Event Support Specialist

Norfolk, VA, USA|

Job Overview

Compensation

Hourly

Range $21.63 - $28.84

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Professional Development

Retirement Plan

flexible schedule

volunteer opportunities

Job Description

ForKids is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of homeless children and families by providing essential services such as shelter, education, and advocacy. The organization’s mission focuses on creating stable and permanent homes for vulnerable populations while fostering community involvement and support. ForKids partners with various community stakeholders, artists, donors, and volunteers to deliver innovative programs and impactful fundraising events that enhance its outreach and service capabilities. Having established a reputable presence in the nonprofit sector, ForKids is continuously working towards expanding its influence and resource base to serve more individuals in need.

The role of Event Support Specialist at ForKids is pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of the organization's fundraising and community engagement initiatives. This position functions primarily on the logistical and operational aspects of event management, rather than the creative planning process. The specialist will coordinate the planning and logistical details for a variety of events such as the Children’s Art Auction, Field Day, Annual Tree Lighting, Day of Caring, and various investor and community partner forums. These events are designed not only to raise funds but also to cultivate donor relationships and increase public awareness about ForKids' mission and initiatives.

In this role, the Event Support Specialist collaborates closely with members of the Development, Education, and Marketing teams, along with board members, volunteers, artists, donors, and external vendors. The specialist is responsible for managing contracts, vendor relations, event timelines, budgets, and all related administrative duties that contribute to the flawless execution of events. This position requires a strong focus on detail, scheduling, and organizational effectiveness to ensure high-quality experiences for all stakeholders involved.

The specialist also plays a crucial role in supporting community engagement activities such as coordinating volunteer participation, assisting in donor meetings and agency tours, and providing exceptional customer service aligned with the agency’s values. Additionally, the specialist manages the logistical components of art auction production including coordination with artists and volunteers, scheduling photography and artwork displays, and handling transportation and framing logistics.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful community impact through the operational success of key fundraising events. Candidates with prior experience in event management, nonprofit fundraising, or related fields who possess strong organizational and communication skills will find this role both challenging and rewarding. The Event Support Specialist will operate within a fast-paced environment, requiring adaptability, professionalism, and a commitment to the mission of ForKids. While specific employment terms such as salary are not disclosed here, the position typically aligns with nonprofit sector standards and includes opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team environment.

Job Requirements

Valid driver's license with no more than three minor violations and/or accidents within the past three years and no major moving violations during that period
ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds
ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, climb stairs, and remain active for extended periods during events
ability to work evenings, weekends, and occasional nontraditional hours as required

Job Qualifications

Minimum of two to three years of experience in event planning, special events, fundraising, corporate relations, or a related field
nonprofit experience preferred
experience managing complex events and multiple projects simultaneously preferred
strong project management and organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
excellent interpersonal, relationship-building, and networking skills
ability to maintain a high level of poise and professionalism
strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills
knowledge of fundraising, donor cultivation, stewardship, and event management best practices
ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse stakeholders
professional judgment, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality
flexible and adaptable with a willingness to adjust priorities when needed
proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and donor/event management software

Job Duties

Coordinate logistics for fundraising events, donor receptions, auction packages, volunteer activities, and agency functions
assist with the negotiation and execution of event-related contracts, including venues, catering, audio-visual services, event rentals, and other vendors as needed
develop and maintain event timelines, checklists, production schedules, and logistical plans
process purchase requests and invoices, submit purchase orders, track event expenses, maintain accurate vendor records, contracts, and event documentation
oversee on-site event setup, production, guest experience and services, and breakdown to ensure a positive and welcoming experience for attendees
prepare regular event status updates, presentations, and post-event evaluations, including recommendations for continuous improvement and best practices
coordinate and schedule Art Auction Committee meetings and serve as committee secretary by preparing agendas, recording meeting minutes, and tracking action items and follow-up activities