Job Title(s): Government Grants Writer

Department:  Development

Reports To: Director of Development

Direct Reports: NA

Classification: Exempt

Date: 7/16/24

Company Overview

Founded in 2017, Covenant House Illinois (CHIL) provides critical protection and resources for youth ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness throughout Chicagoland and across Illinois. To date, CHIL has served nearly 2,000 young people, administering tailored, wraparound services, including interim and transitional shelter, workforce and education programming, clinical case management, life-skills training, and more to help youth permanently escape the cycle of homelessness. CHIL's programs and services are youth affirming, supportive, and rooted in harm reduction and trauma-sensitive care. With a newly renovated campus on Chicago’s west side and a recently enacted three-year strategic plan outlining a comprehensive vision of program expansion and service innovation, CHIL is uniquely positioned to meet the emerging needs of young people experiencing housing instability and provide the resources and care they need to achieve sustainable independence.  

Primary Responsibilities

 

To help us achieve our goals and ensure Chicago’s youth receive the services they need to successfully break the cycle of homelessness, CHIL is seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to work on the continued growth of our public funding portfolio as Government Grants Writer. This key position is responsible for grant research, writing, and the application and reporting process for all Covenant House Illinois programs and services.

 

Job Duties:

Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Grant Research and Identification:

  • Identify and research government grant opportunities at the federal, state, and local levels that align with CHIL's programs and initiatives.
  • Monitor grant announcements, updates, and changes in government funding priorities.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of CHIL’s funding needs, programs, and relevant research on youth experiencing homelessness.

Proposal Development:

  • Craft compelling grant proposals and applications that effectively communicate CHIL's programs, impact, and funding needs to government agencies.
  • Ensure all proposals are submitted on time and meet the specific requirements of each funding opportunity.

Collaboration and Communication:

  • Work with Grants Manager to develop, refine and regularly update CHIL case statements, proposal boilerplate, and other grants materials.
  • Collaborate closely with CHIL's program staff to gather necessary data, outcomes, and success stories for grant applications.
  • Work with CHIL finance to develop accurate budget narratives and financial documentation required for grant submissions.
  • Maintain ongoing communication with government agencies and stakeholders to nurture positive relationships and stay informed about funding trends.
  • Maintain and update files with records of submissions and correspondence with funding organizations.  

Grant Reporting:

  • Prepare and submit required progress reports to government funders, demonstrating CHIL’s impact and proper utilization of funds.
  • Work across departments and with senior leadership to ensure contract compliance and report submission is timely and accurate.
  • Work closely with CHIL’s Quality Improvements and Outcomes team on grants deliverables related to program metrics and data analysis.
  • Manage reporting calendar to ensure staff has ample time to give requested metrics, both financial and programmatic.
  • Stay informed about regulatory requirements related to grant applications and reporting.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

Strategy and Planning:

  • Contribute to the development of CHIL's overall fundraising and sustainability strategies.
  • Participate in strategic planning sessions to align grant-seeking activities with organizational goals and priorities.

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., English, nonprofit management, public administration, communications).
  • Two-four years of professional experience in government grant writing and a successful track record of securing grants from federal, state, and/or local government agencies.
  • Strong research and analytical skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and grant management software.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
  • Passion for CHIL's mission and commitment to serving young people experiencing homelessness.

 

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