Job Opportunity –

Philanthropy & Communications Coordinator
Full-time (40 hours per week)

JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s
largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business. Through
the delivery of hands-on, blended learning in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work
readiness, JA empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills,
manage their earnings, and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their
communities.

Since 1963, schools in South Western Ontario have relied on JA to prepare young people for
success in an ever-changing global economy. JA South Western Ontario is responsible for the
geographic area including the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex,
Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and
Niagara.

Role Summary

The Philanthropy & Communications Coordinator is a unique role that links fundraising and
marketing, playing a key part in advancing JA’s mission. This role reports directly to the Director,
Philanthropy, and is accountable to the Director, Marketing and Communications.

This position is ideal for a highly motivated professional who thrives in a collaborative, dynamic
environment and is eager to contribute to many aspects of philanthropy. The coordinator will work
closely with senior leadership, support fundraising initiatives, and help communicate the impact of
JA’s programs to the community. This is an opportunity to grow your skills, take ownership of
meaningful projects, and make a tangible difference.

Under the Philanthropy portfolio, the Philanthropy & Communications Coordinator contributes to
the revenue growth and sustainability of JA South Western Ontario. This role is involved with a
variety of initiatives including grant applications, proposals, and reports, support for the
organization’s annual fundraising activities, donor recognition and stewardship, and contributes to
the events portfolio. The Philanthropy & Communications Coordinator works collaboratively
across departments on sponsorship activities while stewarding relationships with new and existing
donors, and provides support to the Director, Philanthropy.

Primary Responsibilities – Philanthropy (60%)

Contribute meaningfully to overall revenue goals through proactive fundraising support:

• Research, identify and qualify funding opportunities across government, foundations, corporations,
  service clubs and individual donor segments.
• Create and prepare compelling grant proposals and applications, solicitation packages, letters of
  inquiry, and impact reports that effectively convey JASWO’s mission and impact.
• Monitor the lifecycle of grants and proposals from conceptualization through reporting to ensure
  timely deliverables and strong funder relationships.
• Collaborate closely with Director, Philanthropy, to track and evaluate fund development activities,
  anticipate challenges and ensure commitments are met as proposed.
• Take lead on the grant calendar, preparing and submitting grants up to $10,000, balancing competing
  deadlines and priorities to meet deadlines and team goals.
• Assist with signature fundraising events, by helping to build meaningful engagement with donors,
  sponsors, and community supporters.
• Develop and steward a portfolio of third‑party and cause marketing events, strengthening
  partnerships and expanding visibility.
• Cultivate strong internal and external relationships by communicating clearly, listening actively, and
  representing the organization with professionalism and integrity.

Administrative & Donor Support:

• Maintain accurate records in Customer Relationship database (SalesForce) in accordance with
  organizational standards and best practices.
• Maintain and update donor database records, mailing lists, special announcements, and
  event invitations to ensure accurate and timely communications with donors and
  stakeholders.
• Attend and represent JA at community events as required, using discretion to identify
  opportunities for networking, relationship-building, and raising the organization’s profile.

Additional Duties and responsibilities:

• Represent JA in the community with professionalism, enthusiasm, and commitment to the
  organization’s mission.
• Support JA-organized events and activities contributing to their success and positive impact.
  Perform other duties as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a collaborative team approach.

Under the Marketing and Communications portfolio, the Philanthropy & Communications
Coordinator supports the development and execution of marketing and communications
initiatives that advance fundraising, donor stewardship, campaigns, and program awareness.
As the connector between philanthropy and marketing initiatives, this role helps ensure
consistent, engaging, and impact-driven messaging across channels.

Primary Responsibilities – Marketing & Communications (40%)

• Create and schedule social media content across multiple platforms to support campaigns,
  events, donor recognition, and program storytelling to build meaningful relationships and
  strengthen long-term engagement.
• Develop content for digital and print channels, including the website, e-newsletters, email
  campaigns, and donor communications.
• Create and adapt marketing templates and materials for fundraising initiatives, events, and
  stewardship activities, in alignment with brand standards.
• Assist in the creation of presentations and materials that effectively communicate the
  organization’s mission, programs, and impact.
• Gather and organize stories, testimonials, and photos that highlight the impact of JA programs.
• Maintain organized records of marketing and communications content
• Update and maintain mailing and distribution lists as needed
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Additional Duties and responsibilities:

• Support outreach initiatives for key stakeholder groups, including donors, sponsors,
  volunteers, and community partners.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to support outreach and promotional needs as
  requested.

Who We’re Looking For:

• A motivated, curious, and adaptable professional with a passion for fundraising and
  communications.
• A relationship-builder who thrives on connecting with people and representing the organization
  in the community.
• Someone who is proactive, organized, and ready to take ownership of designated projects while
  learning from experienced leaders.
• A creative thinker who uses attention to detail and operational excellence to achieve results.
• Someone inspired by impact, seeing their work translate into real benefits for the community
  and the youth JA serves.
• Relevant post-secondary education and/or experience is required with priority given to
  background in Non-Profit, Business, Communications or Marketing.
• 1-3 years of relevant experience and demonstrated track record of achievement
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Experience with customer relationship management systems such as Raiser’s Edge or
  SalesForce, or equivalent.
• Experience with marketing automation programs such as MailChimp
• Knowledge of WordPress an asset
• Knowledge of Canva or the Adobe Creative Suite an asset.
• Social Media experience in a professional setting is an asset.
• Current driver’s license and access to a vehicle required, as some regional travel is expected.
• Excellent organizational skills and proficient in time management.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and basic design experience required.
• Knowledge of South Western Ontario and charitable sector is an asset.
• The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and flexible to work within a team and independent
  work environment.

Why Join Us:

• Be part of a dynamic team and contribute directly to the growth and visibility of JA’s
  programs.
• Work in a role that bridges fundraising and marketing, offering broad exposure and skill
  development.
• Make a tangible difference by supporting initiatives that empower youth and strengthen
  the community.
• Learn, grow, and take ownership in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

This position will work primarily from a home office during regular business hours and some
evenings/ weekends anywhere in the JA South Western Ontario region; however, regular
attendance at our office location in London is required. Some regional travel is also required.
The successful candidate must have a suitable quiet environment from which to work, with a
desk and reliable and secure internet access. A laptop will be provided.

The salary range for this position is $55,0000 – $65,000 (commensurate with experience).
The successful candidate must undergo a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector
Search.

JA South Western Ontario is an equal opportunity employer. JA South Western Ontario will not
discriminate based on race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed
(religion), sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, disability, age (18
and over), record of offenses for which a pardon has been granted, marital status (including
same sex partners), family status, or any other grounds prohibited by the Ontario Human Rights
Code.

Are you ready to contribute to JA’s mission of inspiring and preparing youth to succeed in a
global economy? Please submit your cover letter and resume by email to
bgardiner@jaswo.org by January 26, 2026. The position will remain open until filled. We thank
all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

January 14, 2026

Job Opportunity –

Director, Philanthropy, Full Time
Salary range: $65,000-$80,000 (annual)

JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business. Through the delivery of hands-on, experiential learning in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness, JA empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills, manage their money, and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Since 1963, schools in South Western Ontario have relied on JA to prepare young people for success in an ever-changing global economy. JA South Western Ontario is responsible for the geographic area including the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and Niagara.

Role Summary

As Director, Philanthropy, you will:

• Shape and lead a high-performing resource development strategy aligned with JA’s bold mission and strategic plan.
• Build and steward a robust portfolio of corporate, foundation, and individual partners, driving sustainable revenue growth.
• Deliver compelling signature fundraising events that strengthen community engagement and elevate our brand.
• Champion a culture of philanthropy across the organization, while leading and developing a collaborative fundraising team.

This role collaborates closely with the President and CEO, the Director, Programs & Operations and the Director, Marketing & Communications

Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Fundraising Innovation

• Design and execute an integrated fund development strategy to grow both restricted and unrestricted revenue.
• Set and achieve ambitious annual and multi-year revenue targets across key streams: major gifts, sponsorships, grants, and events.
• Lead the planning and success of marquee events such as the London & District Business Hall of Fame and Waterloo Region Entrepreneur Hall of Fame.
• Build data-informed strategies to deepen donor engagement and long-term loyalty.

Donor and Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and manage a dynamic pipeline of prospective donors and partners, with a focus on strategic alignment and mutual impact.
• Lead on high-value cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities with top funders and corporate sponsors.
• Translate program outcomes into compelling, donor-centric narratives that inspire investment and long-term commitment.
• Build cross-functional internal alignment between programming, marketing, and philanthropy to maximize donor satisfaction and retention.

Team Leadership and Operational Excellence

• Recruit, coach, and lead a mission-driven development team, promoting a high-performance, values-based culture.
• Oversee departmental operations, including budgeting, forecasting, CRM management (Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge), and performance reporting.
• Establish and track success metrics for all fundraising channels and donor segments.
• Ensure compliance, transparency, and integrity in all donor agreements and fund allocations.

Executive Collaboration and Sector Leadership

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the President & CEO, contributing to executive decision-making, risk mitigation, and organizational planning.
• Actively represent JA South Western Ontario at stakeholder meetings, community events, and in national philanthropic initiatives as appropriate.
• Strengthen JA’s visibility and credibility among key audiences, including business leaders, philanthropists, and public sector partners.

What You Bring

• 8–10+ years of progressive fundraising experience, with a strong record of securing five- and six-figure gifts and partnerships.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to connect fundraising goals to mission impact.
• Demonstrated success in major gift cultivation, grant writing, sponsorship development, and fundraising event leadership.
• Proven experience leading high-functioning teams and managing cross-sector partnerships.
• Excellent communication, storytelling, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency with fundraising CRM systems (Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge preferred).
• Post-secondary education required; CFRE designation or progress toward completion is considered an asset.
• Knowledge of the Southwestern Ontario philanthropic and corporate landscape is a strong advantage.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle required; regional travel is expected.
• Adaptability to a hybrid work environment with access to a quiet home office setup

This full-time position (40.0 hours per week) is available immediately with regular business hours and some evenings/ weekends. This is a hybrid role; the successful candidate will be required to work at either our London or Waterloo office. Travel throughout southwestern Ontario will be required to meet with donors and other stakeholders. The successful candidate must have a suitable quiet environment from which to work, with a desk and reliable and secure internet access. A laptop will be provided. The position reports to the President & CEO.

The successful candidate must undergo a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.

JA South Western Ontario is an equal opportunity employer. JA SWO will not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed (religion), sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, disability, age (18 and over), record of offenses for which a pardon has been granted, marital status (including same sex partners), family status, or any other grounds prohibited by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by email to kgallant@jaswo.org by July 11, 2025. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

May 15, 2025

Job Opportunity –

Education Program Coordinator – Kitchener 
(16-week Contract; 35 hours/week; May – August 2025)

JA South Western Ontario is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business.  Through the delivery of hands-on, blended learning in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and work readiness, JA empowers young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work skills, manage their earnings, and secure better lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Since 1963, schools in South Western Ontario have relied on JA to prepare young people for success in an ever-changing global economy. JA South Western Ontario is responsible for the geographic area including the counties of Essex, Chatham-Kent, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Bruce, Grey, Wellington, Waterloo, Brant, Hamilton, Haldimand-Norfolk, and Niagara.

The JA Education Program Coordinator will play a key role in the planning and execution of JA’s entrepreneurship summer camp activities and will also assist in the coordination and execution of other JA in-school programs and events. In May and June, the individual will work directly with JA’s full-time Program Management staff to plan and prepare all necessary components for 4 week-long summer day camps to take place during July and August and will also be called upon to support other JA program activities and events. In July and August, the Education Program Coordinator will take a lead role in the execution of JA’s summer camp program – JA Camp StartUp, which involves campers, ages 8-13, in creating and managing their own small business for a week.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assisting full-time JA Program Management staff with:  
• Scheduling field trip type activities (ex. Corporate tours) and sales day locations for summer camps 
• Reviewing and revising summer camp curriculum documents and resources 
• Liaising with parents, vendors, and other summer camp partners 
• Scheduling and training volunteer leaders-in-training for summer camps 
• Ensuring all resources are in place for successful summer camps 
• Supervising, facilitating, and participating in camp program activities with campers 8-13 years old 
• Providing leadership for JA Camp StartUp camp counsellors (2) 
• Training and supporting summer camp counsellors and volunteer leaders-in-training 
• Working in cooperation with other Camp Counsellors to ensure campers are safe, while maintaining adequate health and hygiene measures 
• Building relationships with campers by demonstrating compassion, empathy, and understanding 
• Assisting with camp set up and tear down activities, such as light cleaning, room preparation, organizing supplies/ materials, etc. 
• Supporting other JA program events and activities (ex. coordinating and/or facilitating in-school programs and supporting online events) 
• Other duties as assigned 

Skills/Qualifications

• Ability to work well with children and parents 
• Ability to communicate effectively with parents, other Camp Staff, and campers 
• Ability to motivate others in learning new skills 
• Ability to demonstrate responsible, ethical, and professional conduct 
• Ability to provide support and instruction to others 
• Experience in education or in working with children is an asset 
• Driver’s License and access to a vehicle is an asset 

This contract position (35.0 hours per week) is funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program. Pay is set at $17.65/hour. You must be between 15 and 30 and be legally entitled to work in Canada to apply. The successful candidate must be available to work 8:30 – 5:30pm, Monday to Friday from May 5 to August 22, 2025. Some work from home will be possible during May/ June, however you may be required at various school or other locations in the Kitchener-Waterloo area for programs or other events. On-site work will be required during JA Camp StartUp weeks in July and August at the camp location – Church of the Good Sheppard, 116 Queen Street N, Kitchener. 

JA South Western Ontario is committed to a diverse, inclusive, equitable and accessible environment where differences are valued and respected in all areas of our business.  We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.  JA South Western Ontario will not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed (religion), sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, disability, age (18 and over), record of offenses for which a pardon has been granted, marital status (including same sex partners), family status, or any other grounds prohibited by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Are you ready to be a JA Education Program Counsellor? Please email your Resume and Cover Letter to John Wilson at jwilson@jaswo.org. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.  

April 17, 2025