Grant Writer Executive

Purpose

Help transform lives by securing grant funding that enables Cars of Hope to refurbish donated vehicles and provide reliable transportation to families who have fallen on hard times, especially single mothers. As a volunteer Grant Writer, you will play a key role in expanding our impact throughout the Chicagoland area by helping obtain financial support from foundations, corporations, faith-based organizations, and government grant opportunities.

Cars of Hope is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with over 16 years of service. Every successful grant helps place another safe, dependable vehicle into the hands of a deserving family, giving them access to employment, childcare, medical appointments, education, and greater independence.

Responsibilities

• Research and identify grant opportunities that align with the mission of Cars of Hope.
• Develop and write compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and funding applications.
• Work with the leadership team to gather organizational information, program outcomes, budgets, and supporting documentation for grant submissions.
• Maintain a calendar of grant deadlines and reporting requirements.
• Help cultivate relationships with foundations, corporations, faith-based organizations, and other funding partners.
• Assist in preparing grant reports and documenting the impact of awarded grants.
• Recommend new funding strategies and opportunities to strengthen the organization's long-term sustainability.
• Advocate for the mission of Cars of Hope by helping communicate the life-changing impact of reliable transportation for families in need.
• Collaborate with other volunteers involved in fundraising, marketing, donor development, and community outreach.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience writing successful grant proposals is preferred but not required.
• Strong writing, editing, and research skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively.
• Organized and able to manage multiple deadlines.
• Interest in helping families facing transportation challenges.
• Experience with nonprofit fundraising, grant research, philanthropy, or foundation relations is a plus.

Impact

Every grant awarded helps provide the resources needed to:

• Purchase repair parts.
• Complete mechanical and body repairs.
• Prepare donated vehicles for safe, dependable service.
• Expand the number of families Cars of Hope can serve throughout the Chicago region.

Reliable transportation can change the course of a family's future by helping parents maintain employment, transport children safely, and achieve greater financial stability.

Benefits

• Make a measurable difference in the lives of families in need.
• Use your professional skills to support a growing nonprofit.
• Work alongside an enthusiastic volunteer leadership team.
• Gain nonprofit grant writing experience and expand your professional portfolio.
• Help shape the future growth of Cars of Hope as we expand our reach across the Chicagoland area.

Eligibility

This is a volunteer position and is not eligible for community service hours.