Events & Volunteer Manager (Full-time, hybrid)

Position Highlights:

• Full-time hybrid position
• Compensation: $65K-$70K annual salary
• Location: Wilmette IL
• Generous benefits package

Company Overview:

Hope Ignites Chicago (formerly Boys Hope Girls Hope of Illinois) is a transformative organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education and opportunity. Founded in 1977 by Jesuit Priest Fr. Paul Sheridan we provide stable homes wraparound support and scholarships to academically capable Chicago-area youth who face seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Our impact speaks for itself: 100% of our high school graduates go on to college and 75% graduate from college compared to just 15% in their demographic nationally. We support Scholars from middle school through career launch making us unique in our comprehensive long-term commitment to each young persons success.

As part of an international network serving 16 locations across the US and Latin America Hope Ignites Chicago offers more than just financial support we provide homes opportunity co-parenting and education to help motivated young people realize their dreams.

Position Overview:

Were seeking a passionate results-driven Events & Volunteer Manager to join our development team and play a crucial role in sustaining our mission. This dynamic role combines strategic event management with volunteer cultivation requiring someone who thrives in a collaborative environment while working independently under tight deadlines.

Youll oversee three major annual fundraising events our Golf Outing (Drive Fore Hope) Evening of Hope Gala and Spring Event while building and nurturing our volunteer community. This position is perfect for someone who loves bringing people together for a meaningful cause and has a proven track record in nonprofit fundraising events.

What You Will Be Responsible For:

Event Management Excellence

• Plan and execute three major annual fundraising events from concept to completion
• Develop event themes secure venues manage vendor relationships and coordinate all logistics
• Oversee auction activities fund-a-need campaigns and day-of-event fundraising efforts
• Create and maintain event budgets in partnership with leadership and committees
• Manage guest lists seating arrangements and attendee communications
• Utilize event management software to track organize and analyze event performance

Volunteer Development & Engagement

• Cultivate and grow our Friends of Hope Ignites volunteer network
• Recruit and manage event committee volunteers essential to our success
• Create quarterly volunteer communications and identify meaningful engagement opportunities
• Coach volunteers on auction solicitation and donor cultivation
• Build lasting relationships that expand involvement across the organization

Strategic Partnership & Communication

• Collaborate with the communications team on marketing strategies across digital and traditional platforms
• Draft solicitation materials program content and event communications
• Support smaller donor events and cultivation activities
• Manage post-event follow-up acknowledgments and pledge collection
• Provide regular progress reports to staff volunteers and leadership

What You Bring to the Role:

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required
• 5 years of nonprofit event management and fundraising experience
• Exceptional relationship management and interpersonal skills
• Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and event management platforms (OneCause experience preferred)
• Salesforce experience is highly desirable
• Access to a personal vehicle for meetings and events

Professional Qualities

• Natural ability to cultivate relationships and inspire action
• Strong project management skills with attention to detail
• Budget management experience and strategic planning capabilities
• Self-directed team player who thrives in mission-driven environments
• Diplomatic tactful approach with vendors donors and volunteers
• Creative problem-solver with excellent customer service skills
• Sense of humor and professional maturity

Personal Commitment

• Genuine passion for Hope Ignites Chicagos mission and beneficiaries
• Willingness to leverage personal networks to advance organizational goals
• Understanding of and commitment to working with underserved youth

Compensation Benefits and Job Structure:

This is a full-time hybrid position with three days per week (two days remote) in the Wilmette-based offices. Evening and some weekend work is required for events and donor activities. The role offers an annual salary of $65000 to $70000 as well as an excellent benefits package including medical dental and vision insurance 401k plan PTO/Paid Leave and life & disability insurance.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a cover letter through the NextGroup website to apply. A member of the Hope Ignites Chicago team will contact you to schedule an interview if your background aligns with the role.

Ready to make a lasting impact on young lives while building your career in nonprofit development We want to hear from you.