking, as well as establish metrics to effectively track progress.
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills with a positive customer service focused attitude with the ability to infuse stellar internal and external customer service into all activities.
  • Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and in a flexible environment.
  • Ability to work professionally and diplomatically with a variety of community members.
  • Ability to function effectively in a fast paced and changing work environment.
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. I have read this job description and understand it and have received a copy.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Vice President, Marketing & Strategic Communications

Title: Vice President, Marketing & Strategic Communications
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Chief Strategy Officer
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way Quad Cities is the largest nongovernmental funder in the area, advancing equity and improving education, income, and health outcomes. A vital part of this mission is effectively communicating our work and vision. The Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Communications will be fully responsible for creating, executing, and managing the organization’s comprehensive communications strategy. This role ensures that United Way’s brand, voice, and message are consistently communicated across all channels with purpose, clarity, and impact.

This individual will not only set the strategic direction but also take ownership of execution, ensuring that United Way Quad Cities’ communications efforts are aligned, proactive, and results-driven. The VP will oversee all communications, marketing, and content production efforts, driving awareness and engagement through storytelling, events, and partnerships.

The Vice President will work cross-functionally with departments and teams across the organization, ensuring that communication strategies support and enhance the overall goals of United Way Quad Cities. The VP will collaborate with senior leaders to integrate communications into broader organizational initiatives and drive impact through a unified approach.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Accountability

  • Develop and own the overarching communications and marketing strategy, setting a vision that aligns with United Way’s mission and objectives.
  • Ensure the full execution of the strategy, holding the marketing team accountable for results and providing leadership to ensure consistency and high-quality outcomes.
  • Establish clear performance metrics, regularly assess results, and refine tactics to enhance effectiveness, ensuring that strategic objectives are met.
  • Serve as the primary point of accountability for all communications efforts, driving clarity and alignment across the organization.

Brand & Reputation Management

  • Manage and protect United Way’s brand, ensuring consistency in messaging and positioning across all platforms.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of campaigns that build awareness, deepen engagement, and reinforce United Way’s thought leadership and community impact.
  • Develop crisis communication strategies and act as a key spokesperson when necessary.

Communications & Content Strategy

  • Lead the creation and implementation of all organizational communications and content strategies, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to synthesize United Way’s impact work and vision into compelling, clear messaging and content that resonates with key audiences.
  • Create integrated communications plans that span digital, print, media, and event-based outreach, ensuring that all efforts reinforce key messaging and drive results.

Execution & Day-to-Day Management

  • Oversee the day-to-day management of communications efforts, ensuring that campaigns, content, and messaging are delivered on time, on budget, and with excellence.
  • Lead the production of written, digital, and designed content, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and effective storytelling.
  • Ensure proactive and timely responses to media opportunities, managing relationships with media outlets, influencers, and partners to maximize coverage.
  • Manage social media, web content, newsletters, and other digital channels to ensure United Way remains engaged with its audience.

Team Leadership & Development

  • Lead, coach, and develop the communications and marketing team, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and promoting a culture of accountability and excellence.
  • Provide real-time, constructive feedback to ensure high performance, mentor team members, and support their professional development.
  • Drive a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility across departments, ensuring that communications efforts are cohesive and aligned.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Work closely with the Resource Development team to understand donor segments and communication needs, ensuring strategies that resonate with key audiences such as workplace campaigns, high-net-worth individuals, and corporate donors.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including media, community partners, and donors, to enhance the organization’s visibility and credibility.
  • Create and manage opportunities for the leadership team and experts to engage with the public through media outlets, speaking engagements, and written contributions.

Data-Driven Decision Making

  • Utilize analytics and data to track the performance of communications efforts, adjusting tactics based on insights and feedback.
  • Leverage data to optimize campaign strategies, improve audience engagement, and increase the effectiveness of communications.

Essential Job Functions:

Communications & Content Strategy Execution

  • Lead the implementation of strategies for all communications channels, including digital, social media, events, and earned media.
  • Ensure that all content—written, digital, and visual—aligns with the organization’s strategic goals and effectively communicates its impact.
  • Work in collaboration with external vendors and consultants when necessary to enhance the reach and effectiveness of communications efforts.

Earned Media & External Relations

  • Cultivate relationships with media outlets and influencers to secure earned media opportunities, ensuring United Way is positioned as a leader in community issues.
  • Identify key opportunities for staff and leadership to engage with the media, ensuring they are prepared and equipped with strategic messaging.

Internal Communications

  • Serve as a key partner to executive leadership, ensuring that internal communications are strategic, timely, and foster alignment across the organization.
  • Work with Human Resources and senior leadership to ensure internal messaging connects team members across all departments to the organizational vision.

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Core Values for All Employees:

  • Passionate. We strongly believe in what we do and how we do it. Our enthusiasm, grit and energy are contagious, inspiring those around us.
  • Relentless. Every day, in everything we do, we are driven to deliver top quality and approach every challenge with a determination to succeed. We attempt to be our best selves and deliver the best as our benefactors and donors deserve it.
  • Problem Solving. We believe innovation matters in every part of our work. We never give up seeking new and creative ways to solve tough community problems and to make it easy for our donors to give and make an impact.
  • Grateful. We are humble, we are grateful and we show it. We are thankful for each other, every donor, partnership, volunteer, advocate and every opportunity we have to improve lives and our community.

Education/Training:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of senior-level experience leading communications, marketing, or brand strategy in a complex organization.
  • Demonstrated experience in owning a strategic communications vision and ensuring its successful execution across an organization.
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, align, and hold a team accountable.
  • Proven experience managing digital, social, and traditional media campaigns.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into compelling, audience-specific messaging.
  • Proficiency in data-driven decision making, with a track record of using analytics to improve communications outcomes.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Strategic Thinking & Execution: Ability to set a clear vision and see it through to execution, ensuring that strategic goals are met.
  • Accountability: Takes full ownership of communications, ensuring the team delivers on objectives.
  • Leadership: Demonstrates strong team management, mentorship, and the ability to foster a culture of excellence.
  • Communication: Skilled in crafting compelling, clear, and effective messaging for diverse audiences.
  • Proactive & Results-Driven: Takes initiative, ensures communications are timely and aligned, and constantly seeks to improve results.
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license and proof of insurance is required.
  • Ability to work a flexible work schedule including evenings and weekends.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Marketing Manager

Title: Marketing Manager
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Vice President, Communications
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative
Supervises: N/A

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way is the largest nongovernmental funder in the Quad Cities, responsible for private investments into programs that advance equity and improve education, income and health outcomes.

The Marketing Manager supports and advances the United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) mission of mobilizing people and resources to improve lives by serving as our chief storyteller by creating innovative campaigns, crafting powerful stories, and delivering world-class experiences to help our region – along with our community of supporters, become more aware of the education, financial security and health challenges right here at home and inspire them to join us in our mission to solve them.

The successful Marketing Manager will love to write authentic, persuasive and inspiring content that brings UWQC’s impact to life through their words. They will also have a deep understanding of social media and digital marketing trends and will be eager to take creative risks to help us grow.

The Marketing Manager is accountable for the following functions:

  • Developing and executing creative Marketing Strategies, that connect with our various audiences, and develop new ways to engage donors and prospects.
  • Leading Content Development and Storytelling efforts through user-generated content, testimonials, following story leads, and conducting interviews with a diverse pool of stakeholders, partners and service recipients.
  • Owning the Social Media roadmap, strategy and execution, while maintaining a weekly calendar, engaging followers and cultivating audiences.
  • Driving digital strategies, setting KPIs and provide ongoing analysis and reporting to cross-functional teams.
  • Partnering with resource development and impact teams to brainstorm and generate ideas that advance Brand Awareness.

Essential Job Functions:

Marketing Strategy:

  • Developing and executing organizational marketing strategy.
  • Increasing traffic to drive monthly and one-time donations.
  • Identifying prospective investor audiences and/or communities to drive awareness and participation in our mission.
  • Working cross-functionally to understand donor journeys and optimize the experience for audience retention and acquisition.
  • Interpreting data and trends to inform a successful donor acquisition strategy and execution.
  • Effectively communicating insights to identify lead generation and upsell opportunities to build and retain our donor base.
  • Guide and execute new micro-communication campaigns and overall digital implementation efforts.

Storytelling and Message Development:

  • Responsible for finding and creating compelling, persuasive stories of lives improved because of UWQC work
  • Collaborate with Impact and Resource Development teams to share our story on a larger scale with excellent consistency.
  • Articulate UWQC’s impact using relevant data and trends in compelling ways that inspire action and investment.
  • Work closely with internal teams to produce authentic, relevant and excellent brand assets.

Communications and Development:

  • Develop and implement lifecycle [donor journey] marketing strategy that optimizes the experience for audience development, acquisition and retention.
  • Creating, scheduling and managing social media across all platforms and facilitating internal planning.
  • Cultivating photography and videography library for usage in digital platforms and print collateral.
  • Schedule marketing project timelines, meetings, interviews, photo and video shoots, and more.
  • Monitors and updates communications project plans, action sheets, social media calendars.
  • Source, develop and pitch stories, media releases, media alerts to news outlets and publications.
  • Assist staff with preparation for media interviews.

Competencies for Marketing Manager:

  • Strategic thinker with the ability to execute on deadline
  • Great communicator
  • Organized and detail oriented
  • Creative and knowledgeable on digital communication & analysis
  • Adaptable and flexible

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Requirements:

Education/Training:

At least 3-5 years of experience in content development, strategy or digital marketing role with a proven track record in driving user engagement, acquisition and revenue growth.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Experience in digital marketing role, content development, social media management, web CMS are pluses
  • A grasp and ability to utilize analytics to drive successful program development
  • Demonstrated ability to apply logical thought processing to problem solve and recommend solutions
  • Project management skills and ability to balance competing priorities
  • Ability to build and manage budgets and negotiate with vendors
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Vice President, Marketing & Strategic Communications

Title: Vice President, Marketing & Strategic Communications
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Chief Strategy Officer
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way Quad Cities is the largest nongovernmental funder in the area, advancing equity and improving education, income, and health outcomes. A vital part of this mission is effectively communicating our work and vision. The Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Communications will be fully responsible for creating, executing, and managing the organization’s comprehensive communications strategy. This role ensures that United Way’s brand, voice, and message are consistently communicated across all channels with purpose, clarity, and impact.

This individual will not only set the strategic direction but also take ownership of execution, ensuring that United Way Quad Cities’ communications efforts are aligned, proactive, and results-driven. The VP will oversee all communications, marketing, and content production efforts, driving awareness and engagement through storytelling, events, and partnerships.

The Vice President will work cross-functionally with departments and teams across the organization, ensuring that communication strategies support and enhance the overall goals of United Way Quad Cities. The VP will collaborate with senior leaders to integrate communications into broader organizational initiatives and drive impact through a unified approach.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Accountability

  • Develop and own the overarching communications and marketing strategy, setting a vision that aligns with United Way’s mission and objectives.
  • Ensure the full execution of the strategy, holding the marketing team accountable for results and providing leadership to ensure consistency and high-quality outcomes.
  • Establish clear performance metrics, regularly assess results, and refine tactics to enhance effectiveness, ensuring that strategic objectives are met.
  • Serve as the primary point of accountability for all communications efforts, driving clarity and alignment across the organization.

Brand & Reputation Management

  • Manage and protect United Way’s brand, ensuring consistency in messaging and positioning across all platforms.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of campaigns that build awareness, deepen engagement, and reinforce United Way’s thought leadership and community impact.
  • Develop crisis communication strategies and act as a key spokesperson when necessary.

Communications & Content Strategy

  • Lead the creation and implementation of all organizational communications and content strategies, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to synthesize United Way’s impact work and vision into compelling, clear messaging and content that resonates with key audiences.
  • Create integrated communications plans that span digital, print, media, and event-based outreach, ensuring that all efforts reinforce key messaging and drive results.

Execution & Day-to-Day Management

  • Oversee the day-to-day management of communications efforts, ensuring that campaigns, content, and messaging are delivered on time, on budget, and with excellence.
  • Lead the production of written, digital, and designed content, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and effective storytelling.
  • Ensure proactive and timely responses to media opportunities, managing relationships with media outlets, influencers, and partners to maximize coverage.
  • Manage social media, web content, newsletters, and other digital channels to ensure United Way remains engaged with its audience.

Team Leadership & Development

  • Lead, coach, and develop the communications and marketing team, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and promoting a culture of accountability and excellence.
  • Provide real-time, constructive feedback to ensure high performance, mentor team members, and support their professional development.
  • Drive a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility across departments, ensuring that communications efforts are cohesive and aligned.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Work closely with the Resource Development team to understand donor segments and communication needs, ensuring strategies that resonate with key audiences such as workplace campaigns, high-net-worth individuals, and corporate donors.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including media, community partners, and donors, to enhance the organization’s visibility and credibility.
  • Create and manage opportunities for the leadership team and experts to engage with the public through media outlets, speaking engagements, and written contributions.

Data-Driven Decision Making

  • Utilize analytics and data to track the performance of communications efforts, adjusting tactics based on insights and feedback.
  • Leverage data to optimize campaign strategies, improve audience engagement, and increase the effectiveness of communications.

Essential Job Functions:

Communications & Content Strategy Execution

  • Lead the implementation of strategies for all communications channels, including digital, social media, events, and earned media.
  • Ensure that all content—written, digital, and visual—aligns with the organization’s strategic goals and effectively communicates its impact.
  • Work in collaboration with external vendors and consultants when necessary to enhance the reach and effectiveness of communications efforts.

Earned Media & External Relations

  • Cultivate relationships with media outlets and influencers to secure earned media opportunities, ensuring United Way is positioned as a leader in community issues.
  • Identify key opportunities for staff and leadership to engage with the media, ensuring they are prepared and equipped with strategic messaging.

Internal Communications

  • Serve as a key partner to executive leadership, ensuring that internal communications are strategic, timely, and foster alignment across the organization.
  • Work with Human Resources and senior leadership to ensure internal messaging connects team members across all departments to the organizational vision.

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Core Values for All Employees:

  • Passionate. We strongly believe in what we do and how we do it. Our enthusiasm, grit and energy are contagious, inspiring those around us.
  • Relentless. Every day, in everything we do, we are driven to deliver top quality and approach every challenge with a determination to succeed. We attempt to be our best selves and deliver the best as our benefactors and donors deserve it.
  • Problem Solving. We believe innovation matters in every part of our work. We never give up seeking new and creative ways to solve tough community problems and to make it easy for our donors to give and make an impact.
  • Grateful. We are humble, we are grateful and we show it. We are thankful for each other, every donor, partnership, volunteer, advocate and every opportunity we have to improve lives and our community.

Education/Training:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of senior-level experience leading communications, marketing, or brand strategy in a complex organization.
  • Demonstrated experience in owning a strategic communications vision and ensuring its successful execution across an organization.
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, align, and hold a team accountable.
  • Proven experience managing digital, social, and traditional media campaigns.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into compelling, audience-specific messaging.
  • Proficiency in data-driven decision making, with a track record of using analytics to improve communications outcomes.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Strategic Thinking & Execution: Ability to set a clear vision and see it through to execution, ensuring that strategic goals are met.
  • Accountability: Takes full ownership of communications, ensuring the team delivers on objectives.
  • Leadership: Demonstrates strong team management, mentorship, and the ability to foster a culture of excellence.
  • Communication: Skilled in crafting compelling, clear, and effective messaging for diverse audiences.
  • Proactive & Results-Driven: Takes initiative, ensures communications are timely and aligned, and constantly seeks to improve results.
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license and proof of insurance is required.
  • Ability to work a flexible work schedule including evenings and weekends.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Marketing Manager

Title: Marketing Manager
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Vice President, Communications
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative
Supervises: N/A

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way is the largest nongovernmental funder in the Quad Cities, responsible for private investments into programs that advance equity and improve education, income and health outcomes.

The Marketing Manager supports and advances the United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) mission of mobilizing people and resources to improve lives by serving as our chief storyteller by creating innovative campaigns, crafting powerful stories, and delivering world-class experiences to help our region – along with our community of supporters, become more aware of the education, financial security and health challenges right here at home and inspire them to join us in our mission to solve them.

The successful Marketing Manager will love to write authentic, persuasive and inspiring content that brings UWQC’s impact to life through their words. They will also have a deep understanding of social media and digital marketing trends and will be eager to take creative risks to help us grow.

The Marketing Manager is accountable for the following functions:

  • Developing and executing creative Marketing Strategies, that connect with our various audiences, and develop new ways to engage donors and prospects.
  • Leading Content Development and Storytelling efforts through user-generated content, testimonials, following story leads, and conducting interviews with a diverse pool of stakeholders, partners and service recipients.
  • Owning the Social Media roadmap, strategy and execution, while maintaining a weekly calendar, engaging followers and cultivating audiences.
  • Driving digital strategies, setting KPIs and provide ongoing analysis and reporting to cross-functional teams.
  • Partnering with resource development and impact teams to brainstorm and generate ideas that advance Brand Awareness.

Essential Job Functions:

Marketing Strategy:

  • Developing and executing organizational marketing strategy.
  • Increasing traffic to drive monthly and one-time donations.
  • Identifying prospective investor audiences and/or communities to drive awareness and participation in our mission.
  • Working cross-functionally to understand donor journeys and optimize the experience for audience retention and acquisition.
  • Interpreting data and trends to inform a successful donor acquisition strategy and execution.
  • Effectively communicating insights to identify lead generation and upsell opportunities to build and retain our donor base.
  • Guide and execute new micro-communication campaigns and overall digital implementation efforts.

Storytelling and Message Development:

  • Responsible for finding and creating compelling, persuasive stories of lives improved because of UWQC work
  • Collaborate with Impact and Resource Development teams to share our story on a larger scale with excellent consistency.
  • Articulate UWQC’s impact using relevant data and trends in compelling ways that inspire action and investment.
  • Work closely with internal teams to produce authentic, relevant and excellent brand assets.

Communications and Development:

  • Develop and implement lifecycle [donor journey] marketing strategy that optimizes the experience for audience development, acquisition and retention.
  • Creating, scheduling and managing social media across all platforms and facilitating internal planning.
  • Cultivating photography and videography library for usage in digital platforms and print collateral.
  • Schedule marketing project timelines, meetings, interviews, photo and video shoots, and more.
  • Monitors and updates communications project plans, action sheets, social media calendars.
  • Source, develop and pitch stories, media releases, media alerts to news outlets and publications.
  • Assist staff with preparation for media interviews.

Competencies for Marketing Manager:

  • Strategic thinker with the ability to execute on deadline
  • Great communicator
  • Organized and detail oriented
  • Creative and knowledgeable on digital communication & analysis
  • Adaptable and flexible

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Requirements:

Education/Training:

At least 3-5 years of experience in content development, strategy or digital marketing role with a proven track record in driving user engagement, acquisition and revenue growth.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Experience in digital marketing role, content development, social media management, web CMS are pluses
  • A grasp and ability to utilize analytics to drive successful program development
  • Demonstrated ability to apply logical thought processing to problem solve and recommend solutions
  • Project management skills and ability to balance competing priorities
  • Ability to build and manage budgets and negotiate with vendors
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

United for Schools Site Coordinator - Rock Island Academy

Title: United for Schools Site Coordinator — Rock Island Academy
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Student Success Director
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative
Supervises: N/A

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way is a leading nonprofit organization in the Quad Cities region. We are committed to making a positive impact in our community by investing in programs that enhance education income, health and promote equity. Our mission is to mobilize people and resource to improve lives and create a community where everyone can access quality education, secure a good job, and enjoy a health life.

The United for Schools Site Coordinator plays a pivotal role in advancing the United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) mission through collaboration, community activation and targeted initiatives at partner Title 1 public schools.

As the Site Coordinator, this individual will be dedicated to accelerating student achievement and empowerment in Rock Island Academy, Rock Island. He/She will foster meaningful partnerships with school staff, service providers, businesses, faith-based organizations and engaged individuals and groups to create a powerful network of support for students, ensuring they receive the resources and opportunities necessary for success.

The Site Coordinator working at Rock Island Academy is responsible for implementation of integrated student services, wrap-around support and intervention plans in partnership with Rock Island-Milan Community School District. The Site Coordinator will work directly with students and families to improve attendance, academics, and behavior, connecting school content to real world experiences, reinforcing positive patterns, character development, and discovering intrinsic motivation.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Build and lead a school support team that collaborates with school administrators, teachers, and support staff in the implementation of the Communities In Schools Model. This process will include the building and nurturing of school staff relations, relationships between school and community, and the engagement of volunteers for the delivery of services, as well as leading the school support team in end-of-grading period and end-of-year reporting.
  • Lead the annual CIS school needs assessment process. This process ensures the creation of a robust school needs assessment that includes data from overall school improvement initiatives, surveys, and discussions with staff, parents and students, and results from the previous year.
  • Lead the development and implementation of the CIS school support plan. The plan will contain a measurable CIS-specific goal that clearly helps support the achievement of at least one goal in the school improvement plan. It will clearly outline plans for delivering school wide Tier I supports, targeted small group Tier II supports, and individualized Tier III supports aligned with this goal and student goals. It will also outline a process for monitoring, adjusting and evaluating and reporting program effectiveness.
  • Maintain a student caseload. Ensure that students referred for caseload have needs and goals that align with the overall school goal. Conduct individual needs assessments, develop Individual student support plans, and coordinate the delivery of tiered supports to students on caseload. Monitor and adjust services based on data, document goal achievement.
  • Lead the monitoring and adjustment of services. Lead the school support team in the systematic collection of program data, regularly monitoring, and adjusting services as needed.
  • Participate in school-wide events, functions and duties as available and appropriate to role.
  • Coordinate the scheduling, implementation and follow up for United Way education supports offered in the building.
  • Build strong relationships with students, teachers and administrator.
  • Establish and maintain relationships within the community that benefit the school and students.
  • Actively engage stakeholders to support program planning and act as an advocate for students to encourage program participation and student achievement.
  • Model and utilize best practices for family engagement to increase parent involvement and connectivity.
  • Ensure that data is collected, monitor and analyze outcomes related to school goals and benchmarks of United for Schools determined in UFS Action Plan, such as: attendance, student discipline referrals, academic achievement, parental involvement, and program effectiveness.
  • Prepare routine impact reports highlighting accomplishments and progress towards shared goals with school, investors, volunteers and community partners.
  • Analyze data to guide ongoing individual service delivery and programmatic evaluations.
  • Effectively manage resources, including program site budget, volunteers, partners, grants, and meeting all reporting requirements.
  • Manage the recruitment, orientation and training of service provider and volunteers.
  • Provide timely and ongoing recognition for investors, volunteers and partners.

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Requirements:

Education/Training:

Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of equivalent experience in education, social work or related fields.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Ability to leverage develop strong relationships with community partners and school staff to achieve goals.
  • Ability to respond to the needs of students and to meet those needs using measures that are appropriate and understandable.
  • Ability to react quickly and adapt to changing situations with minimum disruption.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize effectively.
  • Experience in coordinating efforts and collaborating with variety of stakeholders for a shared agenda.
  • Knowledge of community assessment and planning principles and methods.
  • Excellent writing, editing, verbal, and presentation skills.
  • Proficiency with MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

United for Schools Site Coordinator - Wells Elementary School

Title: United for Schools Site Coordinator — Wells Elementary School
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Student Success Director
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative
Supervises: N/A

Download Job Description

Position Summary:

United Way is a leading nonprofit organization in the Quad Cities region. We are committed to making a positive impact in our community by investing in programs that enhance education income, health and promote equity. Our mission is to mobilize people and resource to improve lives and create a community where everyone can access quality education, secure a good job, and enjoy a health life.

The United for Schools Site Coordinator plays a pivotal role in advancing the United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) mission through collaboration, community activation and targeted initiatives at partner Title 1 public schools.

As the Site Coordinator, this individual will be dedicated to accelerating student achievement and empowerment in Wells Elementary School, East Moline. He/She will foster meaningful partnerships with school staff, service providers, businesses, faith-based organizations and engaged individuals and groups to create a powerful network of support for students, ensuring they receive the resources and opportunities necessary for success.

The Site Coordinator working at Wells is responsible for implementation of integrated student services, wrap-around support and intervention plans in partnership with East Moline School District, academics, and behavior, connecting school content to real world experiences, reinforcing positive patterns, character development, and discovering intrinsic motivation.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Build and lead a school support team that collaborates with school administrators, teachers, and support staff in the implementation of the Communities In Schools Model. This process will include the building and nurturing of school staff relations, relationships between school and community, and the engagement of volunteers for the delivery of services, as well as leading the school support team in end-of-grading period and end-of-year reporting.
  • Lead the annual CIS school needs assessment process. This process ensures the creation of a robust school needs assessment that includes data from overall school improvement initiatives, surveys, and discussions with staff, parents and students, and results from the previous year.
  • Lead the development and implementation of the CIS school support plan. The plan will contain a measurable CIS-specific goal that clearly helps support the achievement of at least one goal in the school improvement plan. It will clearly outline plans for delivering school wide Tier I supports, targeted small group Tier II supports, and individualized Tier III supports aligned with this goal and student goals. It will also outline a process for monitoring, adjusting and evaluating and reporting program effectiveness.
  • Maintain a student caseload. Ensure that students referred for caseload have needs and goals that align with the overall school goal. Conduct individual needs assessments, develop Individual student support plans, and coordinate the delivery of tiered supports to students on caseload. Monitor and adjust services based on data, document goal achievement.
  • Lead the monitoring and adjustment of services. Lead the school support team in the systematic collection of program data, regularly monitoring, and adjusting services as needed.
  • Participate in school-wide events, functions and duties as available and appropriate to role.
  • Coordinate the scheduling, implementation and follow up for United Way education supports offered in the building.
  • Build strong relationships with students, teachers and administrator.
  • Establish and maintain relationships within the community that benefit the school and students.
  • Actively engage stakeholders to support program planning and act as an advocate for students to encourage program participation and student achievement.
  • Model and utilize best practices for family engagement to increase parent involvement and connectivity.
  • Ensure that data is collected, monitor and analyze outcomes related to school goals and benchmarks of United for Schools determined in UFS Action Plan, such as: attendance, student discipline referrals, academic achievement, parental involvement, and program effectiveness.
  • Prepare routine impact reports highlighting accomplishments and progress towards shared goals with school, investors, volunteers and community partners.
  • Analyze data to guide ongoing individual service delivery and programmatic evaluations.
  • Effectively manage resources, including program site budget, volunteers, partners, grants, and meeting all reporting requirements.
  • Manage the recruitment, orientation and training of service provider and volunteers.
  • Provide timely and ongoing recognition for investors, volunteers and partners.

Competencies for all Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Requirements:

Education/Training:

Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of equivalent experience in education, social work or related fields.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Ability to leverage develop strong relationships with community partners and school staff to achieve goals.
  • Ability to respond to the needs of students and to meet those needs using measures that are appropriate and understandable.
  • Ability to react quickly and adapt to changing situations with minimum disruption.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize effectively.
  • Experience in coordinating efforts and collaborating with variety of stakeholders for a shared agenda.
  • Knowledge of community assessment and planning principles and methods.
  • Excellent writing, editing, verbal, and presentation skills.
  • Proficiency with MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Emerging Leaders Director

Title: Emerging Leaders Director
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Chief Strategy Officer
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative

Download Job Description

United Way Quad Cities is a leading nonprofit organization in the Quad Cities region. We are committed to making a positive impact on our community by investing in programs that enhance education, income, health, and promote equity. Our mission is to mobilize people and resources to improve lives and create a community where everyone can access quality education, secure a good job, and enjoy a healthy life.

The Emerging Leaders Director supports and advances the United Way Quad Cities (UWQC) mission of mobilizing people and resources to improve lives by growing engagement and increasing revenue growth for the Emerging Leaders (ELQC) donor network.

Emerging Leaders Quad Cities (ELQC)

Emerging Leaders is a UWQC donor network of young leaders, creatives and philanthropists who work together to solve big community problems, while showcasing the Quad Cities as a dynamic place to build your life, raise your family and grow your career.

As tomorrow’s community leaders and as the most influential generation in America, our QC Emerging Leaders will set the standard for generations to come.  An ambitious group of individuals with common goals of growth and giving back, Emerging Leaders hope to motivate and support others to be leaders and succeed.

The Emerging Leader Director is accountable for the following functions:

  • Cultivating meaningful connections with donors and volunteers.
  • Maintain Routine Communication with Members and Donors: Regularly update and engage members and donors through personalized emails, newsletters, and social media, ensuring they are informed about the network’s activities, events, and impact.
  • Recruit New Members and Raise Funds: Proactively identify, reach out to, and recruit potential new members for the Emerging Leaders donor network, while also developing and implementing effective fundraising strategies to support the network’s goals and initiatives.
  • Creating special events and volunteer opportunities to increase engagement of Emerging Leaders in conjunction with the Volunteer & Events Manager.

Essential Job Functions

Strategy Development and Implementation
Serve as the staff manager and director for Emerging Leaders (EL), developing and implementing strategies to deepen meaningful connections with donors and volunteers and build QC leadership capacity. Specific activities include:

  • Provide strategic direction to the EL committee: plan meetings, recruit new members, and staff events.
  • Create/update and manage the work plans.
  • Manage EL donor network budget to include the advertising, events and other costs associated with group’s management.
  • Lead in efforts to achieve measurable goals designed to expand and deepen membership engagement.
  • Develop, test, promote and periodically refresh value-added EL membership portfolios.
  • Collaborate with other resource development staff in acquiring new members.
  • Prepare data-based reports to measure progress and drive future success and develop suggestions to further the effectiveness of the network’s activities and strategies.

Strategic Communications
Communicate clearly, regularly and effectively with advisory committee members and all volunteers and investors of EL to raise awareness, demonstrate impact, inspire enthusiasm and a build a sense of community. Specific activities include:

  • Prepare and distribute an appropriately branded quarterly e-newsletter for each donor network to enhance communication with member investors, prospects and volunteers, building their relationship with UWQC.
  • Coordinate or lead, when appropriate, creation of accurate and branded collateral for EL
  • Coordinate and lead regular advisory committee meetings for EL
  • Work with the Marketing department to develop/oversee mailings, digital strategies and communications to promote events and solicit annual investments from members, prospects and sponsors.
  • Assist with the management of EL social media and provide content to communication team for volunteer profiles, social media posts and blog posts, etc.

Management of Volunteer Projects
Provide guidance and direction for volunteer projects selected by EL advisory committee to support the mission of UWQC.

  • Work collaboratively with marketing, community impact and resource development staff to ensure compelling mission-aligned volunteer and event programming.
  • Work with Volunteer & Event management staff to develop, define, and implement volunteer opportunities for EL supporters.

Coordination of Engagement Programs & Events
Develop, plan and implement strategic, data-driven, branded, mission-focused EL events/programs that recognize, steward and further cultivate current donors, volunteers and prospects, increasing their engagement with the organization. Specific activities include:

  • Plan, and in collaboration with UWQC Volunteer & Events Manager, execute EL events (networking, professional development and volunteer projects) in coordination with volunteer committee to demonstrate and exemplify the mission and community impact of United Way.
  • Actively engage donors and prospective donors through events designed to cultivate members and enhance relationships. Provide consistent post-event follow-up to secure commitments or move relationships forward.

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Work in conjunction with the Chief Strategy Officer and resource development team, to identify potential donors and solicit donations where appropriate.
  • Work closely with the Corporate Engagement team and United Way volunteers to identify companies to target for education on EL and recruitment of new members.
  • As assigned, lead other fundraising strategies and support company relationships, including year-round engagement with key leaders and company influencers, assisting contacts in planning and executing employee campaign and managing corporate partner accounts through tracking, updating analyzing and evaluating data.
  • Participate in speaking engagements during trainings, company and community events, as needed.

Competencies:

Competencies for all UWQC Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Education / Training:

  • Bachelor’s degree OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Experience in relationship management, fund development, volunteer management, donor cultivation and recognition are a plus.
  • Bring an extensive personal network of emerging leaders and demonstrate the capacity to continuously expand and diversify this network through proactive relationship-building efforts.
  • Project management skills and ability to balance competing priorities
  • Ability to build and manage budgets
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Senior Vice President of Community Impact

Title: Senior Vice President of Community Impact
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative
Supervises: Community Impact Team Leaders; Data & Research Manager, VP of Early Childhood & Education, VP Financial Security

Download Job Description

United Way is the largest nongovernmental funder in the Quad Cities, responsible for private investments into programs that advance equity and improve education, income and health outcomes.

As a results-driven leader who is passionate about harnessing the power of data to inform actionable insights that drive performance and collective impact, the Vice President of Community Impact will demonstrate deep and expert experience in strengthening and managing partnerships; providing ongoing leadership to ensure that data and insights are integrated and aligned with organizational priorities; deliver organizational and community insights that improve decision making, foster innovation, and drive collective impact.

The Vice President, Community Impact serves as a key member of the leadership team and serves as the leader and champion of United Way Quad Cities’ impact work, uniting people, organizations and resources by seeing the big picture and mobilizing resources quickly to create change while amplifying the influence of local nonprofits by directing investments to precisely where and when they can yield the greatest impact.

As Vice President of Community Impact, you will:

  • Set the strategic direction of this work using community-building knowledge and data to inform and develop long term strategies for needs assessment, community investment planning, outcome measurement and program innovation, overseeing our community investment policies and processes to ensure dynamic responsiveness to changes in community needs and conditions.
  • Lead a dedicated Community Impact Team and ensure alignment, execution and progress towards UWQC goals.
  • Oversee key, transformational impact initiatives and provide thought leadership to UW leadership team and the community.
  • Represent UWQC in specific community initiatives and use our deep connections to bring the right volunteer talent to our impact committees and Standard Review Teams.
  • Model our commitment to excellent customer service by cultivating collaborative relationships with nonprofit, government and business sectors, building partnerships and consensus on priorities through dialogue and data-based examination of community assets and needs.
  • Think and plan strategically: You engage diverse stakeholders to assess community needs, strategically guiding United Way to contribute to the community’s priorities with credibility, authenticity and humility.
  • Data-driven critical thinker: You can address and manage complex issues to achieve great results, and have the ability to gather, interpret and use relevant data to drive a dynamic, human-centered community investment process.
  • Impact expert who knows how to collaborate for success: You have broad experience with social services, government and other key community sectors, with a deep understanding of the principles of collective impact. You know how to lead in spaces with competing individual interests and motivations to build coalitions that create and act upon common goals, priorities and vision.
  • Excited about numbers and outcomes measurement: You enjoy the prospect of tracking high-level community impact indicators and sharing results and credit with the partners who help achieve progress. You’re also good at developing and tracking sometimes-complex budgets in collaboration with your internal team and key volunteers.
  • Ensures routine communication with grant partners and production of Quarterly Impact reports that are distributed to nonprofit partners and UWQC current and prospective donors.
  • Comfortable with taking smart risks to achieve goals: You believe innovation drives progress, and you’re not afraid to take on strategic risk to achieve a potentially great outcome.
  • Build rapport with diverse people in a variety of situations: You are comfortable working with people of diverse backgrounds—donors, staff and other constituencies —and have an ability to understand their needs from a variety of perspectives.
  • Team player who knows how to develop and motivate people: You have solid interpersonal and management skills and understand how to build and motivate teams for high achievement and results.

Essential Job Functions

Through the employee’s own efforts or through the delegation of key staff:

  • Foster the development of a common vision among community stakeholders by:
    • Analyzing current and changing social issues and citizen values to determine implications for United Way’s strategic direction.
    • Providing and sharing research-based information in understandable formats to gain greater community commitment for the transformation to community level change.
    • Nurturing strong non-profit relationships.
  • Create a Community Impact Agenda by:
    • Defining United Way’s role in the community’s short- and long-term goals.
    • Establishing desired outcomes, objectives, strategies and action steps.
    • Identifying how United Way can best address specific elements of the plan.
    • Coordinate UWQC’s impact by creating and implementing strategies for grant investment, direct services, advocacy, and volunteerism.
    • Establish board and staff-level responsibility for engaging with the community by establishing United Way’s position on critical public policy issues in an approved advocacy agenda.
    • Organize and/or participate in briefings for public officials, legislators, business leaders and the nonprofit sector to inform and shape policy related to priorities established in the Community Impact Agenda.
  • Community Impact Planning and Integration:
    • Ensure funding priorities are in alignment with the Community Impact Agenda.
    • Manage continuous evaluation relating to system issue areas and strategic plans; integrates the work of the Community Impact Council and staff. Reports results in a timely manner to the President of the United Way and key United Way volunteer leadership.
    • Responsible for data collection, management, and analysis.
    • Conducts ongoing assessments of the system strategic direction and makes adjustments as necessary.
  • Community Impact Leadership and Management:
    • Ensure all impact strategies and decisions are in alignment with the Community Impact Agenda.
    • Provide strategic direction for all UWQC direct services including but not limited to United for Schools, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, Read United, etc.
    • Manage continuous evaluation, relationships, and outcomes related to impact decisions and strategies within impact issue areas and plans; integrates the work of volunteer leaders and staff to ensure careful grant recommendations.
    • Conduct annual review/research, analysis, and report writing of program and initiatives data as it relates to impact areas.
  • Volunteer Leadership and Engagement:
    • Manage recruitment and retention of volunteers.
    • Coordinate communications with volunteers.
    • Ensure volunteers are appropriately trained.
    • Provide support to Community Impact Council leadership on ongoing planning related to system work.
    • Provides leadership, direction and integration of volunteer and corporate engagement opportunities and strategies through Volunteer Hub.
    • Works closely with Resource Development and Communications and Marketing teams to ensure alignment of corporate engagement opportunities.
  • Community Impact Staff:
    • Responsible for the management and leadership of Community Impact staff.
    • Plan and integrate the work plan of staff and provide time, resources, and guidance in completing that work.
    • Track the performance versus objectives of staff team.
    • Assign projects (initiatives) and tracks progress of department members.

Competencies for All Employees:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Requirements:

Education/Training:

A Bachelor’s Degree with at least five years’ experience in an impact-related leadership role. Master’s degree in nonprofit management or related area is always a plus.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • A background of progressive leadership experience in a nonprofit/foundation management role and understanding of the principles of collective impact.
  • Outstanding verbal, written and presentation skills, with an ability to listen actively.
  • Experience with and understanding in working with complex operational budgets.
  • Clear understanding and perspective on the application of qualitative and quantitative data for continuous improvement, communicating impact, and determining progress toward internal and external goals.
  • Experience building data, insights, and analytics strategies in inclusive, collaborative, and cross-functional ways.
  • Adept at building collaborative partnerships with external providers of data and insights, including big data, research, and advocacy organizations.
  • Ability to communicate data insights and trends to a diverse group of stakeholders ranging from senior team members, investors, peers, and analysts.
  • Proven experience in large-scale data integration and analysis efforts and working collaboratively to deliver projects on time, within budget and with a high level of quality.
  • Strong people management and organizational leadership skills.
  • Strong computer skills (particularly MS Office) and an extreme comfort with learning new technology. Experience with CRM systems a plus.
  • An ability to work independently or collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment.
  • Ability to manage people and projects to meet deadlines.
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Student Success Director

Title: Student Success Director
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Vice President Early Care & Education
FLSA Classification: Exempt

Download Job Description

United Way is a leading nonprofit organization in the Quad Cities region. We are committed to making a positive impact in our community by investing in programs that enhance education income, health and promote equity. Our mission is to mobilize people and resource to improve lives and create a community where everyone can access quality education, secure a good job, and enjoy a health life.

As a K-12 Student Success Director at United Way Quad Cities, you will play a vital role in supporting student achievement and ensuring that all students have the resources and support they need to reach their full potential. In this role, you will work closely with school administrators, teachers, parents, and community partners to develop and implement programs that promote academic success, improve attendance, and provide social-emotional support for students in need.

The Director will lead our United for Schools (UFS) program, modeled after the national Community In Schools (CIS) curriculm of Integrated Student Supports. The program surrounds students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.  The Integrated Student Supports model places site coordinators in schools to work in partnership with school districts to develop new strategies and community partnerships to provide additional support and resources to students and families through confidential, developmentally appropriate, culturally sensitive interventions, services and supports.

Essential Job Functions

  • Assist with recruitment, screening, and hiring processes for new UFS site coordinators, as needed.
  • Orient and train UFS site coordinators in the implementation of the CIS model which includes opportunities for flexibility to address unique community needs.
  • Coach and supervise UFS site coordinators in the delivery of the CIS Model. Consult with principal at each school on the selection of the site coordinator.
  • Collaborate with UWQC Community Impact team, grantees and other stakeholders to advance academic achievement.
  • Participate in Communities in Schools national and school district trainings and meetings, in order to support campus leadership in understanding and implementing the CIS Model, aligned with school improvement plans and priorities.
  • Review and align CIS school needs assessments and support plans with school improvement plans.
  • Maintain regular communication with school leadership and site coordinators, including pro-active meetings and troubleshooting.
  • Maintain regular communication with district leadership, school leadership and site coordinators, including pro-active meetings and troubleshooting.
  • Convene monthly site coordinator meetings to enter data and troubleshoot issues.
  • Identify community trends and needs and using this information to drive CIS’ work across campuses.
  • Identify potential community partners and coordinate with organizations nearby that may support multiple schools.
  • Regularly monitor and analyze CIS data through the Communities in Schools Data Management System (CISDM). Support site coordinators in using data to improve practice.
  • Create timely impact reports highlighting the impact occurring at each United for School site.
  • Provide feedback and maintain regular communication by submitting quarterly reports to school district leadership.
  • Establish deadlines for activities and data entry and hold site coordinators accountable.
  • Provide regular updates with UWQC Education Council and local school boards regarding student success efforts.
  • Collaborate with the Resource Development Team to present to donors and corporate partners to facilitate program investments.
  • Develop and implement opportunities for students to explore career pathways. exploration opportunities.
  • Establish sustainable funding for United for Schools and other student success initiatives.

Competencies for All Employees:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Requirements:

Education/Training:

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Education or related field required. Master’s Degree preferred. Experience working in a school setting and with diverse populations preferred.

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Relevant experience to include a mix of direct services and program development/program management working with vulnerable children, youth, or families.
  • Strong communicator and relationship builder with community and/or school district partners.
  • Proficient with data collection processes and using data to inform programmatic decisions.
  • Combination of excellent analytical skills, time management, and ability to be creative and flexible to help move things forward.
  • Comfortable making independent decisions while working well in a collaborative team.
  • Comfortable with public speaking.
  • Valid Driver’s License, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation required.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Thanks for your interest in United Way Quad Cities. At this time we do not have any open positions. For questions regarding employment please email Karrie Abbott at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

Community Engagement Associate

Title: Community Engagement Associate
Status: Full-time
Reports to: Vice President of Community Impact
FLSA Classification: Exempt – Administrative

Download Job Description

United Way Quad Cities is a leading nonprofit organization in the Quad Cities region. We are committed to making a positive impact on our community by investing in programs that enhance education, income, health, and promote equity. Our mission is to mobilize people and resources to improve lives and create a community where everyone can access quality education, secure a good job, and enjoy a healthy life.

As a Community Engagement Associate at United Way Quad Cities, you’ll play a vital role in furthering our mission by providing exceptional internal and external support, while spearheading our community engagement efforts. Your responsibilities will include project management, volunteer/stakeholder support, and active coordination to ensure that our programs in the areas of Education, Income, and Health run smoothly. You’ll directly contribute to the cultivation of inspiring volunteer engagement opportunities, facilitate the implementation of United Way initiatives, support grantmaking processes, and maintain ongoing communication to share impact with volunteers and stakeholders.

Volunteer Engagement

  • Continuously assess volunteer needs in collaboration with internal and external partners.
  • Innovatively research and design ways to engage volunteers.
  • Develop meaningful volunteer opportunities with schools, community organizations, and cross-sector partners to drive impact and enhance volunteer capacity that embody love, inspiration and engagement.
  • Establish and maintain a comprehensive menu of volunteer opportunities.
  • Coordinate with Volunteer and Events Manager to create inspirational, innovative and quality volunteer experiences for corporate partners.
  • Lead large-scale volunteer events, such as Day of Caring.
  • Recruit volunteers for UWQC initiative opportunities.
  • Ensure volunteers have a world-class volunteer experience with clear communication leading up to the project, training and necessary tools and resources.
  • Lead the volunteer thank-you process and ensure timely impact reporting.
  • Administer surveys to gather input and feedback.
  • Manage the Volunteer Hub, including system maintenance, recruiting opportunities, and troubleshooting.

Programs/Initiatives

  • Build and sustain partnerships between school districts, service providers, and community organizations to increase program participation.
  • Effectively communicate program and initiative details to partners, volunteers, and stakeholders.
  • Ensure the procurement and delivery of necessary supplies, materials, and food for UWQC programs.
  • Track and report specific data points as required.
  • Coordinate schedules for UWQC programs (e.g., Read United, parent workshops, etc.).
  • Provide excellent customer service and troubleshoot issues or concerns for partners, volunteers, and stakeholders.
  • Communicate impact to volunteers.

Community Investment

  • Coordinate schedules for Community Investment Panel volunteers.
  • Assist in recruiting Community Investment Volunteers.
  • Provide clear and concise communication to Community Investment Volunteers.
  • Prepare materials for the Community Investment Panel, including email address books, rosters, and access to electronic applications.
  • Perform data entry, data exporting, and maintenance in Foundant (grantmaking software).
  • Perform data entry and tracking of program information in Andar (CRM).

Competencies:

Competencies for all UWQC Staff:

  • Mission-Focused
  • Relationship Oriented
  • Collaborator
  • Results-Driven
  • Brand Steward

Functional Competencies/Accountabilities:

  • Implements and Manages Projects
  • Strategic Community Collaborator
  • Effective & Engaging Communicator
  • Volunteer Engagement
  • Cross-Functional Capability and Collaboration

Experience/Other Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
  • 1-3 years of work experience in administrative, volunteer management, and/or program implementation.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Ability to multi-task, establish priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced work environment.
  • Strong volunteer management skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and as a team member; flexible and open to change.
  • Motivated to challenge the status quo.
  • Capacity to think big and execute.
  • Proven track record in project management and results-driven performance.
  • Proficiency with MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance are required.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter along with your salary expectations, to Karrie Abbott, Chief Operating Officer at kabbott@unitedwayqc.org.

At United Way Quad Cities, we value every background, identity, and experience. We believe that a diverse team, informed by different cultures and perspectives, makes us stronger. We are committed to doing the work and challenging each other to be an organization in which everyone is respected and heard. We commit to providing genuine opportunities for all people to thrive. And we will continue to embed diversity, inclusion, belonging, and equality in everything we do.

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United Way's Read United QC

Read United strives to increase the number of Quad Cities third graders reading on grade level. This greatly improves their chances of success in school and in life. By sharing just 30 minutes a week of your time, you can change a child’s future.

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Bettendorf, IA 52722

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