Grants Specialist

Organization General Description

The Resurrection Project (TRP) builds trusting relationships to educate and propel individuals, immigrants, and families to achieve their social and economic aspirations, stable homes, and equitable participation in their community. TRP is a leading provider of affordable housing, financial counseling, immigration services, and community development on Chicago’s Southwest Side.

During the past three decades, TRP has improved the lives of individuals and families by creating wealth, building assets, and engaging residents to be catalysts for change. Rooted in the Pilsen community, TRP’s impact now extends across the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois; we are making steady progress toward leveraging and preserving more than $1 billion in community wealth

General Job Description

TRP Lending, LLC, a TRP affiliate and designated CDFI, is seeking a Grants Specialist to support the administration of TRP Lending’s housing-related grant programs, including purchase and down-payment assistance grants, shared equity homeownership grants, and home improvement and rehabilitation grant programs.

The Lending Grants Specialist is responsible for assisting the Grants Program Manager with day-to-day program operations, including applicant communication, document collection, eligibility verification support, data entry, and file management. This role engages directly with applicants to provide updates, assist with required documentation, and ensure a positive and supportive client experience throughout the grant process.

The Grants Specialist is a member of the Full Circle Homes team and works collaboratively across TRP Lending and TRP staff to promote financial capability, sustainable homeownership, and community wealth building.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with intake, application follow-up, document collection, and file completion for grant applicants.
• Communicate regularly with applicants to provide status updates, answer questions, and guide them through documentation requirements.
• Review submitted documents for completeness and accuracy; flag issues or missing materials for resolution.
• Enter application and client data into TRP’s CRM (Salesforce) and maintain accurate records.
• Schedule applicant appointments, meetings, and follow-up calls as needed.
• Prepare application files for final eligibility review by the Grants Program Manager.
• Generate standard letters and notifications, including conditional approvals, document requests, and reminders.
• Assist in preparing internal and external reporting, dashboards, and data summaries.
• Support outreach and education activities, including workshops, events, and partner engagement.
• Maintain strong customer service and uphold TRP Lending’s mission and equity-centered approach to financing and homeownership.
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and professional development sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

• Associate’s Degree or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• 1–3 years of work experience in housing, lending, social services, customer service, or related field.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to provide supportive, high-quality customer service.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; Salesforce or CRM experience preferred (or willingness to learn).
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Commitment to TRP’s mission and values.

Special Working Conditions and Demands

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Access to a car, valid driver’s license, and ability to travel within the Chicago metropolitan area.

Position Classification & Salary

Full-Time, Non-Exempt. Salary commensurate with experience. $45,000 - $55,000

Statement of Equal Opportunity

The Resurrection Project is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation (including gender identity), military status, disability, or language (any language use not related to job duties). TRP complies with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.

Benefits:

• Medical HDHP, HMO, and PPO.
• Dental HMO and PPO
• Vision
• Life Insurance and ADD, Company Paid
• Short- and Long-Term Disability: Company Paid
• 403(B) retirement savings plans
• Flexible Spending account and Dependent care account
• Transit Benefit

Bilingual in English and Spanish required