Community Partner - Rural Partnerships
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Community Partner with deep experience in rural community or economic development to lead our Rural Partnerships program. The role involves continuing our work in Maine’s Katahdin Region and Washington County and expanding support to under-resourced rural communities across the state.
The ideal candidate will be a systems thinker who excels in cultivating multi-stakeholder partnerships and is committed to equity and community-driven work.
A full job description can be found at www.sewallfoundation.org
The Elmina B. Sewall Foundation is a private foundation committed to advancing equity and interconnected well-being for people, animals, and the environment in Maine. Since 2011, Sewall has awarded nearly $170 million in grants to support community-led efforts that protect and empower Maine’s most vital resources. The Foundation is committed to supporting efforts that promote healthy and whole lives for all people; protect and enhance the environment; ensure the humane treatment of animals; and stimulate long-term sustainable development while building local opportunity.
Key Responsibilities:
- Grantmaking: Lead and adapt the Rural Partnerships grantmaking strategy, providing guidance and support to applicants and grantee partners.
- Relationship Building: Cultivate trusting relationships with nonprofit, grassroots, and community-based organizations.
- Field-Building: Represent the Foundation at community events and support partners through leadership development and capacity-building initiatives.
- Learning & Evaluation: Partner with communities to identify data needs, contribute to internal learning efforts, and help design evaluation processes.
- Communications: Promote Sewall’s mission, share stories from partners, and maintain relationships with aligned funders.
Qualifications:
- Required:
- Significant experience in rural community or economic development.
- Proven ability to build authentic, trusting relationships.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Commitment to trust-based philanthropy, equity, and systems thinking.
- Preferred:
- Experience with impact investing or alternative financing models.
- Background in community organizing or grassroots movement-building.
- Undergraduate degree in a relevant field (e.g., community development, economics, public policy, social work, or related disciplines).
- Salary: $75,000–$85,000
- Health & Dental Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for employee and dependents
- Retirement: SEP IRA, 403(b) plan launching in 2025
- Paid Time Off: Generous earned time off, sick leave, family leave, and holidays
Other Benefits: Life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance
Equal Opportunity Employer:
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, communities, and lived experiences to apply.
To apply, please submit the following to communications@sewallfoundation.org:
- A resume that provides a complete overview of your relevant paid and unpaid experience
- A cover letter explaining your interest in the position and why you believe you are a strong fit
- Priority given to applications received by June 30. Position will remain open until filled.
- Full job description can be found at www.sewallfoundation.org