Description
Position Overview
The Assistant Development Director at Our Lady of Grace School, a vibrant Catholic elementary and middle school in Encino, CA, plays a critical role in advancing the school’s mission to provide a faith-based, academically excellent education. Working closely with the Development Director, this position supports fundraising initiatives, donor engagement, community outreach, and alumni relations to ensure the financial sustainability of the school. The ideal candidate is organized, personable, and deeply committed to the values of Catholic education and the Our Lady of Grace School community.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Support
- Assist in executing the school’s annual fundraising plan, including the Annual Giving Campaign, major gifts, and grant applications.
- Support donor cultivation and stewardship through personalized thank-you letters, follow-up communications, and relationship-building activities.
- Research prospective donors, foundations, and corporate partners to expand funding opportunities for Our Lady of Grace School.
- Help prepare grant proposals and reports under the guidance of the Development Director.
- Maintain accurate donor records and track contributions using donor management software.
Event Coordination
- Assist in planning and executing key fundraising and community events, such as the annual Gala, Golf Tournament, and other donor appreciation events.
- Manage event logistics, including vendor coordination, invitations, RSVPs, and on-site support, ensuring alignment with the school’s Catholic values.
- Support the creation of event materials, such as programs, signage, and promotional content, reflecting the school’s mission.
Community and Alumni Engagement
- Support initiatives to engage Our Lady of Grace alumni, fostering lifelong connections with former students and families.
- Assist in organizing alumni events and managing communications, such as newsletters and social media updates, to maintain strong ties.
- Engage with parents, parishioners, and the Encino community to promote the school’s mission and fundraising goals, emphasizing its Catholic identity.
Administrative and Communication Support
- Draft and edit development-related communications, including appeal letters, email campaigns, and social media posts, with a tone that reflects the school’s faith-based values.
- Provide administrative support for development activities, such as scheduling donor meetings, attending and taking notes for the Development and School Board meetings, and preparing reports for school leadership.
- Collaborate with the school’s marketing efforts to ensure consistent messaging that highlights Our Lady of Grace’s commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Requirements
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., nonprofit management, communications, marketing, or education).
- 3 years or more of experience in fundraising, development, or a related field, preferably in a nonprofit or Catholic school setting.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on building relationships with diverse stakeholders, including parents and parishioners.
- Proficiency in donor management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Deep commitment to the mission of Our Lady of Grace School and the values of Catholic education.
Preferred Skills
- Experience in event planning or coordination, particularly in a school or parish setting.
- Familiarity with the Encino community and local philanthropic networks.
- Proficiency with graphic design or marketing tools (e.g., Canva, Mailchimp).
- Active participation in a Catholic faith community.
Work Expectations
- Occasional evening and weekend work required for events, such as school fundraisers, parish activities, or donor meetings.
- Ability to travel locally within the Encino area for community engagement or donor cultivation, as needed.
Wage Range
The rate of pay offered to the selected candidate is based on internal pay policy and budget. New hires are commonly paid at the minimum of the wage range or within the lower part of the range. We consider a number of factors when making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience, training and other department needs.
Information/Application Contact
Our Lady of Grace School (Encino)
17720 Ventura Blvd
Encino, CA 91316
principal@ourladyofgrace.co