Event Planner & Sponsorship Coordinator
Location: Ravenswood Neighborhood, Chicago, IL
Organization: Local Community Recreation Center
Compensation
$600 per week base pay
20% commission on event ticket sales
20% commission on sponsorships secured
A great way to reach six figures and beyond for high performers
About the Role
We are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated Event Planner & Sponsorship Coordinator to lead the planning, execution, and growth of community events. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires daily coordination, independent problem-solving, and full ownership of logistics, scheduling, and partnerships.
You will be the central point person for eventsโresponsible for planning, staffing, sponsorships, presentation, and ensuring all spaces are used efficiently and never overbooked.
Events You Will Lead
Farmers Markets and recurring community events
Neighborhood events (600โ800 attendees, 3โ6 per year)
Large-scale signature events (up to 10,000 attendees, 2 per year)
Monthly small events (100โ200 attendees)
Tasks & Responsibilities
This role requires someone who can truly run the show.
Head up and run the Farmers Market and all regular community events
Serve as the boots-on-the-ground event coordinator from planning through cleanup
Meet daily, MondayโFriday, with leadership for planning, updates, and feedback
Work independently while managing multiple active projects
Act as the primary schedule keeper for events and classes
Ensure spaces are never double-booked or overbooked
Develop event themes, dรฉcor, entertainment, and overall presentation
Reach out to businesses, partners, and organizations to secure sponsorships
Manage assigned budgets and resources responsibly
Coordinate staff, volunteers, vendors, performers, and contractors
Experience Required
2+ years of experience in event planning, event coordination, or event production
Proven experience securing sponsorships, partnerships, or fundraising support
Experience managing multiple events or projects simultaneously
Familiarity with event budgets, timelines, vendors, and logistics
Experience coordinating staff, volunteers, or contractors
Comfortable managing calendars and preventing scheduling conflicts or overbooking
Preferred (Not Required):
Experience with community events, festivals, farmers markets, or nonprofit programming
Background in sales, sponsorship outreach, or corporate partnerships
Experience working with parks, recreation centers, or community organizations
Required Qualities
Extremely detail-oriented with strong follow-through
Highly organized and confident managing calendars, timelines, and logistics
Resourceful and creative when solving problems or designing events
Strong communicator and relationship builder
Comfortable taking ownership without constant supervision
Willing and able to work evenings and weekends as required by events
Why This Role Is a Big Opportunity
Base pay plus uncapped commissions
Direct control over income growth by executing more events and securing sponsorships
Creative freedom with leadership support, budgets, and staffing help
High-impact role serving the Ravenswood community
A clear path to six figures and beyond for the right person
How to Apply
Please reply to this ad send a short introduction, relevant experience, and any examples of event planning or sponsorship work to us! Thanks!
If youโre ready to lead incredible family events, build deep local partnerships, and turn this role into a six-figure success storyโwe want to hear from you!
Send your resume and a short message explaining why this job excites you.
Company Description
In-the-Parks.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Chicagoโs parks and enriching community life through creative programming, events, and charitable initiatives.
in-the-parks-org
We offer free childrenโs classes, themed park events, and wellness programming to inspire active, imaginative, and healthy living.
in-the-parks-org
We also run a fundraising arm, partnering with local causes to amplify impact and provide much-needed support to neighborhood charities.
in-the-parks-org
Our core focus:
Enhance public parks with engaging, accessible programs
Strengthen community through shared experiences
Mobilize sponsorships and partnerships to drive local impact