Position: Development Director

Hours: 30-40 hours/week, occasional weekends, holidays and evenings

Description:

The Homeless Garden Project (HGP) is a nonprofit organization based in Santa Cruz, CA that provides job training, transitional employment and support services to people who are homeless. As an important complement to these programs, HGP operates a vibrant community volunteer and education program. The training, employment, education and volunteer programs take place in an organic farm and related enterprises.

Our grassroots program is funded through a mix of donations from individuals, grants, events and earned income. In 2014, about 57% of our income came from donations, grants and events.

HGP seeks an experienced and dedicated individual to direct our Fund Development and Fundraising program during this exciting time in our history. We seek an enthusiastic, outgoing, resourceful and organized person skilled in communication, marketing, coordination, outreach, and building partnerships. The ideal candidate will also have an interest in agriculture and social enterprises and a sincere commitment to ending homelessness. The Development Director will continue and build on HGP’s partnerships with donors of all kinds who are committed to HGP’s mission: In the soil of our urban farm and garden, people find the tools they need to build a home in the world.

JOB SUMMARY: The Development Director reports to the Executive Director. In this role, the Development Director will create and implement the annual fundraising plan in coordination with the Executive Director and Development Committee. We value relationship-based fundraising, and seek an individual with professional standards and excellent communication skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead in the development and implementation of the Development Plan that meets or exceeds HGP development budget goals by incorporating a range of strategies including annual appeals, major donors, grants, corporate and individual appeals, and special events.
Support and guide the Development Committee, including creation of agendas, materials, and notes, reserving room, providing lunch.
On a monthly basis, analyze and report to the Executive Director on progress on meeting fundraising goals as identified in the Development Plan.
Attend HGP board meetings as needed.
Implement a donor cultivation program that engages Board members, Development Committee members, and volunteers in donor-focused activities such as hand written notes to donors, thank you phone calls, and event roles.
Craft thank you letters and appeals.
Other duties upon request.

Job Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree
A minimum of three years experience in fundraising and demonstrated effectiveness as an impactful development professional
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Grant writing experience preferred
Knowledge of social media tools: Facebook, Twitter, website management
Ability to handle some flexible hours (weekdays, some evenings, and an occasional Saturday and Sunday to help with events)
Experience with organizing special events
An understanding of and belief in, the mission of HGP

Skills and Qualifications:

Organizational, project planning and leadership skills.
Exceptional interpersonal skills: ability to interact effectively with community leaders, board members, corporate managers, prospects, donors, and a variety of volunteers.
Must be able to coordinate multiple tasks and be open to new learning experiences.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
Creativity, drive, enthusiasm and initiative to carry projects to conclusion.
Knowledge of event management, processes, and available resources including social marketing and web-based strategies.
Strong knowledge Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to learn Fundraiser database management software required.
Design skills preferred

Salary: $20-25 Commensurate with experience

Benefits: Health reimbursement, 16 days vacation, 6 days sick leave, 9 days paid holiday (prorated for part time)

Reports to: Executive Director

Job Category: Fundraising

Area of Focus: Fundraising/Fund development, Special events, Job training/transitional employment, Farming, Homelessness, Social Enterprise

Applications: Mail resume, cover letter and contact information for three references to Darrie Ganzhorn, Executive Director, P.O. Box 617, Santa Cruz, CA 95061 or email to darrieg@homelessgardenproject.org. Resumes will be accepted until position is filled.