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At the YMCA of Southwest Florida, we believe in strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
We serve thousands of families and individuals across seven counties in Southwest Florida. With ten thriving branches, from Bradenton to Bonita Springs, as well as four Early Learning Academies, and two Charter Middle Schools, we strive to empower more than 1,200 dedicated employees to make a lasting impact every day.
Now, we’re preparing to embark on one of the most transformative efforts in our history — a $100 million multi-year capital campaign to expand access, modernize facilities, and create spaces that inspire lifelong wellness, learning, and connection.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of our community — and we’re looking for a visionary leader to make it happen.
As our next Chief Development Officer (CDO), you’ll lead the charge in building the philanthropic momentum that will power our next century of service.
Reporting directly to the CEO and working alongside a passionate Board of Directors, you’ll design and drive a bold, multi-year campaign that redefines what’s possible for the YMCA and the Southwest Florida region.
This is not a maintenance role — it’s a career-defining opportunity for a strategic, innovative, and relationship-driven leader ready to create lasting community transformation.
Lead a Landmark Campaign
• Design and lead the execution of a comprehensive, multi-year $100 million capital campaign spanning throughout the counties we serve — guiding projects from concept and feasibility through completion to expand facilities, strengthen programs, and deepen community impact.
• Build excitement, trust, and philanthropic vision across communities, foundations, and corporations while expanding our philanthropic reach beyond our current 7-million-dollar annual giving goal.
• Collaborate with the CEO, Board, and volunteers to align fundraising priorities with strategic growth initiatives.
Cultivate Major and Transformational Giving
• Personally manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors capable of making six- and seven-figure investments.
• Engage philanthropists and institutional funders in supporting youth, family, and wellness initiatives.
• Expand endowment and planned giving programs to ensure long-term impact.
Build a Culture of Philanthropy
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a dynamic development team.
• Partner with branch leaders and volunteers to embed a culture of giving throughout the organization.
• Foster collaboration, transparency, and innovation in all fundraising operations.
Innovate & Modernize Development Strategy
• Leverage technology, data insights, and storytelling to connect donors with impact.
• Integrate CRM systems, analytics, and digital tools for donor engagement and stewardship.
• Evaluate and optimize fundraising events, campaigns, and donor experiences.
What Success Looks Like
· Record-setting $100 million campaign completed with community pride and visibility.
· Thriving pipeline of lifelong donors and community champions.
· Modernized, future-ready YMCA positioned as a regional leader in youth and family development.
Why Join Us
At the YMCA of Southwest Florida, you’ll join a trusted community institution at a moment of historic growth. You’ll have the resources, credibility, and platform to drive one of the most ambitious philanthropic initiatives in the region.
You’ll also enjoy:
• A collaborative, mission-driven culture working with an innovative group of YMCA professionals dedicated to the success of the project
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Opportunities to innovate, lead, and make lasting impact
• The Southwest Florida lifestyle — where sunshine, beaches, and a vibrant, family-friendly community await
Join Us in Building What’s Next
If you’re a visionary development leader ready to make history, we’d love to meet you.