Development Director
JOB DESCRIPTION
Reports To
SVP of Agency Advancement
Status
Full-Time
Department
PR & Development
JOB SUMMARY
The Development Director promotes the vitality and growth of Volunteers of America by increasing financial contributions and broadening community support for the organization's mission. This position leads fundraising strategy, donor cultivation and stewardship, grant development, community partnerships, and related advancement activities, with a focus on growing unrestricted revenue and strengthening long-term organizational support.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Fundraising Strategy and Revenue Growth
- Design and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to achieve organizational goals and grow annual revenue, with a focus on unrestricted revenue.
- Oversee annual appeal campaigns and expand the base of annual individual donors.
- Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects and donors.
- Generate financial support through major gifts, capital campaigns, sponsorships, planned giving, appeals, grant writing, special events, and cause-related partnerships.
- Develop new sources of funding across all communities served and within the organization's charter territory.
- Assist with the planning and execution of fundraising events, including securing sponsorships.
- Initiate and grow a planned giving program.
Grant Research and Preparation
- Research and identify potential funding opportunities with foundations, corporations, and other entities.
- Write and coordinate compelling grant proposals aligned with the organization's mission and priorities.
- Ensure grant submissions are accurate, compelling, and completed within established deadlines.
Donor Engagement and Stewardship
- Build and maintain strong relationships with businesses, individuals, and community groups.
- Develop case statements and other development materials that clearly communicate organizational impact.
- Engage Board members in development efforts and support the goal of full participation in giving by the Board of Directors.
- Manage gift recognition activities and donor appreciation events.
Administration and Collaboration
- Enter and maintain accurate donor information in the RE database.
- Provide support to the CEO and SVP of Agency Advancement as needed.
- Work closely with the Board of Directors' Advancement Committee and other committees, as appropriate.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, fund development, business, communications, or a related field.
- Minimum of three years of progressive experience in fund development with demonstrated results.
- Knowledge of and experience with fundraising techniques, particularly major gifts, capital campaigns, annual appeals, grant writing, corporate engagement, planned giving, and special events.
- Strong interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, and a commitment to people and community.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects and maintain consistent follow-through.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, and donor database systems.
- Self-motivated and collaborative, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends for special events and travel as needed.
- Valid New York State driver's license.
VOA provides comprehensive benefits for eligible employees including:
- Competitive Pay
- Paid Time Off
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Company-Paid Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 403(b), and more!
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Employees may be assigned other job-related duties by their supervisor in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Requirements represent the minimum knowledge, skills, abilities, and qualifications necessary to perform the position. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity and will be considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, or marital status.
Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, fund development, business, communications, or a related field
- At least three years of progressive fund development experience with demonstrated results
- Knowledge and experience with major gifts, capital campaigns, annual appeals, grant writing, corporate engagement, planned giving, and special events
- Strong interpersonal skills, positive attitude, and commitment to people and community
- Strong organizational and detail-oriented skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and follow through consistently
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, and donor database systems
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Ability to work evenings and weekends for special events and travel as needed
- Valid New York State driver’s license
What We Do
Volunteers of America Upstate New York is a non-profit human services agency dedicated to helping individuals and families break the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential. The organization provides long-term solutions to homelessness, addiction, and incarceration through comprehensive programs, including safe housing and support services, childhood education, and reentry programs across Upstate New York to foster self-reliance and stability.

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