Community Relations Specialist

The Community Relations Specialist plays a key role in advancing the mission of Orange City Area Health System by overseeing the recruitment, training, scheduling, and retention of volunteers. S/he is responsible for all regulatory requirements for volunteers, as well as the volunteer database. This role also supports Orange City Area Health Foundation operations, fundraising activities, donor relations efforts, and community relations initiatives that strengthen the hospital’s engagement with the broader community. S/he works in partnership with health system staff, high schools, colleges and universities, and community organizations. The ideal candidate is a compassionate and dynamic leader with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Volunteer Management:

• Recruit, interview, and onboard volunteers for various health system departments and events, including on main campus, at Prairie Ridge Care Center, at Landsmeer Ridge Retirement Community, and at Home Health & Hospice.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and expectations for volunteers and oversee training and orientation programs for volunteers.
• Provide direct oversight of volunteers.
• Schedule and coordinate volunteers in collaboration with department needs.
• Maintain volunteer records, hours, and compliance with health system standards.
• Recognize and retain volunteers through appreciation events and ongoing communication, including monthly volunteer newsletter.
• Mediate conflicts or concerns and ensure a positive volunteer experience.
• Work with Gift Garden Manager to ensure staffing of gift shop and positive customer experience.

Foundation Support:

• Provide administrative and project support for Orange City Area Health Foundation.
• Assist with planning and execution of fundraising events and campaigns (e.g. annual appeals, employee giving, special events, donor recognition activities).
• Maintain donor database, prepare donor acknowledgement letters, and support accurate gift processing and reporting.
• Prepare materials as needed for Foundation meetings, including board meetings.
• Assist with stewardship activities, including donor follow-up, impact reporting, and engagement touchpoints.
• Support the development and distribution of Foundation communications, including newsletters, social media content, and event materials
• Collaborate with Marketing and Foundation Director on initiatives that enhance donor relations and community philanthropy.

Kanaal Huis Support (55+ Luxury Condo Community Owned by the Foundation):

• Assist with showings and walkthroughs for prospective residents.
• Support record keeping, documentation, and required paperwork.
• Assist with additional administrative or operational tasks as needed.

Auxiliary Support:

• Provide administrative support to the auxiliary board and maintain the auxiliary database.
• Assist with planning and coordination of auxiliary activities and events.

Community Relations Support:

• Assist with planning and execution of community outreach events.
• Collaborate with marketing/public relations and foundation to support communication strategies and donor engagement.
• Maintain relationships with community organizations, schools, colleges, universities, and civic groups to encourage volunteerism and community involvement.
• Participate in speaking and tabling opportunities within the community.