Development Associate

POSITION SUMMARY

At the Clay Center, we are dedicated to inspiring creativity, learning, and wonder through experiences in the arts and sciences for everyone in WV and the region, and we are excited to share how you can contribute to our team. The Development Associate role is a great entry point for anyone looking to make a real impact in our organization. In this position, you will work closely with our development team, supporting fundraising initiatives, entering and analyzing data, crafting donor communications, and helping with event planning. You will get to collaborate with different departments, gain hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising, and develop skills that will help you grow in your career. We are looking for detail-oriented, proactive individuals who are ready to engage in meaningful work. If you are passionate about making a difference and contributing to enriching experiences in the arts and sciences, I encourage you to explore the job description and see how you can play a key role at the Clay Center!

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Administrative Support:

• Draft and send donor communications, such as thank you letters, birthday messages, newsletters and impact reports, pledge confirmations, and invoices.
• Research potential funding sources and grant opportunities.
• Analyze donor data and create reports to assess the effectiveness of development initiatives.
• Prepare materials for donor meetings and presentations.
• Support the grant writing process by gathering information and documentation.
• Manage donor benefits fulfillment in connection with Annual Fund, Sponsorships, and Major Gifts programs.
• Provide logistical and administrative support for all fundraising and other development events.
• Generate monthly pledge reminders and invoices.
• Maintain fundraising dashboards to track progress to goals.
• Prepare accurate donor recognition lists for publications.
• Coordinate development committee and subcommittee meetings, track attendance, assist with the preparation of presentations, and take minutes.
• Handle donor inquiries and provide exceptional customer service.
• Conduct donor and prospective donor research.
• Provide general administrative support to development team members, as needed.

Donor Database Management:

• Manage and update records in the Raiser's Edge database.
• Regularly audit constituent records to ensure the integrity of the database.
• Update donor/constituent records in the Clay Center’s ticketing software, as well as the Raiser’s Edge, to ensure consistency of data.
• Create queries, reports, and mailing lists, as requested.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in donor management or similar software
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience with event planning and coordination
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of donor information
• Enthusiastic about the mission and goals of the Clay Center
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education: High School diploma required, Bachelor degree preferred.

Experience: Three years of professional experience preferred. Demonstrated experience in computer programs and applications; 2 years experience in a position requiring daily use of a database is desirable.

Computer Skills: Familiarity with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Outlook, etc) and comfortable learning new technology systems; experience with The Raiser’s Edge a definite plus.

Other Requirements: Highly organized; excellent oral and written communications skills; broad applications of computer and software skills; strong interpersonal skills.

To apply, please send your resume to akidder@theclaycenter.org