Grant Specialist

We have a strong commitment to equity

The Y actively promotes a culture free from bias and injustice. We are dedicated to removing institutional and systemic barriers that result in oppression and racism. We will be accountable to marginalized communities for creating equitable and sustainable environments where social justice is woven into every facet of our programs, and by caring for our communities in a culturally versatile and respectful manner.

Tell me about this job!

The Grant Specialist is responsible for stewarding grants from corporations, foundations, and public funders through the grants pipeline: research, development, project management, and reporting. This role reports to the Director of Grants and Foundations, and the role contributes to a Financial Development department and organization strategic goals.

The Grant Specialist will be responsible for conducting the full range of activities required to research, write, prepare, submit, and report on grant proposal to foundations, corporations, public funders and other grant-making organizations. The Grant Specialist is also responsible for identifying new funding sources for programs and supporting funder cultivation and stewardship.

Minimum Compensation: $56,384.00 /Annually

What You’ll Get From Working At The Y

• Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle for you and your household
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance
• Retirement with generous employer contributions
• Free access to mental health resources
• Rapidly-accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire
• Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare and day camp programs
• Some benefits only available to full-time staff

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is committed to providing a positive atmosphere that prioritizes safety and inclusivity for all employees. The YMCA of Greater Seattle has implemented safety standards and protocols related to preventative health measures based on CDC and local health department guidelines.

YMCA of Greater Seattle will comply with all WA state mandates regarding COVID vaccinations. All YGS staff are required to be fully vaccinated for COVID regardless of work location. Religious and Medical Exemptions will be considered at time of hire.

Responsibilities

What you’ll be doing

• Draft and ensure timely submission of letters of intent, grant proposals and funding reports on a timely basis as outlined on the organizational grant calendar; maintain a portfolio averaging 5 grant-related submissions per month.
• Work proactively with other YMCA departments to adhere to all programmatic and fiscal reporting requirements stipulated in grants.
• Project manage proposals with staff in all levels and departments, ensuring that all aspects of an application are complete, organized, and flow together in a cohesive manner aligned with YMCA standards.
• Ensure seamless and timely process for all tasks, communication and reports related to the grant process, including letters of inquiry, proposals, reports, and stewardship activities.
• Record accurate information on proposals, declinations, and awards, reporting requirements, and application timelines to ensure all deadlines are met and proposals are tracked.
• Maintain clear and accurate written and electronic records of grant proposals and reports, including grant activity tracking in shared drives and databases.
• Critically assess RFPs and determine which program(s) and partnerships align to respond to the RFP.
• Learn the YMCA’s programs, goals, and financial needs in order to develop compelling proposals, seek new funding opportunities, and report on funding impact.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the organization (Finance, Financial Development, and Program teams) to ensure financial and reporting requirements are met.
• Demonstrates a high degree of skill in communication and positive interaction with all group employees, volunteers, external agencies/companies, and the community at large.
• Be able to evaluate systems and processes, and for best practices that align with the organization’s mission and values.
• Special projects as assigned in support of organizational objectives.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

What we’re looking for in an applicant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Journalism, English, Communications, Marketing, Social Services, Sociology, or a closely related field.
• Three years or more of grant writing or related work experience in fundraising or writing experience in the areas of social services/ humanitarian/ development programming, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Understand the grant lifecycle process (from identifying the opportunity to apply, write the grant and reporting).
• Ability to handle multiple projects/tasks and juggle priorities while adhering to strict deadlines.
• Must be able to work under pressure, use independent judgment, and produce a quality grant within tight time constraints.
• Demonstrated success in obtaining grant driven funding from foundations and/or corporations
• Proven track record of meeting deadlines.
• Skill in highly persuasive and effective writing.
• Excellent attention to detail, strong computer skills, and general understanding of financial principles.
• Strong organizational and time management skills. Able to plan, organize, and complete multiple grant proposals and/or reports and follow-up as required.
• Ability to analyze and synthesize information for writing grant proposals, letters, articles, etc.
• Exceptional ability to edit written materials accurately and consistently, including own work.
• Skill in researching and analyzing.
• Knowledge of grant writing and grant making techniques, current trends, and best practices.
• Knowledge of how to craft, construct, and submit an effective grant application.
• Ability to write a convincing case for funding.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English, including the ability to edit and proof materials.
• Ability to interpret grant requirements, general business periodicals, professional journals, financial information, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
• Ability to represent, effectively and professionally, the organization to a wide variety of audiences.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to use good judgment to make sound decisions and resolve problems.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, work independently, and effectively solve problems.
• Ability to maintain confidential information and use discretion.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively manage work groups.
• Excellent interpersonal skills: ability to establish and work collaboratively and cooperatively with a variety of colleagues from different departments.
• Critical thinking skills to tackle challenges and look for innovative solutions.
• A commitment to equity and ensuring that everyone is represented by the organization.

If applicable, other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.

Preferred Education/Experience

• Master’s degree in Journalism, English, Communications, Sociology, or a closely related field.
• Raiser’s Edge Donor System or other Donor Management Software is preferred.
• Grant-based project management experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated success in obtaining grant driven funding from foundations and/or corporations
• Life experience with poverty, child welfare, homelessness, behavioral health, or youth violence and a desire to use that experience to improve the lives of others.
• Prefer knowledge of and previous experience with diverse populations (language, culture, race, physical ability, sexual orientation, etc.).
• Ability to speak any language in addition to English.

At the Seattle Y, we are an inclusive organization of people with a shared commitment to nurture the potential of youth, promote healthy living, and foster social responsibility. We also believe in supporting the wellbeing of our employees and offer a free Y membership as a benefit of employment.

Become a leader on our team at the YMCA of Greater Seattle where we promote a continuous learning environment and career opportunities.

Our Mission

Building a community where all people, especially the young, are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body.

YMCA of Greater Seattle’s Core Values

Respect

Responsibility

Honesty

Caring

Passion for Excellence

YGS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and equitable work environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran , or any other status protected by local, state , or federal law.

All job offers are contingent on the results of a background check. We participate in the Federal E-Verify system.