The Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington (IFC) is seeking an entrepreneurial, relationship-oriented Unity Walk Director to lead and grow one of the Washington region’s most distinctive public events.

For more than two decades, the Unity Walk has invited people of every faith, culture, and background to experience the extraordinary religious diversity of our nation’s capital through open houses at houses of worship, meaningful dialogue, music, art, service, and community. It is one of the region’s most visible expressions of interfaith joy and friendship. As the Walk enters its next chapter, we are looking for someone with the creativity, energy, and vision to build on the Unity Walk’s strong foundation by expanding its reach, deepening community partnerships, strengthening sponsorship support, and increasing its impact across the region.

This is more than an event management role. It is an opportunity to shape an iconic DMV tradition while working with one of the oldest and most respected interfaith organizations in the metro area.

The ideal candidate is an excellent relationship builder who enjoys bringing people together, transforming creative ideas into memorable public experiences, building multi-faith partnerships, and marketing events. They are equally comfortable thinking strategically and rolling up their sleeves to make things happen.

This position reports to IFC’s Associate Director.

Contract Details

Compensation: $5,000

Term: Approximately 3 months (August–October)

Potential for Growth: Depending on organizational needs and the successful candidate’s interests and strengths, this contract may be extended to include leadership of additional IFC programs and events.

Location: Candidates must live in the Washington metropolitan area and be available to work from IFC’s office approximately 2–3 days per week, with flexibility for meetings and event activities.

Responsibilities

Working closely with the Associate Director, the Unity Walk Director will lead the planning, implementation, marketing, sponsorship development, and community engagement efforts for the 2026 Unity Walk.

Event Leadership

Serve as the primary liaison with all host congregations.
Lead the planning and implementation of all aspects of the Unity Walk.
Develop and oversee workshops, dialogues, service projects, performances, and other programming.
Recruit, coordinate, and support volunteers, performers, speakers, workshop leaders, and community partners.
Recruit and manage participants for the Unity Walk Resource Fair.
Coordinate permits and relationships with the Metropolitan Police Department and other agencies.
Track revenues and expenses and assist with event budget management.

Marketing & Communications

Develop and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy to increase participation, visibility, and community engagement.
Lead the Unity Walk’s digital communications, including website updates, social media, email newsletters, promotional materials, and participant communications.
Tell the story of the Unity Walk through compelling communications that inspire participation, sponsorship, and community ownership.
Build relationships with congregations, universities, schools, civic organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and local governments throughout the Washington metropolitan area.
Help expand the Unity Walk’s visibility and strengthen its reputation as one of the region’s premier interfaith public events.

Sponsorship & Partnership Development

Build upon the Unity Walk’s existing sponsorship and fundraising efforts to strengthen financial support and community partnerships.
Steward relationships with current sponsors while helping identify and cultivate new sponsorship and partnership opportunities.
Collaborate with IFC leadership on sponsorship outreach, proposals, communications, and sponsor recognition.
Help secure financial sponsorships and in-kind contributions that support the continued growth and success of the Unity Walk.
Contribute creative ideas for expanding the Walk’s long-term visibility, sustainability, and community support.

The Ideal Candidate

You are someone who:

Loves bringing ambitious community events to life.
Enjoys meeting new people and building authentic relationships.
Thinks like both a producer and an entrepreneur.
Has strong marketing instincts and enjoys increasing participation and visibility.
Is comfortable helping cultivate sponsors and community partnerships.
Balances creativity with exceptional organizational skills.
Thrives in collaborative, mission-driven environments.
Is passionate about building bridges across communities and cultures.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
At least three years of experience in nonprofit leadership, event management, community engagement, civic engagement, arts administration, religious or interfaith organizations, or related fields.
Demonstrated success managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
Excellent organizational and project management skills.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships across diverse communities.
Experience with Google Suite.
Experience with Canva and social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Experience using email marketing platforms such as Mailchimp (or willingness to learn).
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a small team.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience helping cultivate sponsors, community partnerships, or donor relationships for nonprofit organizations or public events.
Experience marketing events and increasing attendance.
Familiarity with the religious, cultural, and civic landscape of the Washington metropolitan region.
Experience with donor management or CRM systems.
Experience using registration platforms such as Givebutter (or willingness to learn).
Experience updating websites using a content management system (or willingness to learn).

To Apply

Please send your resume and a cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience to:

IFC Associate Director, Symi Rom-Rymer: [email protected]

About the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington

Founded in 1978, the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington is among the oldest interfaith organizations in the United States.

Our mission is to advance understanding and cooperation across diverse faith traditions and cultures in our nation’s capital for the betterment of all.

We organize our work around three interconnected pillars: Learning & Understanding, Encounter & Dialogue, and Collaboration & Cooperation. Through educational programs, leadership development, public events, and collaborative initiatives, IFC brings together people of diverse faiths and worldviews to strengthen relationships, deepen understanding, and build a more connected and compassionate region.