Steve Nelson

Background

About Steve Nelson

I've devoted most of my work life to following my passion for helping people tell their stories. I'm energized by opportunities to prove that creative and effective marketing communications can happen regardless of the size of one's budget, and I've backed up that assertion time and time again. Resources make a difference, but using resources wisely makes all the difference. My work at Volunteers of America can be broken down into three key areas: ADVANCING THE MISSION THROUGH COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES • I am privileged to lead and implement communications strategies supporting the over-all strategic planning process at VOA. • I am the author charged with telling the story of the underserved. I am the creator of compelling emotional narratives coupled with data that show true impact. • It’s a pleasure to use my own skills and partner with others to create beautiful visuals and arresting video to capture attention and motivate action. CREATING ENGAGEMENT RESULTS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA • I lead the generation of the organization’s social media strategy by partnering with my small communications team, program staff and volunteers. • We use thirteen social media channels to engage specific audiences within each service area. • The overall Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter channels generated impressions in FY2019 and actively engaged people. LEVERAGING CROSS-FUNCTIONAL TEAMS • I am no stranger to working with limited resources. At VOA, I work with dedicated and talented colleagues who make the most with what we have. I also get to coach passionate program staff who need to connect with their stakeholders but often don’t have professional communication skills. • From the senior leaders to front-line staff we use our creative energy, innovative approaches and commitment to teamwork in getting the job done. Specialties: Strategic communications and marketing planning; strategic planning; development, implementation and evaluation of metrics, budgeting, developing consistent messaging across all traditional and social media channels; creating and managing crisis communication plans; strategic partner to the leadership team in identifying and managing communications on critical emerging policies or client issues; first point of contact if a rapid-response need should arise ensuring that clear, proactive and positive messaging is delivered; identifying, reporting, writing and editing copy and stories for publication.