Overview:

As 3rd Decade’s inaugural Development Manager, you will play a key role in securing funding and resources to support our mission. The position will develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies including managing and implementing a robust donor cultivation and stewardship process, overseeing  grant writing and reporting activities, and managing special events. You will work directly with our CEO and board of directors to nurture and steward a portfolio of individual donors at various levels while maintaining and growing relationships with local and national corporations and philanthropic organizations that will lead to funding or sponsorship opportunities.  This position will directly contribute to the sustainability and growth of our nonprofit, enabling us to make a positive impact in our community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fundraising Strategy Development: Collaborate with the CEO and Board of Directors to create an annual  development plan which increases brand awareness and revenue to support the strategic direction of 3rd Decade in alignment with our goals and direction
• Donor Cultivation and Stewardship: Identify, cultivate, and nurture relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, foundations, and other potential sources of funding. Provide personalized stewardship to maintain and enhance donor engagement and retention. Create strategic opportunities for the CEO and Board to engage in the cultivation and stewardship process.
• Grant Writing and Management: Research funding opportunities, prepare grant proposals, and manage the grant application process from submission to reporting. Ensure compliance with grant requirements and deadlines and create an annual grant calendar.
• Donor Communications: Develop compelling fundraising appeals, newsletters, and other communication materials to engage donors and highlight the impact of their contributions. Utilize various channels, including social media and email campaigns, to effectively communicate with donors and supporters.
• Special Events Coordination: Plan, coordinate, and execute fundraising events and activities to generate revenue and increase awareness of the organization's mission.
• Database Management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records in the organization's database. Analyze donor data to identify trends, preferences, and opportunities for donor segmentation and targeted outreach.
• Budget Oversight: Work closely with the Chief Operating Officer to develop and monitor fundraising budgets, track revenue and expenses, and provide regular financial reports to the CEO and the board of directors.
• Collaboration and Relationship Building: Collaborate with colleagues across departments to integrate fundraising efforts with programmatic activities and organizational initiatives. Build and maintain strong relationships with board members, staff, volunteers, and other stakeholders to advance fundraising goals.

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, fundraising, communications, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or related roles.
• Proven track record of successful fundraising, including experience with individual giving, major gifts, grants, and special events.
• Experience using and managing a donor database and fundraising software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate the organization's mission and impact to diverse audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, volunteers, and community partners.
• Proficiency in Google and  Microsoft Office Suites.
• Strategic thinking, creativity, and the ability to develop and implement innovative fundraising strategies.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, with a passion for making a difference in the lives of our participants.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to a reliable vehicle for travel to various work-related locations, and maintain adequate car insurance as required by law.