Narrative and Communications Coordinator

About Appalachia Funders Network (AFN)

The Appalachia Funders Network (AFN) is a collaboration of philanthropic organizations working to foster a just and equitable transition in Central Appalachia. Comprising a diverse group of public, private, and family foundations, as well as government agencies, financial institutions, and community development organizations, AFN supports learning, collaboration, and aligned investment in the region. Under the fiscal sponsorship of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky (FAKY), AFN’s operations and activities aim to enhance the civic and philanthropic infrastructure that is vital for the growth and prosperity of Appalachian communities. With a mission focused on narrative change and field-building, AFN is committed to strengthening the local news ecosystem through initiatives such as Press Forward Central Appalachia and the Rural News Fund, ensuring that communities have access to trustworthy information and the opportunity to influence their own narratives.

About this Role

The Appalachia Funders Network (AFN) seeks a Narrative and Communications Coordinator to play a pivotal role in shaping narratives and communications across the network. This role requires an individual who is both strategic and execution-oriented, capable of managing communication systems while understanding the impact of narrative in shaping investments, policy, and place-based change. The Coordinator will devote approximately half of their efforts towards AFN’s expanding initiatives in rural news and narrative infrastructure. This includes working on projects like the Rural News Fund and Press Forward Central Appalachia to bolster the local news landscape. The other half of the role will focus on developing and maintaining AFN’s core communication strategies to ensure clear and coordinated communications that reflect the broader mission of narrative change within Appalachia. As part of a collaborative and remote team, this position offers the opportunity to significantly influence how stories, data, and relationships are conveyed within the network and beyond. The Coordinator will report to the Programs and Learning Manager and will work closely with AFN team members and partners.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate communications and storytelling efforts related to AFN’s rural news and narrative initiatives, including RNF and PFCA
• Support the development and amplification of stories that highlight the role of local news, civic infrastructure, and narrative power in Appalachian communities
• Work with partners to translate complex initiatives into accessible, compelling narratives
• Assist in coordinating communications across participatory grantmaking and field-building efforts tied to RNF
• Support learning journeys, convenings, and partner communications related to rural news and narrative change
• Help document and elevate lessons learned and emerging practices
• Lead organizing of the governing bodies of the Rural News Fund
• Lead execution and continuous improvement of AFN’s communications strategy
• Work with AFN’s Executive Director and other leaders to help publish content
• Manage and produce AFN’s newsletter, email communications, and announcements
• Oversee and grow AFN’s social media presence
• Maintain and update website content
• Draft and edit a range of materials including blog posts, reports, and talking points
• Support communications for major initiatives
• Collaborate with staff to translate programmatic work into clear, accessible content
• Track basic communications metrics and adapt strategies based on performance

Requirements

• 3–6 years of relevant experience in communications or a related field
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, remote team environment
• Ability to translate complex ideas into clear communications
• Commitment to equity, belonging, and non-extractive storytelling
• Familiarity with or experience in Appalachia (preferred)
• Experience with philanthropy, community development, or media ecosystems (preferred)
• Understanding of narrative change and place-based strategies (preferred)

Benefits

• Employer-paid health, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits with employer contributions
• Technology stipend to support remote work
• Professional development opportunities
• Travel opportunities

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