Community Impact Specialist

Overview:

Twin Cities Development Association, Inc. (TCD) is seeking a dynamic and driven Community Impact Specialist to lead and support community and economic development efforts across Western Nebraska. This position plays a vital role in working alongside local governments, businesses, and organizations to drive positive change through business growth, marketing and events, grant writing, housing initiatives, and regional collaboration.

This is a highly visible, relationship-centered position ideal for someone passionate about rural community success and economic vibrancy.

Key Responsibilities:

Community & Economic Development Support

• Develop and implement community programs that address local needs and challenges.
• Collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance program reach and impact.
• Retain and grow both municipal and county membership.
• Partner with communities across the region to support business retention, and expansion (BRE) initiatives.
• Collaborate with GSLI on business attraction initiatives and submit RFIs and RFPs.
• Assist cities with Leadership Certified Community (LCC) and Economic Development Certified Community (EDCC) certifications.
• Support city staff and representatives with appropriate resources.
• Support community-led grassroots development campaigns and strategic plans.

Event Support

• Organize and promote economic development events and community programming such as community garage sales, trunk or treats, craft fairs, summer bashes, and holiday light tours.

Regional Collaboration & Facilitation

• Lead the coordination of the Western Nebraska Economic Development (WNED) group, including scheduling, agenda setting, and facilitating regular meetings.
• Maintain strong relationships with economic development professionals, local leaders, and regional stakeholders.

Grant Development & Administration

• Research, write, and manage in-house grants that support TCD’s mission and programming.
• Provide fee-based grant finding, writing, and reporting services to TCD members and partners.
• Track deadlines, ensure compliance with funder requirements, and provide timely reporting and documentation.

Housing Fund Administration

• Manage the Rural Workforce Housing Revolving Loan Fund to support new construction and rehabilitation projects.
• Evaluate housing project proposals, review budgets, track repayments, and ensure compliance with fund guidelines.
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to developers and community housing partners.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economic Development, Marketing, Urban Planning, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in community development, event coordination, grant writing, or economic development.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships across sectors.
• Knowledge of rural community issues and strategies for economic revitalization.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project/grant management tools.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, often with minimal supervision.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive hourly wage, commensurate with experience.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and leadership growth.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in rural communities throughout Western Nebraska.