Position: Director of Development
Job Type: Full time
Salary Range: $90,000 – $110,000 per year
Reports To: Executive Director
Job Summary: The Director of Development is a key leadership role responsible for
designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive, multi-channel fundraising
strategy to support both the short- and long-term financial health of RYSE. With an
annual budget exceeding $7 million, RYSE relies on strategic, relationship-driven
philanthropy to sustain and expand its mission to serve youth experiencing
homelessness in Hawaiʻi.
As a compassionate and culturally grounded advocate for our youth, the Director blends
strategic planning, community-centered relationship-building, trauma-informed
storytelling, and donor stewardship to fuel our work. This leader is responsible for
growing contributed revenue across major gifts, foundation and government grants,
corporate sponsorships, special events, and community engagement initiatives—while
embodying aloha and honoring the lived experiences of youth in Hawaii.
Job Responsibilities:
Fundraising Strategy & Revenue Growth
- Develop and execute a comprehensive annual development plan with clear,
measurable goals for diversifying and increasing revenue. - Secure major gifts by cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding a portfolio of
individual, corporate, and foundation donors; cultivate relationships grounded in
trust, authenticity, and cultural humility. - Oversee all aspects of grant management, including prospecting, proposal
development, reporting, and collaboration with program staff to ensure timely,
compelling submissions. - Direct special events to maximize revenue, deepen community ties, and elevate
public awareness of youth homelessness in Hawaiʻi. - Build a culture of philanthropy by engaging the Board of Directors and staff in
fundraising activities and leveraging their networks. - Strengthen our culture of philanthropy by engaging Board members and staff in
fundraising efforts and activating their networks during the annual campaign.
Donor Engagement & Stewardship - Maintain accurate donor and gift records in the Comprehensive Relationships
Management (CRM) system, ensuring data integrity and timely acknowledgment. - Implement high-quality stewardship practices that reflect RYSE’s commitment to
gratitude, respect, and relationship-based fundraising. - Use trauma informed- and ethical storytelling in appeals, marketing materials,
impact reports, and donor communications to honor the dignity of the youth we
serve.
Community Service Projects & Volunteer Coordination - Oversee community service projects that engage schools, corporations, civic
groups, and volunteers in supporting RYSE housing and programs. - Oversee the recruitment, training, and supervision of volunteers, ensuring
culturally sensitive orientation and positive, mission-aligned experiences. - Develop and maintain community partnerships that enhance volunteer
engagement and increase visibility for RYSE.
Leadership & Administration - Supervise and mentor development staff (e.g., Grant Writer, Volunteer
Coordinator, etc) in a collaborative, strength-based manner. - Manage the development department budget and provide regular progress
reports to the Executive Director and Board of Directors. - Stay informed about local and national funding landscapes, industry trends, and
policies impacting youth homelessness and philanthropic practice. - Model professionalism, integrity, and aloha in all internal and external
interactions
Required Qualifications:- Experience: Minimum 5+ years of successful nonprofit fundraising experience,
with a strong track record in major gifts and donor cultivation. - Passionate Advocacy: Deep commitment to supporting underserved youth and
addressing homelessness through culturally humble, trauma-informed practice. - Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to develop fundraising strategies, set
ambitious goals, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. - Communication Skills: Exceptional writing, public speaking, and interpersonal
communication abilities; strong narrative and storytelling skills. - Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of Certified Relationships Management
(CRM) systems and MS Office Suite. - Leadership: Experience supervising staff and/or volunteers and fostering
collaborative team environments.
Preferred Qualifications - Experience with Youth Services: Professional experience in youth
development, homelessness services, or related human services fields. - Grant Writing Success: Proven ability to secure government grants or major
foundation awards. - Professional Credential: Certified Fund Raiser Certification (CFRC).
- Local Knowledge: Understanding Hawaiʻi’s philanthropic landscape, cultural
values, and community dynamics.
Educational Requirements: - Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, non profit management,
communications or public administration
Physical Demands & Work Environment
This position involves engaging with diverse communities, participating in site visits, and
attending policy discussions. Reasonable accommodations will be made to ensure
accessibility.
While primarily office-based, occasional fieldwork, community meetings, and housing
site evaluations may be required. Standard office responsibilities include document
preparation, computer use, and phone communication.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
RYSE is committed to equity, inclusion, and social impact. We encourage applications
from individuals of all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community and
those with lived experiences in housing insecurity.
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