Public Relations - Community Engagement Specialist at Progressive Directions, Inc – Clarksville, Tennessee

About Us

Progressive Directions (PDI) is dedicated to promoting independence, inclusion, and meaningful community engagement for people with disabilities. Through programs like Common Ground Café, Buddy Ball Special Needs Athletic League, and PDI Thrift Store, we create opportunities that make a real difference. If you’re creative, organized, energetic, and passionate about serving others, this role was made for you.

Position Summary

The Community Engagement Specialist supports the PR and Community Engagement team in promoting a positive public image for PDI and our programs. This dynamic, highly collaborative role blends:

• Social media management
• Content creation
• Event planning
• Community engagement
• Administrative coordination
• Flexible schedule required (will require some evenings and weekends during event times)

This is not a desk-only job. You’ll be in the community, behind the camera, at events, online, and helping the VP of PR as needed.

What You’ll Be Helping With

• Manage and grow multiple platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Google, YouTube, etc.)
• Develop and execute a proactive content calendar
• Engage with followers and monitor activity
• Analyze performance metrics and optimize content
• Promote Common Ground Café, Buddy Ball, and PDI Thrift Store across local community pages

• Create digital and print marketing materials aligned with PDI’s mission
• Capture and edit photos and videos (events, human-interest stories, program highlights)
• Design content for web, social, brochures, newsletters, email blasts, signage, and more
• Assist with website updates
• Maintain brand consistency across all platforms

• Support planning and execution of multiple annual events
• Assist with logistics: venues, volunteers, catering, RSVPs
• Capture and publish event highlights
• Help with setup, décor, and breakdown

• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams
• Build relationships with staff, clients, community leaders, and local businesses
• Attend and support community and fundraising events
• Assist with surveys, grants, and public engagement initiatives

• Create hype videos and social content
• Assist with registration, uniforms, and equipment
• Help with event setup and breakdown

• Manage Employee of the Month program
• Coordinate appreciation events and service awards
• Create certificates and recognition materials

• Manage digital asset organization
• Research community events and industry trends
• Assist with inventory and promotional materials
• Prepare purchase orders, thank-you letters, and donation logs

Experience

• Minimum 2 years in social media, marketing, nonprofit work, photography/videography, or event planning
• Experience managing multiple social platforms
• Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CapCut, or similar tools preferred
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred
• Fundraising experience is a plus

• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Strong writing and storytelling ability
• Creative, proactive, and adaptable
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines
• Strong visual communication skills

Requirements

• Valid unrestricted driver’s license
• Clear background check and driving record
• Negative Drug Test
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed

Work Environment

• Office-based with significant time in the community
• Event environments may vary in noise and temperature

Why Join PDI?

• Mission-driven organization making real impact
• Creative, collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to tell meaningful stories
• Community-centered culture
• Variety in daily work, no two days look the same

Progressive Directions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment is at-will.