Career Opportunity for a Development Associate

Job Title: Development Associate
Classification: Exempt
Type: Full-time
Reports To: Executive Director

Summary/Objective:

The Development Associate is responsible for stewardship activities related to fundraising and relationship management, including implementation of the development plan; grant writing and administration; event support; and fundraising communications. This position is an excellent opportunity to assist with taking an established fundraising program to the next level by growing the organization’s capacity to cultivate and steward a growing number of donors.

About the WCF:

The Willa Cather Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that promotes the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather through education, preservation, and the arts. Since its founding in 1955, the WCF has been located in Red Cloud—a small and vibrant community in south-central Nebraska.

Essential Functions:

  • Assist with implementation of the development plan, which incorporates a range of strategies, including annual appeals, major gift solicitation, grants, memberships, corporate sponsorships, and special events
  • Work to secure program-related sponsorships, grants, and contributions
  • Identify grant opportunities, manage funder relationships, write proposals and reports, and manage grant calendar to ensure timely submissions for scheduled and rolling opportunities throughout the year
  • Assist with development of direct mail appeals and acknowledgements
  • Draft routine updates and strategies for the annual development plan and calendar
  • Assist in the planning and implementation of fundraising events
  • Support donor and volunteer recognition efforts
  • Keep detailed notes of donor meetings
  • Assist with content development to highlight donor stories and fundraising appeals for social media, newsletters, and annual reports
  • Aid with execution and operation of an existing planned giving program
  • Support the work of the development committee
  • Travel to fundraising events in Red Cloud, Omaha, Lincoln, or other locations on occasion

Education and Experience:

  • A bachelor’s degree is preferred, but relevant coursework in business, education, communication, the humanities, or fine arts will also be considered.
  • Prior experience in the nonprofit field is preferred, but not required.
  • Experience with donor management software and/or Blackbaud eTapestry is preferred, but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Highly motivated and the ability to manage multiple projects with deadlines
  • A gifted storyteller with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively
  • Knowledge of Google Workspace and Microsoft Office software
  • An appreciation for literature, the humanities, and the arts
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build lasting relationships
  • The ability and desire to work cooperatively with others on a team
  • A life-long learner who embraces opportunities to continue to grow professionally
  • Adeptness to reprioritize projects as new assignments arise

Schedule and Work Environment:

Generally Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekends as needed for events. Flex time is available. A remote work arrangement is available to candidates with established home office space. A 30-day onboarding in Red Cloud is desired; arrangements are negotiable.

Salary and Benefits:

A competitive wage will be based on experience. Benefits, including health insurance, IRA, paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO) are available. Housing and relocation support are also available for candidates who wish to reside in Red Cloud.

This job description may evolve over time. Duties and the position status are subject to periodic updating. At management’s discretion, the employee may be assigned different and/or additional responsibilities.

To apply, send cover letter, résumé, and the names of three professional references to:  

The Willa Cather Foundation 
Attn: Human Resources 
413 North Webster Street 
Red Cloud, NE 68970 
humanresources@willacather.org
www.WillaCather.org

DEADLINE:

Applicants are encouraged to apply by September 12th. The position will remain open until filled.