Friday, January 29, 2010

2010 Harvest Market Applications Are Available


Come one, come all. The 2010 Harvest Market season will soon be upon us, so this season's applications are available for all who are interested and that fit with this year's guidelines. Download Application.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Update Meeting on Downtown Streetscape Construction Project to be Held February 9

Review of Phase 3 and Preview of Phase 4 to Be Presented

The public is invited to attend a special update meeting regarding the Downtown Streetscape Construction project on Tuesday, February 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Grand Victoria Casino’s Fox River Room, located at 250 S. Grove Ave. in Downtown Elgin.

Brian Fairwood, TranSystems Project Director, will present a review of Phase 3 construction, including a “before and after” presentation, and a preview of Phase 4, including the construction schedule for 2010. Representatives from TranSystems, the City and the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) will be available to answer questions.

Interested citizens are encouraged to sign up for weekly construction updates sent via email at www.DowntownElgin.com or visit www.DowntownElgin.info to stay up-to-date on downtown traffic detours, street closures and other important information.

For more information, please contact the DNA at (847) 488-1456 or email downtownelgin@gmail.com.

Monday, January 25, 2010

DNA Seeks Promotions Coordinator

POSITION OPENING

Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin
Promotions Coordinator


SUMMARY:

The Promotions Coordinator plans, organizes, markets and executes successful special events and promotional activities for Downtown Elgin. The Coordinator also utilizes knowledge of current graphic design software to produce compelling visual and written content for ads, promotions, website, and social networking purposes.

These special events include but are not limited to the July 4th Parade, Harvest Market, the Downtown Elgin Car & AFV Show and Window Wonderland. Promotional activities include but are not limited to restaurant/retail promotions coordinated with performances at the Hemmens Cultural Center or other downtown festivals and events, hosting exhibit booths and creating materials promoting Downtown at non-DNA functions, neighborhood outreach tours, etc.

This is a full-time position with a flexible schedule and many evening and weekend hours.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

· Works collaboratively with volunteer committees to plan, organize and execute DNA special events and promotional activities.

· Coordinates and hosts all volunteer event committee meetings; works with committee chairs to create agendas and other meeting materials.

· Collaborates with Executive Director and volunteer committees to provide in-house graphic design and written content for all flyers/posters, invitations, event branding materials, email campaigns, website content and other promotional materials.

· Works closely with ED to create and manage special event budgets; ensures event committees operate within established budgetary restrictions.

· Creates and manages cost effective marketing and promotional strategies for special event print, broadcast and social media, collaborating with other organizations and special events when applicable.

· Writes and distributes press releases and other communications materials; posts press releases and events to local web sites as well DNA’s web site and social media sites.

· Responsible for maintaining, editing and managing DNA website and all electronic media including weekly e-newsletter and all social media networking sites.

· Solicits potential sponsors for DNA special events; creates and distributes sponsor packets that are designed for each event.

· Develops and enhances working relationships with City staff, various organizations, non-profit groups, service clubs and businesses.

· Prepares written reports, presentations and evaluations on special events.

· Other tasks and responsibilities as assigned.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

· Ability to manage constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
· Proactive; anticipates needs and works to meet them.
· Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
· Professional appearance and demeanor.
· Ability to manage priorities and workflow.
· Reliable and punctual.
· Excellent computer skills.
· Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Publisher.
· Proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
· Familiarity with website content management systems and social media applications
· Ability to lift and carry up to 45lbs.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

· Bachelors degree in advertising, graphic design, marketing, communications or related field or equivalent experience.
· 1-2 years graphic design and/or marketing work experience.
· Not-for-profit experience preferred, but not required.


WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The primary duties of this job are performed in a professional office environment or an outdoor environment that may include working in adverse weather conditions. Employees are expected to utilize their personal vehicles for the transport of equipment and materials related to special event set-up and take-down.


SALARY & BENEFITS:

This is a full-time position with an annual salary commensurate to experience. DNA pays 80% of the employee’s premium for health, dental, and life insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield.

To apply for this position, please send an email with a cover letter, resume and list of references attached by Friday, February 12 to:

Tonya Hudson
Executive Director
Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin
thudson@elginil.org

We are not accepting applications by mail. For questions on this position, please call the DNA Office at (847) 488-1456.