Development Contractor-Fostering Connections

Description

Essential duties and responsibilities

Identify, research, and cultivate individual and corporate donor prospects in collaboration with the CEO and Development Committee. Develop and implement donor cultivation and stewardship strategies that deepen engagement and increase annual giving. Support sponsorship and partnership outreach for key initiatives and events. Create donor communications, acknowledgment letters, and impact updates that inspire continued support. Research new grant opportunities and assist with proposal writing and submission. Work with the CEO and cross-trained staff to ensure timely, strategic grant submissions and follow-up reporting. Collaborate with board members and committee leads on donor outreach and cultivation efforts. Strengthen relationships with civic groups, corporations, and community partners that align with Fostering Connections’ mission. Lead the development of a comprehensive Development Strategic Plan that guides fundraising growth and sustainability. Track fundraising progress and share regular updates with the CEO and Board of Directors. Help organize donor data and implement improved stewardship systems. Contribute to capacity-building projects, such as reserve fund planning and exploring fee-based service models.

Qualifications

Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit management (contract or staff). Experience supporting a growing or scaling nonprofit strongly preferred. Strong understanding of donor cultivation, stewardship, and grant processes; experience creating or supporting a development plan preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling donor materials and correspondence. Highly organized and self-motivated, able to manage projects independently and meet deadlines while working remotely or with minimal supervision. Skilled at building authentic relationships with donors, partners, and community stakeholders. Proficient with CRM or donor management systems (e.g., Givebutter, Bloomerang, or similar) and standard office tools such as Google Workspace. Passion for Fostering Connections’ mission to empower youth and families impacted by the foster care system through opportunities, tools, and resources to thrive. Preferred Qualifications Experience developing or implementing a strategic fundraising plan. Knowledge of Northeast Florida’s philanthropic landscape. Familiarity with small-to-mid-size nonprofit fundraising structures and best practices for scaling sustainable growth.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, public relations, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and professional experience. 3–5 years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising or development, preferably with a small or scaling organization. Demonstrated success in donor cultivation and stewardship, corporate sponsorship outreach, and strategic fundraising planning. Proven ability to build and manage relationships with individual, corporate, and foundation partners. Experience developing systems or processes that improve donor engagement, reporting, and revenue diversification. Consulting or contract experience with nonprofits is a plus.

Salary/Salary Range

$40 per hour 10 hours per week (contractor position) Hybrid role with flexible scheduling — primarily remote, with occasional in-person meetings or events in the Northeast Florida area. This position is designed to scale into a full-time role as Fostering Connections’ fundraising capacity and development infrastructure expand.

How to Apply

To apply, please email resume to Aubrie Simpson-Gotham, Founder & CEO, at fosteringconnectionsfl@gmail.com. The position start date will be January 5, 2026.