Development Associate

WHO WE ARE

The Gloucester Education Foundation (GEF) was formed in 2005 by a group of Gloucester residents who were committed to public education and wanted to bring support to the Gloucester Public Schools, which at the time were facing serious budget challenges threatening arts, music, and science. GEF set out to transform the way education was approached in the Gloucester schools, with the goal of making the Gloucester Public School District one of the best in the state. Since then, GEF has raised over $9M in donations and grants, catalyzing new and innovative programs for all ages throughout the district. 

WHAT WE SEEK

A focused, creative fundraising professional who is committed to supporting public schools through a non-profit education foundation. The Development Associate will work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to deepen our fundraising efforts through direct mail, online appeals, events, print materials, program visits, and donor cultivation and stewardship activities. They will communicate effectively in words and action with a variety of stakeholders to further GEF’s mission and expand our resources. The candidate should  have a proven track record of securing individual and organizational donations, grants, and sponsorships.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform research and analysis to identify prospective donors at all levels of giving
• Coordinate donor stewardship and cultivation activities 
• Work with Executive Director and External Affairs Committee on specialized strategies to expand existing donor pool (monthly giving, alumni giving, honor-a-teacher)
• Support campaign appeals (year-end, lapsed donor, spring, capital)
• Research new grant, sponsorship, and corporate giving opportunities
• Coordinate logistics for donor appreciation and fundraising events, and work with Executive Director to maximize impact following each event 
• Manage donor database and generate key reports
• Participate in monthly External Affairs meetings
• Other Development-related duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

At least 2 years of relevant professional experience in a non-profit setting. Belief in the mission and vision of the Gloucester Education Foundation and alignment with its values. Familiarity with the Gloucester community and its public schools is a significant asset in this role.

SKILLS, ABILITIES, COMPETENCIES

• Knowledge of and experience with effective fundraising for small non-profit organizations
• Experience using cloud-based donor databases (Little Green Light or similar preferred)
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office Suite; capable of mastering new applications and technologies
• Exceptional written and oral communications skills
• Well-organized, with a strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Creative, solutions-oriented problem-solving skills
• The ability to work both collaboratively and independently, seeking support when needed
• A flexible mindset that can tolerate evolving priorities and timelines
• Availability to work occasional evening/weekend events and meetings 
• Ability to lift up to 30lb and stand for long periods of time (needed for events)
• Commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and the role public schools play in promoting these ideals

LOCATION & SCHEDULE

This position is based in Gloucester, MA with schedule flexibility and the opportunity for some remote hours at the Executive Director’s discretion. The GEF office is accessible by public transportation (Commuter Rail/CATA bus).

COMPENSATION

This position will average 25 hours/week, with some fluctuation throughout the year. Pay range is $25-30/hour. There is the possibility to take on more tasks and hours over time. Benefits include six paid holiday/personal days, accrued sick time, a monthly parking permit, and paid professional development opportunities.

GEF is accepting applications until the position is filled, with an ideal start date by October 15, 2023. Please send your resume and cover letter via email to: emailus@thinkthebest.org. In the subject line, include your name and the position title. GEF is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to creating an inclusive organization. We actively seek a diverse pool of candidates for this position, including alumni of the Gloucester Public Schools.