The House of Welcome (HoW), a project of St Francis Social Services, is passionate about providing opportunities for refugees and people seeking asylum that enable their self-determination, empowerment and participation in the community.

HoW provides transitional accommodation and housing for approximately 95 asylum seekers in 19 properties. In addition to housing, staff and volunteers offer a variety of support services such as case work, financial assistance, food bank, referrals, advocacy, employment and community development programs for numerous clients across Sydney.

A Description of the Position

The Grant Writer & Digital Communications role is a dynamic position requiring the ability to utilise skills with creativity and flexibility. The position reports to the Executive Manager and is a critical member of the House of Welcome and St Francis Social Services Team.

Professional Accountability

• Work closely with the House of Welcome team to understand HoW programs and their priorities for funding
• Proactively identify and pursue fundraising opportunities through grants and other funding opportunities
• Research, write and submit compelling grant applications
• Manage a detailed, prioritised calendar to ensure an adequate pipeline of applications and acquittals
• Prepare reports, statistics, and other relevant information as required for compliance with submissions and funding agreements
• Research and enlist individual, foundation and corporate support that results in philanthropic gifts, grants and pro-bono support
• Update the HoW section of the SFSS website
• Maintain social media presence on Facebook and Instagram accounts
• Contribute to development and distribution of print & digital quarterly newsletters
• Promotion of HoW’s participation in advocacy campaigns through digital platforms
• Input to strategy and assist with major SFSS and HOW fundraising campaigns and events

Essential Criteria:

• Tertiary qualifications in Communications, marketing, journalism or other related field
• Proven success in grant writing and reporting, ideally in a not-for-profit environment
• Demonstrated ability to write proposals and reports that are succinct, professional and compelling - with the capacity to adjust style to suit various audiences
• Demonstrated knowledge of social media, mailchimp and other digital fundraising platforms.
• Able to competently and rapidly understand program work and fundraising activities to accurately express in writing
• Demonstrated ability to work sensitively in a culturally and linguistically diverse environment
• Ability to work with various church and community groups without discrimination.

Desirable Criteria

1. Experience within the not for profit sector as an employee or volunteer.
2. Demonstrated understanding of policy framework and issues encountered by refugees and asylum seekers in Australia.
3. Driver’s licence

For further information about the position contact Miriam Pellicano: [email protected], using the subject line: Grant Writer & Digital Communications enquiry via EthicalJobs, or phone 02 9727 9290.