Summary

Power our parks programming! As our VISTA, you'll write grants & develop fundraising plans to support the Parks Foundation. A great opportunity for a technical writer or environmental steward.

Position Description 

The Environmental Grants Coordinator VISTA will be an essential member of the team for this young non-profit organization. This person will help to build capacity and implement a sustainable fundraising plan to support the Healthy Parks, Healthy People programs. Collaborating closely with the Development Director and other VISTA members, this person will create new and expand current fundraising opportunities to support free and accessible health-based programming.

Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation is a private nonprofit that was incorporated in 2012 and received its 501(c)(3) determination in 2013. The Parks Foundation protects and enhances our communities' livability through public engagement, education, and the sustainability of our parks, open spaces, and trails. Current programs focus on improving community health and wellness and developing people’s appreciation for the natural and cultural history found in local parks. A special emphasis is placed on increasing access to free programming for low income community members in order to improve education and health outcomes for people living in poverty.

Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our team represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities, and we strive to act with mutual respect, integrity, and care. We seek candidates whose personal and/or professional experiences have prepared them to share in our commitment to fostering connections and inclusion with diverse people both within our office and in the outdoors.

Service Location: Reno, NV

Timeline for Service: March, 2025 - March, 2026

Primary Responsibilities

• Assess TMPF’s current fundraising methods and needs;
• Update TMPF fundraising materials to reflect current Healthy Parks, Healthy People programs, goals, and needs;
• Create a fundraising development plan for health-based programs and events that help increase accessibility and inclusion in parks and open spaces; 
• Maintain and improve database to track grants, major gifts, and business sponsorships;
• Research and participate in grant writing activities to help ensure funding of health-based programs and events;
• Create and improve fundraising standard operating procedures;
• Update and maintain a prospect list for potential sustainable sources of funding;
• Research and implement best practices for grant reporting; 
• Design and implement a yearly fundraising campaign.

Qualifications

• Ability to pass a background check;
• Passionate commitment to Parks Foundation's mission and vision;
• Bachelor’s degree and/or experience in grant writing, fundraising, and/or networking;
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment;
• Exceptional writing skills;
• Strong communication skills;
• Strong organizational skills;
• High degree of initiative and spirit of service;
• Preferred: experience in fundraising and donor cultivation;
• Preferred: experience with grant writing and reporting;
• Preferred: reading, writing, and speaking competency in Spanish language.

AmeriCorps VISTA

Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation’s VISTA positions are funded by the Corporations for National and Community Service and will serve within the AmeriCorps VISTA program. AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Each VISTA member makes a year-long, full-time commitment to serve on a specific project at a nonprofit organization or public agency. To learn more about the AmeriCorps programs visit americorps.gov.

This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, marital or parental status, genetic information and military service

Compensation and Benefits

• In return for their service, AmeriCorps VISTA members receive a living allowance of approximately $24,962.35. 
• Upon completion of service, choice of Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of approximately $7,395 or post-service stipend of $1,800. 
• A relocation settling-in allowance of no less than $750 if you are moving more than 50 miles, and travel allowance based on mileage may also apply. 
• Health benefits during service. 
• Child care assistance (if applicable). 
• Qualified student loan deferment or forbearance.
• Non-competitive eligibility for qualified government jobs the first year after completing service. 
• Professional development through monthly training, skills learned in service, and experience in a nonprofit environment.
• Work environment flexibility; ie remote working, work at parks, nature study area;
• 10 days personal/vacation time and 10 days sick leave;
• Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation offers flex time, mileage reimbursement for service-related travel, a casual dress code, and a fun office environment!