Event & Communications Associate

Overview

Do you want to make a tangible difference for the autism community?

Washington Autism Alliance (WAA) is seeking a highly adaptable, people-centered, and results-driven Event & Communications Associate to support the revival of our keystone community event,
Day Out for Autism
. In this role, you will play a vital part in event operations and in executing clear, engaging communications with attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners.

Our Why: Founded in 2007, Washington Autism Alliance was catalyzed by a bold vision: a future in which all families in Washington State have access to the resources they need to support the well-being of loved ones with autism.

Nearly 20 years later, we remain deeply committed to our mission of expanding access to healthcare, education, and essential services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across Washington State.

WAA’s team culture is rooted in relationship-building, collaboration, compassion, dedication, and resilience. We are seeking a team member who shares these values and is excited to contribute during this three-month contracted term.

The Event & Communications Associate plays a vital role in planning and executing WAA’s signature resource and fun fair, Day Out for Autism. This hybrid, fast-paced position focuses on event coordination, internal and external communications, operational support, and cross-team collaboration.

The ideal candidate is adaptable, highly motivated, detail-oriented, and energized by both event logistics and community-centered communications.

Day Out for Autism is WAA’s signature community celebration honoring and celebrating individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, and their families, in a welcoming, sensory-friendly environment filled with games, music, performances, resources, and community partners.

It’s a joyful day dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating space for connection, belonging, and fun. In short, this is a resource and fun fair that engages sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and community attendees!

Click below to explore the details.

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• Event Coordination
• Collaborate closely with team members to understand event scope, timelines, and goals
• Monitor deadlines and communication channels to ensure event operations and outreach remain on schedule
• Coordinate and communicate with vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and community stakeholders via email, phone, and in-person meetings
• Organize and manage donation drives for needed items (snacks, water)
• Coordinate collection, sorting, and distribution of donated items
• Maintain accurate records of donations received

• Administrative & Event Support
• Perform administrative duties, including filing, data entry, and maintaining organized digital systems
• Maintain contact reports with current and prospective partners, ensuring timely data entry (within 24 hours) in accordance with office policy
• Support donor database maintenance with accurate and up-to-date information
• Attend Day Out for Autism on April 18 (required)
• Complete additional duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (nonprofit management, marketing, communications) preferred but not required
• One year of event planning or event support experience preferred
• Campaign or outreach experience preferred
• Strong interest in event planning and community engagement
• Genuine interest in supporting individuals and families affected by autism
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Experience working with diverse communities is a plus
• Familiarity with donor management systems (Little Green Light or similar), Mailchimp, or related tools preferred
• Reliable transportation for off-site meetings and events
• Schedule flexibility for meetings and event attendance
• Part-time:
  20 hours per week
• Hourly rate: $24.00–$27.00, commensurate with experience
• 3-month contract (Feb-April)

Please submit your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, be sure to address the following:

• Why are you interested in working with Washington Autism Alliance?
• What unique strengths would you bring to our team to help make Day Out for Autism a success?
• How has your previous experience prepared you for this role?

(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).