For Immediate Release June 18, 2025
Write253’s Board of Directors announced today that long-time Executive Director, Michael Haeflinger, will be stepping down at the end of June.
Since joining the organization in 2017, Haeflinger has been instrumental in developing and expanding the programming offerings. He brought Louder Than a Bomb to Tacoma, a five-year-running poetry event that fostered creativity and self-expression among youth. In 2019, he established Line Break Press, a letterpress printing program for teens that has since become a cornerstone of the organization.
Most recently, Haeflinger oversaw the relocation of Write253 to its new home in the Community Hub at the Tacoma Public Library Main Branch. Under his leadership, Write253 has become the primary organizer of Tacoma Wayzgoose, a vibrant community event that celebrates letterpress, printmaking, and book arts. This event was held this past May at the Main Library and featured over 40 vendors and artists, nearly 4,000 attendees, and countless opportunities for young people to engage with printmaking and book arts through hands-on activities and demonstrations.
Haeflinger’s impact on the lives of thousands of Tacoma youth is immeasurable. The Board of Directors expresses its gratitude for his invaluable contributions to the organization and the community. As he embarks on new opportunities, the Board wishes him all the best.
Write253 Executive Director Position
Organization: Write253
Location: Tacoma, WA
Job Type: Part-Time (25 hours per week)
Reports To: Board of Directors
Salary range: $48,000-$52,000 annually
Application Deadline: July 15, 2025
About Write253
Write253 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering young voices through writing, literacy, and creative expression. We believe every young person has a story to tell—and that writing is a powerful tool for self-discovery, confidence, and community connection.
Write253’s mission is to provide meaningful and transformative writing, publishing, and artistic opportunities that cross boundaries and create community for teens and young adults in greater Tacoma.
Position Summary
The Executive Director of Write253 is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and advancement of the organization. This role requires a dynamic, mission-driven individual who can drive strategic growth, lead impactful youth programming, manage day-to-day operations, and maintain key functions such as grant writing and digital presence. The ED is the public face of the organization and is accountable to the Board of Directors.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership
● Provide strategic vision and direction to fulfill Write253’s mission and expand its impact.
● Foster a culture of creativity, inclusion, and youth empowerment.
● Serve as the liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization, ensuring effective communication and governance support.
Program Oversight
● Support and oversee the development and delivery of writing and literacy programs.
● Support and oversee the development and delivery of printmaking programs and events including Tacoma Wayzgoose.
● Ensure programs meet community needs, are well-evaluated, and reflect the organization’s goals.
● Cultivate relationships with educators, schools, and local organizations to enhance collaboration.
Fundraising & Development
● Research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals to foundations, corporations, and government entities.
● Track existing grant obligations, ensuring compliance, reporting, and renewal efforts are timely and accurate.
● Lead all fundraising efforts, including donor cultivation, sponsorships, events, and individual giving campaigns.
Communications & Website Management
● Maintain and update the Write253 website, ensuring it reflects current programs, events, and opportunities.
● Oversee digital communications, including newsletters, social media, and public outreach.
● Serve as a spokesperson and advocate for Write253’s mission, elevating visibility across the community and media.
Finance & Administration
● Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board Treasurer.
● Ensure the organization’s financial health through effective oversight, reporting, and internal controls.
● Supervise staff, volunteers, and contractors; create a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Qualifications
● Passion for youth development, literacy, and community engagement.
● Proven leadership in a nonprofit or mission-driven setting.
● Demonstrated experience in grant writing, fundraising, and donor relations.
● Basic website management skills (e.g., WordPress, Squarespace, or similar platforms).
● Strong project management and organizational skills, with attention to detail.
● Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public speaking abilities.
● Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, education, English/writing, or related field (Master’s preferred).
Benefits
Benefits to be negotiated.
Preferred Skills & Attributes
● Familiarity with Tacoma’s cultural, educational, and nonprofit landscape.
● Lived experience or strong connection with the communities Write253 serves.
● Experience planning and organizing community events.
● Experience advancing racial equity and inclusion in organizational practices.
● Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a small team environment.
● Comfort with technology tools such as Google Workspace, donor CRMs, and basic design/editing tools.
How to Apply
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to info@write253.org by July 15 at 11:59pm. Please use this same email for any questions or inquiries regarding the position. Your cover letter should describe your connection to Write253’s mission and how your experience aligns with this role.
