Community Engagement Specialist

FACT (Family and Community Together) is a distinguished nonprofit organization committed to empowering families, youth, and communities navigating disability systems with the ultimate goal of advocating for disability justice and enacting meaningful policy change. With a strong foundation in peer support, accessible training programs, resource development, and leadership cultivation, FACT envisions a future where communities are inclusive and accessible, and where the self-determination of people with disabilities is fully supported and respected. Operating primarily within Oregon, FACT extends its services across several counties, including Columbia County, the Columbia Gorge, and eastern Oregon.

The organization focuses on comprehensive support breeding a network of connected services such as one-on-one peer support, focused training sessions and conferences related to early childhood, special education, developmental disabilities, and adult transitions. FACT also hosts self-paced training modules, provides multilingual resource materials in languages including Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese, and engages in community assessments and advocacy work. This allows families and individuals to gain seamless access to relevant information and assistance tailored to their specific needs in their communities.

The Community Engagement Specialist position is a pivotal role within FACT, reporting directly to the Program Manager. This role is designed for individuals passionate about building deep community connections and fostering trust while advancing the organization’s mission with utmost professionalism and integrity. The specialist’s primary responsibility is to strengthen FACT’s community presence, build lasting relationships, and connect families with necessary support systems in their assigned regions. These regions may include Columbia County, the Columbia Gorge, and various parts of eastern Oregon, with priority counties such as Columbia, Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Gilliam, Morrow, Umatilla, and Union.

Working approximately 15 to 20 hours per week, this remote-first role involves regular travel within the assigned region to attend community events, partner meetings, and outreach activities to ensure active and meaningful engagement with local families and community organizations. Remote work is balanced with the necessity of maintaining a trusting, consistent presence on the ground. The compensation for this role ranges from $24.00 to $28.50 per hour, reflecting the value placed on community-centered expertise and commitment.

In this capacity, the Community Engagement Specialist collaborates closely with the Program Manager to design and implement a community engagement plan tailored to the unique needs and characteristics of their region. The specialist fosters relationships not only with families but also with local community organizations, schools, educational service districts, tribal councils, and county agencies, enhancing the flow of information and resources. They coordinate activities aimed at building awareness about disability, FACT’s services, and the broader goals of disability justice.

The role also entails supporting families and community partners by connecting them with FACT’s support services, responding promptly to referrals, and providing direct assistance in meetings when necessary. Organizational support responsibilities include meticulous data collection and documentation, participation in team meetings and training sessions, and contributing to a culture of collaboration and responsiveness in alignment with FACT’s values.

Ideal candidates bring a commitment to FACT’s mission of disability justice and self-determination, coupled with experience or willingness to learn about disability-related systems and family-centered practices. Strong communication skills, community outreach experience, regional knowledge or connection, and proficiency with technology are all essential. Bilingual skills are valued and may come with additional compensation according to FACT’s policies. Above all, the specialist must possess adaptability, organizational skills, and a drive to follow through on commitments, ensuring sustained, positive impact in the communities they serve.