Grant Program Assistant

ABOUT US

Variety the Children’s Charity is on a mission to help every child with complex healthcare needs fulfill their unique potential. Through providing essential support and resources, including medical and mobility equipment, specialized therapists, expert tutors and counsellors, mental health counselling, vital assessments and supporting early childhood intervention, we empower extraordinary children to overcome barriers and thrive. Our work makes a profound difference in the lives of families across British Columbia.

Last year, over 15,000 children and youth in 245 communities across the province received support from Variety that transformed their daily realities and changed the trajectory of their lives for the better. We firmly believe in the power of diversity, respecting and valuing every child for who they are. We believe that every child has the right to live in an inclusive world and we provide life-changing assistance to children who face barriers so they can thrive and belong in their community.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Variety is seeking an exceptional Grant Program Assistant to provide administrative support for the individual granting area of Variety’s grant program. As the Grant Program Assistant, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission to provide children with complex health care needs the critical support they need to thrive and belong.

The ideal candidate is driven, compassionate, energetic, and forward-thinking with strong attention to detail.

ROLE AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Confirm receipt of applications with families via email or phone in a timely and professional manner.
• Review all incoming individual grant applications for completeness and eligibility according to granting policies and guidelines.
• Liaise with referral agents, families, and service providers as needed to support application processing and decision-making.
• Work closely with Grant Program Coordinators to ensure application files are complete and ready for review and approval.
• Follow up with families to obtain missing or incomplete documentation and close applications if required information is not provided within a reasonable timeframe.
• Accurately enter application data into granting database, maintain tracking spreadsheets in Excel, and manage correspondence through Outlook.
• Provide general administrative support to the department, including reception relief as needed.
• Respond to incoming inquiries (phone, mail, email) related to granting, determine preliminary eligibility, and distribute grant applications to qualifying families.
• Answer telephone calls directed to the granting department and respond or redirect as appropriate.
• Collaborate with the Manager of Programs and Outreach to identify families with compelling stories that may be featured in Variety campaigns.
• Communicate with families to discuss potential participation, while respecting their privacy and confidentiality.
• Attend Variety family events and school grant recipient celebrations, assist with logistics and on-site activities, including the Boat for Hope event.
• Assist team with follow up on any corrections between the grant department and vendors.
• Assist with grant approvals when requested during peak times and vacation coverage.
• Assist the granting team with documentation of policies and procedures.
• Other duties as required.

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of four years experience with data entry or a combination of applicable education and experience
• Minimum of three years using accounting and database software applications.
• Experience in non-profit environment is an asset.
• Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft 365 products.
• Experience in Microsoft Dynamics Great Plains or Sage Intacct an asset.
• Accurate and well organized with a high level of attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to process a high volume of applications with accuracy.
• Friendly disposition and ability to work well in a fast-paced environment.
• Shows good judgment and tact in all areas of work and in all interactions with internal and external contacts.

JOIN US

At Variety, we value diversity in all its forms and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. We believe that a team enriched by different cultures and perspectives makes us stronger. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where everyone’s voice is heard. We actively strive to provide opportunities for all individuals and will continue to embed diversity, belonging, and equality in everything we do.

If you are ready to join a stellar team making a profound impact and you feel inspired to ignite change where it matters most – in the lives of children – we invite you to join us at Variety and apply for the Grant Program Assistant role.

This position is based in our Burnaby, BC office with a hybrid and flexible workplace experience. Variety offers a competitive compensation and benefits package and a rewarding employment experience where your contributions make a real difference. Together, we can create a world where every child’s unique potential knows no bounds.