Organization: South Chicago Dance Theatre
Post Date: August 3, 2026
Apply By: August 17, 2026
Job Title: Advancement Associate
Reports To: Director of Vision and Strategy
Program/Department: Administrative Classification: Independent Contractor, Hourly
Compensation: $50 – $75 Per Hour
Projected Weekly Hours: 10 – 15 Projected Start Date: October 1, 2026
To Apply:
Submit a resume, writing sample and cover letter, to employment@southchicagodancetheatre.com by August 17, 2026.
Position Objectives:
● To support the execution of South Chicago Dance Theatre’s overall development strategy, conduct prospect research and write compelling grant proposals to secure funding from government agencies, foundations, and corporations.
● To support the implementation of the organization’s marketing strategy to drive ticket sales and audience engagement.
Primary Tasks & Responsibilities:
● Grant Management and Proposal Writing:
- Identify potential grant opportunities from foundations, government agencies, and other funding sources.
- Research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals and priorities.
- Develop and maintain a comprehensive grants calendar, tracking deadlines, reporting requirements, and other important details.
- Collaborate with program staff to gather necessary information, data, and stories for grant applications and reports.
- Ensure compliance with grant regulations and reporting guidelines.
● Execute donor relations and stewardship:
- Ensure donor communications, acknowledgments, and recognition communications and activities are completed in a consistent and timely manner.
- Serve on the leadership team for South Chicago Dance Theatre’s Legacy Builders Benefit.
● Collaborate with SCDT’s leadership teamto align marketing efforts with fundraising initiatives, donor cultivation, and sponsorship opportunities.
● Support the development and implementation of marketing campaigns across various channels, including digital platforms, traditional media, and authentic community connections.
● Generate engagement through the creation of compelling content, including website copy, social media posts, email newsletters, press releases, and/or promotional materials.
Values, Skills, Knowledge, or Experience:
● Experience with successful grant writing and securing funding from foundations, government agencies, and other sources.
● Knowledge of the non-profit sector, fundraising principles, and grant management practices.
● Written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate the organization’s purpose and impact to varying audiences.
● History of building and maintaining relationships with donors, stakeholders, and community partners.
● Detail-oriented with confident organizational and project management skills.
● Ability to authentically communicate a passion for dance and the purpose of the organization.
● Proficiency in digital marketing platforms, including social media, email marketing, content management systems, and analytics tools.
● Project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and coordinate multiple initiatives simultaneously.
