Development Associate

Reports to:

Associate Director of Philanthropy

Hours:

Business Hours Monday Friday. May require attendance at events on evenings and weekends.

General Description

The Philanthropy & Communications Coordinator supports the Development Team in advancing the mission of FRIENDS through fundraising donor engagement marketing communications and special event support.

This position plays a vital role in maintaining donor relationships supporting fundraising initiatives coordinating communications efforts managing donor data and assisting with the planning and execution of fundraising events.

The ideal candidate is organized creative detail-oriented and passionate about making a difference in the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This position offers an excellent opportunity for someone interested in nonprofit fundraising communications marketing and donor relations to grow professionally while contributing to a mission-driven organization.

Responsibilities

Donor Relations & Database Management

• Enter and maintain donor records in DonorPerfect CRM.
• Maintain and update constituent information in databases and communication platforms such as Constant Contact
• Process gifts and ensure donor records remain accurate and up to date.
• Prepare donor acknowledgements and thank-you letters.
• Assist with donor stewardship initiatives and special recognition efforts.
• Generate donor reports and mailing lists as requested.
• Support prospect research and donor cultivation efforts.
• Assist with donor portfolio management projects.

Marketing & Communications

• Assist in creating and scheduling content for social media platforms including Facebook Instagram LinkedIn and other platforms as needed.
• Design marketing materials using Canva and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Assist with the development and distribution of electronic communications through Constant Contact.
• Update website content through GiveCloud.
• Assist with photography and video projects as needed.
• Support storytelling efforts by collecting participant donor volunteer and program impact stories.
• Ensure marketing materials remain consistent with FRIENDS brand standards.

Events & Community Engagement

• Support planning and execution of fundraising events including the Luncheon & Fashion Show Variety Show FRIENDSgiving and other fundraising initiatives.
• Assist with event registration sponsorship fulfillment guest communications and event logistics.
• Coordinate event materials including signage nametags bid numbers programs and auction support materials.
• Assist with volunteer coordination and event preparation.
• Represent FRIENDS at community events as needed.

Administrative Support

• Assist with Development Team projects and administrative tasks.
• Assist with meeting preparation materials and follow-up tasks.
• Participate in Development Team meetings and trainings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Expectations

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Positive attitude flexibility and willingness to learn.
• Passion for the mission of FRIENDS and serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Creative mindset with an interest in fundraising communications and nonprofit leadership.

Education & Training

• Associates or bachelors degree in communications marketing nonprofit management public relations business or a related field preferred.
• One to three years of professional internship volunteer or relevant experience preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with social media management preferred.
• Experience with Canva Adobe Creative Cloud or other design platforms preferred.
• Experience with CRM/database systems preferred; DonorPerfect experience a plus.
• Experience with Constant Contact GiveCloud or similar platforms preferred.

Benefits:

Health vision and dental insurance life and accident insurance PTO six paid sick days eight paid holidays 401(k) match paid training

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Required Experience:

Manager