the client’s mission is to prevent homelessness and break the cycle of family poverty by promoting pathways to economic independence. The client delivers direct services that help families at risk of or experiencing homelessness overcome barriers to higher education and family-sustaining careers, supporting lasting economic and housing stability. The client also engages program participants through an advocacy function to help drive systemic change based on lived experience. Through its development and communications work, the client aims to grow philanthropic support in support of these goals, with an emphasis on expanding its funding base, strengthening its brand, and deepening donor relationships.
As a member of the executive team, the Director of Development and Communications will build and execute a multi-year philanthropic revenue strategy across corporate, foundation, and individual giving. The role will include developing and maintaining revenue projections with scenario planning and risk assessment, managing the donor pipeline and analytics, and producing performance reporting for senior leadership and the board. The director will cultivate and steward relationships with major donors and funders, support six-figure and multi-year grant efforts, help grow major gifts through cultivation and donor engagement, and prepare for a future comprehensive campaign by identifying emerging priorities. The position also involves planning and evolving signature fundraising events, including an annual gala and smaller gatherings, and introducing new formats to deepen donor participation.
In addition, the Director of Development and Communications will lead communications by defining key themes and messaging and ensuring consistency across digital, print, media, and donor-facing channels. The director will champion ethical storytelling that centers the lived experiences of the families served and develop personalized donor engagement approaches using creative, digital, and campaign-based strategies. This role will lead a three-person team and foster a culture of philanthropy across the organization, ensuring development work aligns with the client’s mission and values, while collaborating closely with the executive director and board development functions. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong alignment with the client’s mission and belief in the importance of higher education and stable, family-sustaining careers, alongside a track record of leading comprehensive development efforts.