Marketing & Development Coordinator SMILES Inc

Marketing & Development Coordinator
Organization
: SMILES, Inc. (Special Methods in Learning Equine Skills)
Location
:
On-Site:
Darien, WI Reports To
:
Executive Director Status
:
Full Time | Exempt Position Summary

The Marketing & Development Coordinator plays a key role in advancing the mission of SMILES, Inc. by planning and executing special events, supporting fundraising and grant efforts, and managing the organization’s marketing and communications. This position is responsible for ensuring consistent, engaging, and mission-aligned messaging across all platforms while strengthening community awareness, donor engagement, and external relationships.

The ideal candidate is a highly organized, creative, and detail-oriented professional who is passionate about nonprofit work, storytelling, and building meaningful connections with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and the broader community.

Our Mission: SMILES transcends traditional therapeutic methods by offering individuals with special needs, of all ages, the joy of participating in an equine-assisted program that provides social, emotional, physical, and personal rewards.

• Plan, coordinate, and execute all special events, including fundraising events, donor cultivation activities, community outreach events, and awareness campaigns
• Manage event timelines, logistics, vendors, volunteers, sponsor ships, and post-event follow-up
• Track event performance, attendance, and fundraising outcomes; prepare summary reports and recommendations
• Collaborate with leadership to identify new event and fundraising opportunities

Research and identify grant opportunities aligned with SMILES, Inc.’s mission and programs

• Write, submit, and track grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and funding applications
• Ensure timely completion of grant reports, outcomes tracking, and compliance requirements
• Maintain organized grant calendars, files, and reporting documentation

• Develop and implement external marketing strategies to increase awareness, participation, and support
• Maintain and manage the organization’s website, ensuring content is current, accurate, and compelling
• Create and distribute marketing and communication materials, including newsletters, flyers, brochures, impact reports, and donor communications
• Ensure brand consistency across all platforms and materials

• Plan, create, and schedule content for social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Linked In)
• Monitor engagement, respond to messages and comments, and grow the organization’s digital presence
• Capture and share stories, photos, and videos that highlight participants, programs, horses, volunteers, and impact
• Track and report on social media and digital marketing metrics

• Support donor communication, acknowledgements, and stewardship efforts
• Assist with database updates, contact lists, and communication tracking
• Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and board members on development and marketing initiatives

Provide administrative and project support related to marketing and development as needed

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, nonprofit management, development, or a related field—or equivalent experience
• 2+ years of experience in marketing, development, communications, or event planning (nonprofit experience preferred)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including grant writing and storytelling
• Experience managing social media platforms and website content
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Valid driver’s license and reliable…