GAR Foundation is seeking a creative and experienced communicator who can help us build awareness of and broad support for our work to advance systemic solutions that make Greater Akron a better place for all. The ideal candidate is a fast learner who can shape clear and compelling messages from often complicated information and drive engagement and understanding. The communicator we seek will be steeped in our grantmaking work so they can create content that influences civic leaders, decision-makers, and other funders to join us in our work. They will also help us protect and build the Foundation’s reputation as a thought leader and strategic grantmaker, and advance the general understanding of challenges and successes within Greater Akron’s nonprofit sector.
ABOUT GAR FOUNDATION
GAR Foundation is a private foundation based in Akron, Ohio, with roughly $200 million in endowment assets. Established in 1967, our mission is to help Akron become smarter, stronger, and more vibrant. Each year, we make strategic grants of approximately $7 million across our focus areas: Education; Economic, Workforce, and Community Development; Arts and Culture; and Basic Needs. We support “systems work”—identifying failures or missed opportunities in existing systems (i.e., education, workforce development, etc.), connecting partners, and leveraging other resources to drive better outcomes and deeper impact. Our vision is an Akron where every child gets a great start in life and benefits from a well-rounded education; where companies and opportunities grow in a talent-rich environment; where pathways to prosperity are equitable, accessible, and easily navigated by everyone; where all residents and businesses feel connected to Greater Akron, to their neighbors and fellow citizens and are energized by its creative assets, its abundant opportunities, and its commitment to shared prosperity.
SPECIFICS OF THE ROLE
The what: This is a salaried, full-time (40 hours a week) position. The role’s most essential function is the creation of thoughtful written and visual content that conveys GAR Foundation’s systems change grantmaking work. The ideal candidate will have excellent skills in understanding, distilling, and communicating complex topics as written and visual content. Messaging must be tailored to a variety of audiences, such as the nonprofit community in Greater Akron, legislators, national funders, our board, the media, and the general public.
A secondary function is to assist Foundation staff in creating thoughtful convenings and meaningful experiences for stakeholders. The Foundation regularly brings together grantees and others for shared learning and exploration. Excellent convenings that provide value to participants and advance strategic work do not happen by accident. Instead, they result from careful planning, preparation, and foresight. The Strategic Communications Manager will support meeting design, outreach strategies, and the development of engaging content to achieve meeting objectives. The Strategic Communications Manager will assist in all facets of this work to create the conditions for top-quality convenings.
The who: The Strategic Communications Manager will possess:
- Exceptional ability to distill nuanced topics into simple, clear messages • Superior written communication skills and demonstrated expertise in writing for broad and narrow audiences
- The ability to generate engaging, visually appealing content (PowerPoint presentations, infographics,video content, etc.)
- The ability to work independently, drawing on their own expertise but remaining open to feedback
- Strong project management skills, including initiative, planning and implementing work, and meeting deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to create productive and healthy relationships
- A high degree of self-awareness relative to their strengths and opportunities for growth
- A growth mindset and flexibility in adapting to dynamic work
- A working knowledge of current desktop and online publishing software and content creation platforms, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Canva (or Adobe Creative Cloud), Constant Contact (or similar e-blast platforms), WordPress, and Google Analytics.
Additionally, we are seeking someone with the following education and experience:
- A Master’s or Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a relevant field such as Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, or Organizational Development
- At least 5 to 7 years of experience in a professional communications, journalism, or public policy role
- Experience working collaboratively with teams, preferably including partners internal and external to the organization
- Experience managing vendors, consultants, or contractors
- Experience working in a communications agency, philanthropic organization, or nonprofit is strongly preferred
The how: The Strategic Communications Manager will implement and guide all strategic communications work for the Foundation. They must be an organized self-starter who can work independently, prioritizing work and driving projects from ideation to completion. The manager can rely on an external communications firm and various vendors to support the work. They must be adept in managing relationships with contractors to accomplish communications objectives and meet deadlines successfully.
Work conducted in-house by the Strategic Communications Manager would be inclusive of but not limited to:
- Development and stewarding of a communications strategy in conjunction with Foundation staff
- Development of content that translates systems grantmaking into easily digestible messages
- Shaping of convenings, in conjunction with Foundation staff
- Management of the Foundation website, currently in redevelopment
- Development of slide decks and other supportive communications for meetings and convenings
- Preparation of press releases
Work conducted by an external firm under the supervision of the Strategic Communications Manager may include:
- Social media posts
- Videography and special photography projects
- Preparation of newsletter
- Media relations to achieve optimal story placement
The why: The overall strategic scope of the role is to:
- Build awareness of and broad support for our grantmaking objectives to influence other potential funders and decision-makers to join us in the work;
- Protect and build the Foundation’s reputation as a thought leader and strategic grantmaker in Greater Akron; and
- Advance the general understanding of challenges and successes within Greater Akron’s nonprofit sector.
The where: GAR Foundation offers a hybrid work environment. The Strategic Communications Manager is expected to be present with the GAR team three days a week in our office in downtown Akron, Ohio, and can work the other two days remotely. This is consistent for all Staff.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
GAR Foundation is a fast-paced, flexible, and fun place to work. Our small staff is collaborative and supportive of one another, and we come to work each day energized to advance the Foundation’s mission to make Akron smarter, stronger, and more vibrant. Our team members value learning and growth, and we support their development through a generous allowance for professional development experiences. We are looking to work with someone who shares our five core values:
- Curiosity – We continuously ask questions and learn about community issues and people’s experiences.
- Equity – We deal fairly and equitably with all parties, meeting people where they are.
- Humility – We are aware of our place and role (both the positives and negatives of it).
- Collaboration – We work jointly with partners.
- Innovation – We are original and creative in out
We also offer competitive compensation and benefits, including:
- Compensation ranging from $70,000 – $80,000, commensurate with experience
- Health, dental, and vision coverage for employee and eligible family members
- Participation in GAR’s employer-funded Health Savings Account program
- 10 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) in the first two years, with increased PTO in the third year
- 9 paid holidays per year
- Eligibility for GAR Foundation’s 401k retirement savings program
- Participation in GAR Foundation’s matching gift program whereby GAR will match your charitable contributions to eligible organizations
Position reports to: The Senior Vice President, with secondary direction from the President
Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and a digital portfolio of relevant communications work to [email protected]. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The first round of interviews will begin in March. Please, no calls or emails other than to the designated email address.
GAR Foundation is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. We embrace and celebrate diversity and strive to create genuine belonging for all.
GAR Foundation
Related jobs:
Job Description:
Join the creative team behind Something Greater, a hybrid drama/music video student thesis project by director Brett Kilheffer, featuring music from Josh Kain. This 8-minute short film blends cinematic storytelling with music video aesthetics and explores themes of redemption, addiction, fatherhood, and second chances.
The production takes place in the LA area and is looking for passionate, collaborative crew members interested in working on an emotionally resonant, visually rich student film.
Job Responsibilities:
-
Production Designer: Provide vision and create environments that reflect the mood and story.
-
BTS Photographer: Capture high-quality behind-the-scenes content.
-
Set Dresser: Help build and dress sets for each scene.
-
Grips: Assist with rigging, setup, and support for the camera and lighting departments.
-
Production Assistant (PA): Support all departments and help ensure smooth operations on set.
Requirements:
-
Availability from June 18 to 22
-
Based in or able to work locally in the LA area
-
Resume and/or reel required for Production Designer and BTS Photographer roles
-
Enthusiastic team player with a collaborative spirit
Compensation:
-
Copy/Credit/Meals
-
Unpaid (Student Thesis)
Job Description
A mini-documentary rooted in a powerful family history is seeking passionate crew members to join a meaningful low-budget project. The film will explore the legacy of Dr. James Still, a Black doctor known as “the doctor of the pines,” and William Still, a pivotal figure in the Underground Railroad and a supporter of Harriet Tubman. This intimate and historical storytelling piece needs creative collaborators who are eager to bring depth and authenticity to Black history through documentary filmmaking.
Job Responsibilities
-
Set up and operate cameras for on-location interviews and B-roll
-
Manage lighting equipment to ensure proper tone and mood for various scenes
-
Execute color correction and grading to achieve consistent visual storytelling
-
Edit raw footage into cohesive and emotionally resonant segments
Requirements
-
Prior experience in documentary production preferred
-
Strong interest in historical and cultural storytelling
-
Ability to work with minimal resources and maintain quality
-
Collaborative spirit and creative problem-solving skills
-
Access to personal equipment is a plus
Compensation
-
Low-budget production (passion project)
-
Meals and credit provided
-
Ideal for individuals looking to build a meaningful portfolio
Job Description
A surreal, festival-driven psychological horror short film is seeking dedicated crew members to help bring an intense, symbolic story to life. Titled Lost in Nightmares, this indie project explores grief, obsession, and fractured reality through striking visual storytelling. Ideal for creatives looking to gain IMDb credit, portfolio material, and experience with meaningful, genre-defying work.
Job Responsibilities
Grip:
-
Assist with camera support and lighting setup
-
Ensure safe and efficient execution of technical on-set operations
Assistant Director (AD):
-
Oversee on-set scheduling and crew coordination
-
Maintain workflow and ensure production stays on track
Script Supervisor:
-
Track continuity, script changes, and scene coverage
-
Work closely with the director to ensure script integrity during filming
Requirements
-
Passion for indie film and surreal storytelling
-
Collaborative and punctual team player
-
Previous experience preferred but not mandatory
-
Must be available for shoot dates (TBD)
-
Strong interest in building portfolio content and film festival exposure
Compensation
-
Unpaid role
-
IMDb credit
-
On-set meals provided
-
Portfolio-building opportunity on a stylized, cinematic short
Job Description
A stylized narrative short film production in Los Angeles is seeking a 1st Assistant Director and a Grip to join the overnight shoot crew. This unpaid opportunity offers valuable experience and creative collaboration with a passionate team on an artistic project. Ideal for crew members looking to build their portfolios and gain set hours.
Job Responsibilities
Assistant Director (1st AD):
-
Oversee shoot schedule and manage on-set coordination
-
Keep production on track and support communication between departments
-
Lead call times and ensure team readiness throughout the night
Grip:
-
Support camera and lighting departments with gear setup and movement
-
Ensure safety on set during technical operations
-
Assist with rigging, stands, and general production needs
Requirements
-
Available overnight June 10–11, from 6 PM to 3 AM
-
Based in or able to work in Los Angeles
-
Enthusiastic and collaborative mindset
-
Prior experience on set preferred
Compensation
-
Unpaid (credit and portfolio material provided)
-
Opportunity to work on a stylized narrative film project
-
Gain hands-on production experience with a dedicated crew
Job Description
A commercial production is hiring experienced, local crew members for a one-day shoot in Blacksburg, Virginia. The shoot will take place across two locations and is open only to local hires. This is a great opportunity for professionals in lighting, camera, and production to work on a fast-paced commercial set.
Job Responsibilities
-
Execute lighting setup and support on set (Gaffer/Lighting Technician)
-
Manage camera focus and assist with lens changes and gear (1st AC)
-
Support general production operations, errands, and crew coordination (PA)
-
Ensure timely arrival and efficient execution of tasks
Requirements
-
Local to Blacksburg, VA
-
Relevant on-set experience in assigned role
-
Production Assistants must have a personal vehicle
-
Availability for the full shoot day
-
Reel and gear list preferred (if applicable)
Compensation
-
Gaffer/Lighting Technician: $550/day
-
1st Assistant Camera (1st AC): $400/day
-
Production Assistant (PA): $375/day
Job Description
A captivating psychological horror short film is looking for three motivated and reliable Production Assistants to support various departments during filming. Titled LOST IN NIGHTMARES, the project explores themes of grief and obsession in a surreal and emotionally gripping story. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for those looking to gain hands-on experience in film production and earn IMDb credit.
Job Responsibilities
-
Assist with on-set logistics including setup, takedown, and organization
-
Support crew members across departments (camera, art, wardrobe, etc.)
-
Help manage crowd control, background talent, and equipment
-
Run errands and perform general tasks as directed by AD or UPM
-
Maintain a positive, can-do attitude throughout the shoot
Requirements
-
No prior experience required, but on-set familiarity is a plus
-
Ability to follow instructions and adapt quickly to changing needs
-
Strong communication and teamwork skills
-
Must be punctual, dependable, and energetic
-
Available for filming in Miami, FL from August 8–10
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
Meals provided on set
-
Valuable on-set experience and networking opportunity
Job Description
A visually bold and emotionally intense psychological horror short film is seeking a skilled Grip to support the camera and lighting departments on set. Titled LOST IN NIGHTMARES, the project tells a chilling story of grief and obsession as reality unravels. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the visual impact of a high-concept indie film while gaining IMDb credit.
Job Responsibilities
-
Set up, adjust, and strike lighting and rigging equipment
-
Assist camera team with movement, stability, and support gear
-
Ensure safe handling of equipment throughout the shoot
-
Collaborate with the Director of Photography and Gaffer
-
Respond quickly to on-set technical and physical needs
Requirements
-
Previous experience as a Grip or strong familiarity with grip duties
-
Understanding of lighting rigs, flags, dollies, and grip tools
-
Ability to lift and move equipment safely and efficiently
-
Team player with a proactive attitude on set
-
Availability for filming in Miami, FL from August 8–10
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
Meals provided on set
-
Portfolio-building opportunity on a high-visual-impact film
Job Description
A gripping new psychological horror short film is now casting for a detail-oriented Script Supervisor. The project, LOST IN NIGHTMARES, explores the descent into obsession and fractured reality following a personal tragedy. The ideal candidate will ensure continuity, accuracy, and clear documentation across all scenes while supporting the director in tracking the story’s progression throughout production.
Job Responsibilities
-
Maintain detailed continuity notes on props, wardrobe, blocking, and timing
-
Track script changes and ensure consistency across takes
-
Record shot timings and take notes for the editor
-
Collaborate closely with the director, camera department, and editor
-
Create and maintain a daily script report for production
Requirements
-
Previous experience as a Script Supervisor or familiarity with the role
-
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
-
Ability to work long hours on set and adapt quickly to changes
-
Effective communication and a collaborative attitude
-
Available for filming in Miami, FL from August 8–10
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
On-set meals provided
-
Access to footage for reel or portfolio building
Job Description
An upcoming psychological horror short film is seeking a driven and organized 1st Assistant Director (1st AD) and/or Unit Production Manager (UPM) to join the crew. The film, LOST IN NIGHTMARES, tells a dark and gripping story of grief, obsession, and fractured reality. This is an opportunity for a highly motivated individual to manage on-set logistics and support the director in executing a visually intense and emotionally powerful production.
Job Responsibilities
-
Break down the script and create a detailed shooting schedule
-
Coordinate daily shoot logistics, call sheets, and time management
-
Act as the primary liaison between the director and crew on set
-
Manage crew coordination and keep the production on track
-
Support pre-production planning and ensure smooth execution during filming
Requirements
-
Prior experience as a 1st AD, UPM, or similar role in film production
-
Excellent time management, communication, and leadership skills
-
Ability to work under pressure and problem-solve on the fly
-
Knowledge of Miami, FL locations is a plus
-
Must be available for filming August 8–10 in Miami
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
Meals provided on set
-
Access to footage for professional reel and portfolio
Job Description
A visionary short film titled LOST IN NIGHTMARES is searching for a talented and resourceful Production Designer / Art Director / Props Coordinator. This psychological horror project explores obsession and grief through a surreal lens. We’re looking for a creative collaborator who can help craft the film’s visual world—from eerie set pieces to emotionally charged spaces—supporting the director’s unique vision.
Job Responsibilities
-
Design and oversee the overall visual look of the film
-
Collaborate with the director and cinematographer to achieve a consistent tone and mood
-
Source, build, and manage props, set dressing, and design elements
-
Coordinate with wardrobe and makeup departments for cohesive styling
-
Work within budget constraints and creatively solve production design challenges
Requirements
-
Prior experience as a Production Designer or Art Director in film or theater
-
Strong eye for detail and understanding of horror/surreal aesthetics
-
Ability to work efficiently within a small, focused crew
-
Portfolio or images of past work (required)
-
Availability for on-location shoot in Miami, FL (August 8–10)
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
Meals provided on set
-
Portfolio footage for future opportunities
Job Description
A bold psychological horror short film is casting a creative and detail-driven Costume Designer / Wardrobe Stylist to develop the visual identity of its characters. LOST IN NIGHTMARES tells a chilling story of a man unraveling in grief and obsession. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the eerie tone and surreal aesthetic of a character-driven narrative.
Job Responsibilities
-
Design and coordinate costumes in line with the film’s emotional and psychological themes
-
Collaborate with the director and production designer to build cohesive character looks
-
Source, create, and alter wardrobe pieces as needed
-
Maintain costume continuity throughout the shoot
-
Oversee fittings and ensure wardrobe readiness each shooting day
Requirements
-
Experience as a costume designer or wardrobe stylist on film or theater projects
-
Strong creative eye and understanding of color, symbolism, and period styles
-
Ability to work within a limited budget and think resourcefully
-
Portfolio or previous work samples required
-
Available to work in Miami, FL from August 8–10
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
Meals provided on set
-
Footage for portfolio or reel enhancement
Job Description
A surreal psychological horror short film is now casting a skilled Makeup Artist with strong SFX experience to bring emotional and visual depth to its characters. Titled LOST IN NIGHTMARES, the story explores the unraveling psyche of a man haunted by grief and hallucination. If you’re passionate about creating character-defining looks and subtle-to-intense horror effects, this role is your canvas.
Job Responsibilities
-
Design and apply character-appropriate makeup looks for a range of emotional and physical states
-
Create subtle and dramatic SFX makeup to support the horror aesthetic
-
Collaborate with the director, costume designer, and production team on cohesive visuals
-
Maintain continuity and touch-ups throughout shooting days
-
Ensure cleanliness and organization of all tools and materials on set
Requirements
-
Experience in both standard and SFX makeup for film or theater
-
Portfolio showcasing past work, especially horror/SFX looks
-
Ability to work efficiently under time constraints
-
Excellent attention to detail and creative problem-solving
-
Availability to work on-location in Miami, FL from August 8–10
Compensation
-
IMDb credit
-
Meals provided on set
-
Portfolio material for future gigs