SCOPE OF THE POSITION

Reporting to the Director of Grants Development and Communications, the Grant Writer and Communications Specialist will manage a portfolio of approximately 100 donors and prospects in support of Fidelco Guide Dog Foundations mission of empowering people who are blind through partnership with German Shepherd guide dogs.

In this deadline driven role, the Grant Writer and Communications Specialist will evaluate, manage, and submit well-written and customized proposals and letters of inquiry to foundations, corporations and government agencies to secure funding for Fidelcos programs and services. This position requires strong project management skills to maintain a robust calendar and ensure timely submission of all materials in accordance with funder requirements. Grants-related responsibilities comprise approximately 70% of the role.

From a Communications standpoint, the position works in close collaboration with the broader Grants and Communications Team, Fidelcos marketing partners, and other departments to co-write and produce biannual newsletters, two major annual appeals, and other multi-channel campaigns across email, direct mail, and social media platforms. Both the grants and communications aspects of this role require frequent phone and email interaction with Fidelcos clients to obtain testimonials and information about their experiences being partnered with guide dogs. Communications responsibilities represent approximately 30% of the role.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential duties include, but are not limited to, the following. Other responsibilities may be required as needed:

• Develop, prepare and submit timely, well-written, and persuasive letters of inquiry and grant proposals to foundations, corporations and government funders aligned with Fidelcos mission and strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to gather content and data needed to develop grant proposals and fulfill grant requirements, including outcomes reporting.
• Coordinate with the Research Specialist to monitor RFPs and identify new funding opportunities.
• Maintain the grant proposal and reporting calendar to ensure all deadlines are met and a high-volume grant submission pipeline is sustained.
• Provide writing and editorial support for newsletters, appeals, and other communications.
• Perform related administrative responsibilities as required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Ability to relate to and work in an environment with animals.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; able to collaborate effectively within team and externally with donors, volunteers, and community partners.
• Highly-motivated, independent, and capable of managing multiple priorities.
• Creative thinker with demonstrated intellectual curiosity and a proactive problem-solving mindset.
• Able to represent Fidelco professionally at donor meetings, community events, and other public engagements.

EDUCATION/PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

• Bachelors degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 7-10 years experience in grant proposal writing and a proven track record of securing funding.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
• In-depth knowledge of non-profit fundraising practices, including grant writing protocols and standards.
• Strong organizational skills and high attention to detail.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office, fundraising and donor management Platforms such as Raisers Edge, and grant databases such as the Foundation Directory Online.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strategic and solution-oriented, with the ability to identify funding opportunities from both traditional and unconventional sources.
• Familiarity with and interest in emerging technologies, including AI, is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• The employee may be required to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Valid drivers license and a clean driving record
• Submission of 57 recent writing samples will be required as part of the application process.
• This position is primarily remote; however, periodic in-person meetings are required at Fidelcos campus in Bloomfield, CT. Candidates must reside in the New England or New York area and be able to travel to Bloomfield as needed. No relocation assistance is offered for this position.

Fidelco fosters an inclusive, mission-driven environment where animalsincluding the dogs we breedare regularly present in the workplace. As such, applicants should expect ongoing exposure to animal fur, hair and dander when at Fidelcos headquarters and events where our dogs are present.