Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network
Job Description
Job Title
Grant Writer/Project Consultant
Department
Grants & Community Engagement
Reporting Structure
Chief Medical Officer
Job Summary
Under the general supervision of the Grants Manager, the Grant Writer is responsible for researching, writing, and submitting compelling grant proposals to secure funding for DWIHN's various behavioral health initiatives. Working under the guidance of the Grants Manager, this role will contribute to the financial sustainability of the organization by identifying funding opportunities, developing persuasive narratives, and ensuring proposals meet all funder requirements. The Grant Writer will collaborate with internal stakeholders to gather necessary information and articulate the impact of DWIHN's programs.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Grant Proposal Development
- Research and identifies potential grant funding opportunities from federal, state, local, and private foundations that align with DWIHN's mission and strategic goals.
- Writes high-quality, persuasive grant proposals, including letters of inquiry, full proposals, and continuation reports, from initial draft to final submission.
- Develops clear, concise, and compelling narratives that articulate program needs, goals, objectives, methodologies, and expected outcomes.
- Collaborates closely with the Grants Manager, program staff, and clinical experts to gather accurate and relevant data, program details, and budget information.
- Tailors proposals to meet the specific guidelines and priorities of each prospective funder.
- Develops and maintains a library of grant-related materials, including organizational history, program descriptions, statistical data, and boilerplate content.
- Assists in the development of grant budgets in collaboration with the Grants Manager and program teams.
- Funder Relations and Compliance
- Assists the Grants Manager in maintaining positive relationships with current and prospective funders.
- Ensures all submitted proposals adhere strictly to funder guidelines, formatting, and submission requirements.
- Keeps abreast of changes in grant funding trends and best practices in grant writing.
- Contributes to the development of grant reports by providing narrative sections and supporting documentation, as needed.
- Collaboration and Support
- Works collaboratively with program directors, clinical staff, and administrative personnel to gather information and ensure proposal accuracy and relevance.
- Participates in meetings to discuss grant opportunities, project needs, and proposal strategies.
- Provides support to the Grants Manager in various grant-related tasks and administrative duties as assigned.
- Stays informed about DWIHN's programs, services, and community impact.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSA’S):
Grant Writing & Research:
- Exceptional proficiency in grant writing, with a strong portfolio demonstrating successful proposals.
- Proven ability to research and identify grant opportunities from diverse funding sources.
- In-depth understanding of grant proposal components: needs statements, goals/objectives, methods/activities, evaluation plans, budgets, and organizational capacity.
- Familiarity with common grant reporting requirements and data collection for program evaluation.
- Knowledge of the grant funding landscape, particularly as it pertains to behavioral health and social services.
Communication & Interpersonal:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for persuasive and engaging writing.
- Strong ability to synthesize complex information into clear, concise, and understandable language.
- Active listening skills to effectively gather information from stakeholders.
- Interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and individuals.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously with minimal supervision.
Organizational & Technical:
- Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to meet strict deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Ability to learn and utilize grant research databases and software.
- Familiarity with behavioral health principles and practices is a strong asset.
- Understanding of the DWIHN provider network and community resources is beneficial.
Required Education & Experience:
A bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.Two (2) to three (3) years of professional experience in grant writing and/or fundraising, with a demonstrated track record of securing grant funding.Experience writing proposals for non-profit organizations, preferably in the health or human services sector.
Preferred Experience:
Experience writing grants for government agencies (federal, state, local).Familiarity with SAMHSA grant requirements.Experience working within a behavioral health or community mental health setting.Knowledge of the Michigan Mental Health Code and MDHHS policies.
Required License(s)
A valid State of Michigan Driver’s License with a safe and acceptable driving record is preferred, as occasional travel to meet with program staff or funders may be required
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is usually performed in an office setting but may require the employee to drive to different sites throughout Wayne County and the State of Michigan to meet with partners or oversee program activities. This position can work remotely with supervisory approval. The incumbent in this position may be required to attend in-person events on a regular basis.
EEOC Statement
DWIHN is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to fair, consistent, and merit-based hiring practices. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, local law.
Employment decisions are based solely on job-related qualifications, demonstrated competencies, and organizational needs. DWIHN maintains policies and procedures designed to ensure that recruitment, selection, promotion and all other employment actions are conducted in a manner that is objective, equitable and non-discriminatory.
Human Resources Signature:
Date:
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