Development Director

YMCA
Salary
$55,000.00
$67,000.00
Resumes Accepted Until
Resume Contact
[email protected]
The Director of Development is responsible for the strategic management of all branch fundraising activities.
Job Description

The Director of Development is responsible for the strategic management of all YMCA fundraising activities. In partnership with the CEO, the Director of Development's responsibilities include the settings of annual and multi-year goals, the development and implementation of plans to achieve those goals, and the daily driving of the process that will direct staff and volunteer leaders to activities that contribute to fundraising success, lead and maximize the organization’s grants revenue and ensure ongoing funding sustainability for the future. The Director also works to develop and sustain relationships with new and current donors and to explore the possibility of new partnerships to support the YMCA’s mission-driven, grant-funded programming. The Director is an important liaison between Y staff and grant funders, helping oversee program implementation of grant deliverables. The Director is responsible for pre-grant research, grant writing, coordination of grant applications, post-award support for staff in charge of grant-funded projects, and grants compliance for the YMCA.

Presenting the Y as a unified cause with shared values and a common voice is critical to the Movement’s ability to advance our cause. 

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree required; CFRM, CFRE preferred.
  • 3–5 years of professional experience in development, fundraising, or related fields.
  • Proven success in fundraising strategies, including annual campaigns, major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, special events, and planned giving.
  • Strong public speaking, writing, and storytelling skills, with demonstrated grant writing experience.
  • Knowledge of YMCA programs or previous experience with a YMCA is preferred.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Proficient in donor database management, gift processing, and stewardship best practices.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Demonstrated ability to build relationships and respond effectively to the needs of donors, clients, and community partners.
  • Understanding of planned giving strategies and ability to integrate them into a broader development plan.
  • Ability to identify, research, write, and manage grant proposals and related compliance requirements.
  • Experience designing and implementing systems or procedures for effective grants management.
  • Commitment to upholding YMCA branding and communications standards to promote visibility, awareness, and community engagement.
Essential Functions

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan to advance the development program, with elements that include donor cultivation and stewardship at annual and multi-year levels.
  • Establish a strategic plan for all major gift prospects.
  • Research identified prospects to ensure effective cultivation and solicitation.
  • Provide leadership and identify prospects for planned gifts.
  • Maintain current and accurate files for all prospects.
  • Successfully meet all annual fundraising benchmarks. 
  • Establish and achieve monthly contact goals; ensure same for CEO.
  • Provide oversight and guidance to any and all special fundraising events.
  • Upon successful gift, fulfill donor reporting requirements and coordinate with staff for timely donor recognition.
  • Participate as an active member of appropriate Y Board Committees. 
  • Develop a strong presence in the community through effective networking, planning, and execution of communications programs.
  • Assist in the implementation and augmentation of branch communications appropriate to donor cultivation and stewardship.
  • Act as and supports CEO as an ambassador for the Y, giving skilled presentations to various community groups, including identifying, as well as executing these opportunities.
  • Assist in the development and marketing of mission programs in the community.
  • Direct public relations, thought leadership, employee communications, CEO communications, and crisis communications.
  • Understand the media environment and pitch the Y narrative and associated human interest stories to the appropriate channels.
  • Develop and manage annual communications calendar, serving as project manager to advance Y initiatives.
  • Act as a thought partner with CEO to advance the Y’s narrative and protect the Y’s reputation.
  • Manage major Y messaging.
  • Develop fundraising messaging and materials.
  • Serve as Y spokesperson, as needed.

We offer an exciting and innovative work environment with a culture committed to serving all members of our community. As a leading not-for-profit, community service organization, our Y relies heavily on fundraising to support the wide range of programs we proudly provide the communities we serve. 

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

We Take Care of Our People
Our mission isn't just a statement--it's a guiding force that shapes our actions every day. Rooted in our unwavering commitment to serving our community and esteemed team members, our mission is a true way of life. We're passionate about fostering health and wellness for all, and we're truly excited to introduce the following comprehensive benefits package that has been thoughtfully designed to prioritize your well-being.

Health Insurance: We provide comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, to ensure the well-being of our employees and their families.
Employer Sponsored Basic Life Insurance policy.
Voluntary: Life, AD&D, Critical Illness, and Long-term Disability. 
Retirement Savings Plan: We offer a 9% employer-funded retirement plan upon meeting eligibility, empowering employees to plan for their future.
Paid Time Off: Work-life integration is important to us, which is why we provide a generous amount of paid time off, holidays, Extended Illness Benefit. 
Additional Perks: Free Goodheart Family membership, program discounts, and professional development.