Trailnet Optimistic About Citywide Street Study

City of St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones told reporters in an interview session on Thursday, September 22, 2022 that the City intends to explore more comprehensive planning and budgeting in pursuit of Safe Streets for All in St. Louis.

Trailnet is excited about this announcement and encouraged that the Jones administration is looking to address the epidemic of traffic violence in our region. Read more in the press release below:

Safe Streets For All Press Release

In response to the continued epidemic of traffic violence in our region, Trailnet is partnering with the Community Mobility Committee (CMC) to lead a series of discussions on street safety. The goal of these discussions will be to provide recommendations to the administration and the community on ways to make our city streets safer for all.

Full press release below:

Join our team: Membership Coordinator

Trailnet is seeking a qualified candidate to join our team as the Membership Coordinator. The Membership Coordinator will lead by example promoting membership, providing excellent customer service, and stewarding members into longtime donors. 

The ideal candidate will have a philanthropic mindset, enthusiastically seeking opportunities to connect people to our mission. They should find joy in meeting and working with people from diverse backgrounds with a shared vision of a safer region for walking, biking and using public transit. 

Reporting Relationship:

The Membership Coordinator reports to the Development Director and works in collaboration with fundraising, marketing, planning, finance, rides, and program staff. 

About the Organization:

Trailnet is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization with a 33-year history of making walking and biking a way of life in the St. Louis region. We believe everyone should have access to safe, comfortable walking and biking connections where we live, work, and play in our communities. Trailnet works within the St. Louis region and across the state to respond to the demand for improved walking and biking networks that attract and retain talent, strengthen our economy, and connect people to the places they love. We are leading the way by developing policy and on-the-ground solutions to help people of all ages and abilities reach community and cultural destinations by walking, biking, or taking transit.

Our team includes community planners, advocates, educators, bicyclists, transit users, and staunch supporters of local business. We advocate for spaces that are designed to encourage people to walk, bike, and take public transit. We believe that creating communities begins with understanding and appreciating the unique differences of all who live and work there. We embrace diversity and want to move our region forward with safe, equitable ways to get around that improve everyone’s quality of life.

Overview of the Position

Membership and Solicitation Programs:

• Serves as the first point of contact for members and prospective members, and makes excellent customer service a priority
• Executes routine and special initiative programs to acquire, retain and upgrade members to achieve financial and administrative goals 
• Works closely with the Director of Development to coordinate at least two annual membership drives and two online appeals including overseeing large scale-mail piece design, coordinating with a mail house, list exchanges, etc.
• Implements membership renewal process with timely donor reminder letters and outreach to lapsed donors 
• Produces direct mail, personalized correspondence and online giving documents
• Produces accurate and complete membership rosters in adaptive and intuitive formats
• Monitors, analyzes and proactively reports on membership results using trends in member type, average giving, member total, total giving, and suggests corrective strategies
• Maintains supplies and stationery for all membership correspondence and fulfillment
• Supports annual member t-shirt ordering

Gift Processing and Tracking:

• Provides excellent donor stewardship by quickly and accurately receiving, tracking, and acknowledging all gifts
• Adheres to and updates gift processing policies and procedures
• Creates and maintains transparent and easy-to-navigate paper and electronic files
• Works with the Development Director to create insightful and accurate reports to the CEO, Development Committee and Board

Donor Database and List Management:

• Maintains the donor database to ensure its highest possible function
• Routinely updates donor records with information from a variety of sources
• Provides timely, high-quality data output for a variety of requests and purposes
• Updates data entry and management procedures
• Works with Rides Director and ride registration program to ensure ride registration supports membership recruitment and provides an excellent experience for members
• Assemble targeted mail and email lists and share with partners as needed

Development and Fund-Raising Activities:

• Supports Development Director for annual Gala and donor recognition events
• Serves as a resource for volunteer recruiting and registration; collects and tracks volunteer hours in the donor database
• Provides energetic, donor-focused support at fundraising and member events
• Determines Trailnet’s involvement at community and corporate wellness fairs, and coordinates staffing for those events, working the events as needed
• Strategically promotes Trailnet’s brand and membership in all aspects of work
• Co-chairs annual volunteer and member recognition events with Rides Director

Finance and Administration:

• Serve as back-up to Office Manager for phones and bank deposits
• Works closely with the Finance Manager to ensure an accurate interface between Development and Finance

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required, relevant field (Marketing, Communications, Business, Administrative Studies, Human Resources, Fundraising/Philanthropy, or other Social Sciences) preferred
• One year of experience working in an office setting, preferably in a non-profit organization in fundraising or communications
• Experience and knowledge of donor database systems preferred (Trailnet uses DonorPerfect and will provide training specific to its use)
• Computer literate with the ability to effectively use technology (Google workplace, Microsoft Office, printer-copier, postage meter)
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Self-motivated—able to work alone, and as a member of a team
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a strong sense of prioritization
• Strong customer service orientation with the desire to interact with a diverse community of staff, partners, participants, and volunteers
• Able to work weekends and some evenings throughout the year supporting Trailnet events and outreach: 10-12 outdoor events in the bistate region, including distance bike rides and community rides throughout Spring, Summer, and Fall.

Physical Responsibilities:

• Transport up to 25 lbs. of tabling or outreach materials to events
• Work at a computer
• Staff tables at outreach events
• Make phone calls

Work Environment

As of January 2022, the majority of our staff is in a remote-work environment, with limited time in the office. All employees are required to provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19.

Compensation

Full-time, Exempt

Salary range is $33,000- $40,000.

Eligible for full-time benefits including Medical and Dental Insurance

Competitive benefits package, salary commensurate with experience, flexible hours, casual work environment, office located in downtown St. Louis, a short walk from MetroLink. A company car is available for some business-related local and regional travel. Free membership to the Downtown Bike Station. 

Commitment to Equity and Equal Opportunity

Trailnet is committed to supporting diversity and equal opportunity in its services, administration, and employment, as well as research and activities. We strive to foster a working environment that values contributions from team members including those based on race, color, creed, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation, sexual identity, mental disabilities, physical disabilities, or veteran status. We work with a wide range of external partners and stakeholders, and we seek candidates that are committed to their own cultural competency. Women, people of color, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ community are encouraged to apply.

Application Information

Applicants should send a cover letter and resume to hr@trailnet.org. Applicants are encouraged to apply by February 27, 2022.  The position will remain open until filled.

Corinne Austin: Our new Development Director

Trailnet is so excited to welcome Corinne back to the Trailnet team as our new Development Director! Corinne looks forward to getting to know Trailnet members, volunteers, supporters, sponsors, and all of the incredible people who make up the Trailnet community.

She hopes to connect people who share our values and vision with opportunities to make our region safer for biking, walking and public transit. She brings 6 years of fundraising and relationship-building experience to the team, previously serving at the Humane Society of Missouri, Trailnet, and Pedal the Cause. Many members may recognize her from her time as Trailnet’s Membership Manager a few years ago.

Q & A with Corinne…

1) Talk about all your experience in non-profit development and career achievements you want to share…

I started my career at the Humane Society of Missouri, where I worked in the Development Department, where I experienced the joy of giving and the impact of philanthropy. I decided to continue to pursue a career in nonprofit fund development. In 2018, I had the wonderful opportunity to join the Trailnet staff as Membership Manager, where I got to meet Trailnet members and connect them with opportunities to support advocacy, education and community planning programs. For the last few years, I served as the Development Manager at Pedal the Cause where I recruited, trained and partnered with team captains and participants to raise critical funds for cancer research through an annual community cycling challenge. As a cancer survivor, I am proud to still be a part of the #PedalFamily.

I’m passionate about giving back to the nonprofit sector and the profession of fundraising. Last year, I was honored as the Association of Fundraising Professionals St. Louis Chapter’s 2021 National Philanthropy Day Outstanding Emerging Fundraiser. A few weeks ago, I earned a credential as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). I’ve had the opportunity to speak about engaging millennials in philanthropy at several professional conferences, including the 2018 AFP St. Louis Conference and 2019 AFP ICON International Conference.

2) What drew you to Trailnet?

I went to college in Boston, where I relied entirely on biking, walking, and public transit to get around. I loved getting to spend more time outside, staying active, and exploring the city. I felt like I got to know the city so much more intimately than I could have from behind a car window.  One day while I was still in college, I stopped by the Trailnet office with my dad when he picked up his packet for Ride the Rivers, and I was drawn to the energy of the staff. I remember saying to my dad “It would be so cool to work there someday!” I got to fulfill that dream in 2018 as the Membership Manager, and now I get to continue it in a new way as Director of Development. 

I share Trailnet’s vision of a more connected, equitable, healthy and sustainable community. That is the kind of place I want to work, live and play. I’m so honored to join our members, sponsors, donors, volunteers, board and staff in making that dream a reality, one day at a time. 

3) What is your educational background?

Well, since I’m from St. Louis I guess I should tell you where I went to high school — Cor Jesu Academy. I went on to graduate with a BS in political science from Northeastern University in 2015. I continue to seek continuing education in my field of nonprofit management and fundraising. 

4) What do you do for fun?

My husband and I have a menagerie of senior pets — our dog Rex, three cats (Kevin, Matilda and Elsa), and a tank of fish. I love staying active by biking, hiking, rowing, and lifting heavy stuff. 

5) Anything else you want to share with our audience!

I can’t wait to get to know more of the Trailnet community, reconnect with our members, and spend more time on my bike! 

Trailnet’s 33rd Birthday!

Today, November 29 Trailnet turns 33! That means 33 years of dedicated work in the community.

From the early days rehabbing the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and developing Grant’s Trail, to our work advocating for better biking, walking and public transit safety across the St. Louis region: We appreciate all our friends, members and partners who have supported our mission along the way!

33 years of your support helps us:

• Bring awareness and advocacy for safer streets for all. We’re preparing for another year of committed advocacy, fighting distracted driving and connecting our St. Louis community.
• Create a network of low-stress connections for people to get around the region by foot or or by bike. More than 6 miles of protected bike lanes are on track for construction in the coming years. Our work to champion this vital progress is thanks to support from people like you!
• Advocate for policy changes to limit distracted driving in Missouri and improve safety for people walking and biking.
• Host bike rodeos where kids and adults practice safe bike skills. We also get adults moving by hosting education sessions to build confidence commuting by bike and riding in all conditions.

Celebrate and support Trailnet

To celebrate Trailnet’s 33 years, our $55 friend-level membership will be $33 all day today! Support us by becoming a member to improve biking, walking and public transit in the St. Louis region.
Become a friend-level member or gift a membership to a friend by:
1) Clicking here or the button below
2) Selecting the option “Join/Renew with a One-Time Gift”
3) Typing in $33 on the “Other” line

We want to hear from you!

Share with us any of your favorite Trailnet photos, stories and memories by emailing communications@trailnet.org or connecting with us on our social media!

Thank you for so much for 33 years!

Our Trailnet Champion: Our 2021 Summer Intern! Meet Hannah!

Trailnet is honored to offer enriching internships every year that allow people to gain experience building a better, more connected St. Louis. Trailnet interns come from dynamic backgrounds and are immediately plugged in to our exciting work. This month, we’re highlighting Hannah Hirsch, one of our talented 2021 summer interns.

Read on to learn about how Hannah is dedicated to working towards a more sustainable planet with active transportation options for all.

1) What you did this summer (outside of Trailnet)?

Outside of my work at Trailnet, I enjoyed my first summer in St. Louis where I was able to get to know the city without the stress of academics. I met a bunch of new, great people with whom I explored different local shops, neighborhoods, and events. To name a few examples, I spent a lot of time in Forest Park where I got to witness cool areas I had never seen before and enjoy nature in an urban environment. I love thrifting and I explored new shops where I enjoyed both browsing and the occasional purchase. I also attended live music shows in Tower Grove Park and frequented the farmers market.  

2) What you’re studying in school?  

I am pursuing a double major in Environmental Studies and Economics at WashU. I hope to use my knowledge in the future to play a role in developing climate solutions that challenge current norms and transition ourselves to a more circular economy.

3) What drew you to intern at Trailnet? 

My interest in the environment both personally and academically drew me to intern at Trailnet as I desired to dig deeper into the organization’s efforts to connect neighborhoods and make streets safer for biking and walking, which are important carbon-neutral alternatives to most popular forms of transportation. My initial interest grew into an understanding of street connectivity as a goal not only to better the climate, but as a must for equity and a more cohesive city.

4) What about your time at Trailnet was valuable to your career?

Having an opportunity to work hands-on with a grant writing project is a unique experience that I was provided at Trailnet, which I cannot say I would have been offered elsewhere. I felt valued as a team member during meetings and working one-on-one with staff despite my role as an intern, challenging me to think more critically, quickly, and creatively. Taking ownership of a project and its timeline from beginning to end will prove to be critical experience in any career I ultimately pursue.

5) What has been the most fun Trailnet project to work on or learn about?  

Apart from my grant writing project, I enjoyed accompanying Sam to tabling events and getting to know different St. Louis neighborhoods. In addition to immersing myself in local community events, it was interesting to take speed data at the same intersection over time and see for myself how infrastructure changes have the power to calm traffic and create safer streets.

6) What do you do like to do for fun?

In my free time I enjoy reading, listening to music, exploring and spending time with friends, and other relaxing activities. It has been harder to make time for these as the school year has started, but I’ve been doing my best to keep in the loop with local events. Recently I’ve seen live music at Blueberry Hill, visited the farmers’ market on the Delmar Loop, and explored the Hill, to name a few..

Thank you so much Hannah for you time and work at Trailnet! You are so wonderful, and we all wish you a wonderful school year!

Traffic Calming and Pop-up Park on MLK

On September 10, 4theVille hosted a pop-up park on MLK and North Sarah to celebrate the Ville’s heritage, highlight talented Black artists and history, and imagine the Ville’s potential.

Trailnet helped out with a traffic calming demonstration with brightly colored tires, traffic cones, and tape to create bump-outs on MLK & North Sarah and MLK & Whittier in the Ville. The temporary curb bump-outs and high-visibility crosswalks create a safer and more comfortable street for all users by making a safer and shorter distance for people walking along the street to cross.

Even though the lane configuration of the street remained the same, by bumping-out the curbs and reinforcing the intended traffic patterns, there was a noticeable decrease in speeding along the corridor during the demonstration. This temporary change helped Trailnet and 4theVille engage residents on what changes they would like to see at this and other locations in the future to make it easier for people to get around safely.

This pop-up is part of a larger effort by 4theVille and Trailnet to engage residents in conversations about how the built environment could make it easier for people in the neighborhoods to get around.

The pop-up event provides side benefits in highlighting local history and addressing stormwater runoff, through a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Justice – Collaborative Problem Solving program. Additional support was provided through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services “Missouri Livable Streets” Program, an effort to advance complete and livable streets in communities across the state and connect people to every day destinations through connected communities that prioritize people getting around in many different ways.

Trailnet is grateful to have been part of such an amazing effort by 4theVille, “It was really terrific to be a part of this collaborative effort to highlight the unique history of one of the countries most historic Black neighborhoods, and help engage residents in ways that history can be elevated and celebrated for future generations,” Taylor March, Trailnet’s Director of Policy said.

We look forward to how we can continue to help make the streets places for people, and help highlight all the amazing history of the Ville Neighborhood!

2021 Bike Education Classes!

Trailnet 2021 Bicycle Education Class Offerings!

Tuesday, December 7 (snow date Dec. 16th) 5:30-7:30PM,All About Winter Riding – Come learn with the experts all about winter riding. This class will cover winter clothing suggestions, bike maintenance, riding conditions and how to choose the proper gear and routes for those snowy days.

Thank you to everyone who came and participated in Trailnet’s 2021 Bicycle Education classes! It’s been so much fun to meet new people and teach new skills! Stay tuned for future bike education classes in 2022.

Bike education classes supported in part by the Great Rivers Greenway District!