COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Wilmington, NC (On-site)

$17/hr – $21/hrEntry Level1+ years expFull time

Posted 2 months ago

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Job Summary

Own multi-channel YMCA communications by turning program details into compelling stories, managing editorial quality, and driving media visibility to showcase community impact.

  • Content ownership across newsletters, press, email, website, and donor materials to align with brand voice.
  • Media relations and on-site storytelling execution to raise local visibility and highlight program impact.
  • Collaboration with program teams to translate activities into audience-ready narratives and tangible outcomes.

Job Description

Responsibilities

  • Draft, edit, and proofread content for newsletters, press releases, email communications, website updates, blog posts, mobile app messaging, and program promotions.
  • Ensure communications are clear, consistent, and aligned with YMCA brand standards and voice.
  • Support the development of messaging that effectively communicates the YMCA’s mission, programs, and community impact.
  • Collaborate with program and membership teams to gather information and translate program details into engaging communications.
  • Help identify and develop meaningful stories that highlight the YMCA’s impact across youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
  • Assist in planning and coordinating testimonial videos, interviews, and promotional storytelling initiatives.
  • Support development of content for impact reports, annual campaigns, and donor communications.
  • Participate in or help coordinate on-site interviews, photography sessions, and video shoots as needed.
  • Assist with drafting press releases and media advisories promoting YMCA programs, partnerships, initiatives, and events.
  • Build and maintain relationships with local media outlets to increase visibility of the YMCA’s work.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, English, or a related field preferred.
  • Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively across a variety of platforms and audiences.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Interest in mission-driven work and community impact.
  • 1-3 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing, ideally in a non-profit setting.
  • PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. - Must be able to see and hear. - Must be able to speak clearly. - Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs. - Must be in good health. - Must be able to bend, stand, stoop, walk, and climb a ladder. - Must be able to comprehend and communicate written and verbal instructions.

Preferred

  • Bilingual skills in English and Spanish to assist the Y in better communicating to a larger audience.
  • Experience coordinating or supporting video, photography, or storytelling projects.
  • Familiarity with content management systems, email marketing platforms, and social media tools.

Benefits

  • Complimentary YMCA Membership
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Professional Development
  • Retirement Benefits
  • Employee Resource Groups