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Request for Proposals-Communications and Marketing Consultant

Communications and Marketing Consultant

Vermont Truth and Reconciliation Commission (VTRC)

 

Projected Contract Timeline: January, 2025 - May, 2027

Proposal Deadline:  December 27, 2024

Purpose

The Vermont Truth and Reconciliation Commission (VTRC) seeks a Communications and Marketing Consultant to support its mission of fostering healing, understanding, and justice for communities impacted by historical and ongoing harm in Vermont. This consultant will develop and implement effective messaging strategies and outreach to diverse organizations, communities, and individuals. They will also assist in creating positive media experiences, ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations involved in this work, and enhancing our social media, email outreach, and website presence.

About the VTRC

The VTRC is dedicated to uncovering historical truths, fostering healing, and promoting reconciliation in Vermont. We engage a broad range of communities and organizations in this effort, including groups outlined on our website. Our work requires thoughtful communication strategies that respect the experiences of those involved while amplifying the stories and initiatives at the core of our mission.

Scope of Work

The Communications and Marketing Consultant will collaborate with the VTRC staff, including the Executive Assistant, to perform the following:

1. Strategic Communications Plan

  • Develop a comprehensive communications plan tailored to VTRC’s goals and objectives.
  • Incorporate strategies to address diverse audiences, including Indigenous communities, historically marginalized groups, and broader Vermont populations.
  • Include best practices for protecting the safety and dignity of vulnerable populations while promoting positive narratives and educational initiatives.

2. Messaging Development

  • Craft consistent, inclusive, and impactful messaging for:
    • Public outreach efforts.
    • Media releases and press materials.
    • Social media campaigns.
    • Website content and updates.
  • Ensure that messaging aligns with VTRC’s mission and values.

3. Social Media and Digital Outreach

  • Manage and grow VTRC’s social media presence with targeted strategies to engage key stakeholders.
  • Create and schedule content that drives awareness, engagement, and participation.
  • Develop email outreach campaigns, including newsletters, event announcements, and stakeholder updates.

4. Website Presence

  • Assist with improving website content to ensure it is clear, engaging, and accessible to all users.
  • Update and maintain information about events, initiatives, and resources.

5. Media Relations

  • Develop strategies to engage local, state, and national media outlets positively.
  • Prepare press kits and talking points for media interactions.
  • Advise on crisis communication strategies to safeguard the integrity and safety of individuals involved.

6. Collaboration with VTRC Staff

  • Train the Executive Assistant and other staff on best practices for executing communication strategies.
  • Provide ongoing consultation and support to enhance internal and external communications.

Deliverables

  1. Comprehensive communications plan with timelines and metrics.
  2. Messaging framework and guidelines.
  3. Content calendars for social media and email outreach.
  4. Press kits, media outreach plans, and response templates.
  5. Website improvement plan and updated content.
  6. Training materials and sessions for VTRC staff.

Qualifications

Required

  • Proven experience in communications, marketing, or public relations.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations and culturally sensitive projects.
  • Strong understanding of social media platforms, website management, and email marketing tools.
  • Experience in developing messaging frameworks for nonprofits or advocacy groups.

Preferred

  • Familiarity with Vermont communities and history, particularly issues related to reconciliation and social justice.
  • Experience in working with Indigenous communities or historically marginalized groups.

Proposal Requirements

Interested consultants must include the following:

Cover Letter

    • Briefly introduce yourself or your firm and express interest in the project.

Experience and Qualifications

    • Summarize relevant experience and qualifications, including examples of similar projects.

Approach to Scope of Work

    • Provide a detailed description of how you would address the tasks outlined in the Scope of Work.

Timeline

    • Provide a proposed timeline for completing deliverables.

Budget

    • Include a detailed budget, outlining costs for each aspect of the work.  We have budgeted between $40,000 and $50,000.

       References

    • Provide contact information for at least two references who can speak to your ability to deliver similar work.

Submission Instructions:  Proposals must be submitted via email to vtrc@vermont.gov

Terms and Conditions

  • The VTRC reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
  • The VTRC may request additional information or clarification from applicants during the evaluation process.
  • All materials submitted in response to this RFP become the property of the VTRC.

We look forward to receiving your proposal and working together to ensure compassionate and culturally sensitive care for the communities we serve.