Community Engagement and Events Specialist

Community Engagement & Event Specialist

Department: Marketing & Development
Reports to: Vice President, Communications & Advancement
Location: In-Office (Community-Based Travel Required)

Help Build Stronger Community Connections

Starbridge is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Community Engagement & Event Specialist to expand our presence throughout the community and strengthen partnerships that support individuals and families.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys connecting with people, representing a mission-driven organization at community events, and turning outreach into meaningful engagement. If you are energized by building partnerships, organizing events, and increasing access to services for underserved populations, we encourage you to apply.

Position Summary

The Community Engagement & Event Specialist develops, implements, and evaluates outreach strategies to engage individuals, families, community organizations, and stakeholders. This role raises awareness of programs and services, builds long-term partnerships, and fosters inclusive community connections that increase access to support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other populations served.

The position works collaboratively with communications, development, intake, and leadership teams to ensure outreach efforts are strategic, measurable, and aligned with the agency’s mission.

Key Responsibilities
Community Engagement & Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with community partners including nonprofits, schools, local government, faith-based organizations, civic groups, and advocacy organizations
• Represent Starbridge at community events, fairs, meetings, and workshops
• Develop and implement outreach campaigns including presentations, informational sessions, and webinars
• Deliver education and training materials to external audiences about programs, services, and disability rights
• Track outreach leads and coordinate follow-up with potential participants, families, and partners

Event Planning & Execution

• Manage an annual community events calendar including timelines, logistics, staffing, and materials
• Lead planning and execution of engagement and partner events
• Serve as primary contact for event logistics and partner communication
• Coordinate internal staff participation and ensure event readiness (materials, signage, displays)

Sponsorship & Partnership Activation

• Track and manage sponsorship deliverables including branding, signage, social media, and promotional materials
• Ensure agency representation at co-branded events is aligned with mission and visibility goals
• Identify opportunities to deepen partnerships and expand regional impact

Data Collection & Reporting

• Maintain records of outreach activities, events, referrals, and outcomes
• Analyze outreach effectiveness and contribute to leadership reports
• Track event participation and coordinate staff recruitment for events

Cross-Department Collaboration

• Partner with Marketing, Communications, and Development to align messaging and outreach materials
• Provide feedback to improve accessibility and effectiveness of external communications
• Stay informed on trends and resources within the disability services field

Additional Responsibilities

• Develop systems and workflows to improve outreach efficiency
• Assist with onboarding and mentoring interns or volunteers
• Support larger-scale engagement initiatives and regional campaigns
• Participate in outreach budget tracking and planning
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma required
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Business, Human Services, Community Development, Public Relations, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• Experience in community outreach, engagement, or partnership development required
• Experience in the human services field or working with individuals with disabilities preferred

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; comfortable presenting to groups
• Experience planning or coordinating events
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort learning CRM/data tracking systems
• Experience creating content for social media platforms
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Knowledge of the developmental disability service system in New York State (e.g., OPWDD) preferred
• Spanish fluency preferred
• Valid driver’s license required

Work Environment

• Office-based role with frequent travel to community events

Pay: $19.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person