Communications Director jobs in Keene, NH

The Takodah YMCA seeks a committed and engaged Director of Philanthropy and Communications to collaborate closely with the Executive Director/CEO, Camp Director, and Board of Directors to design and implement a comprehensive strategy and action plan to expand and diversify philanthropic support and constituent involvement with the Takodah YMCA. Primary responsibilities include planning, executing, and evaluating campaigns that support annual giving; cultivating and closing major gifts and strategically leveraging the ED's role in these efforts; strategies to deepen connections and involvement with current families and alumni; database management; designing and implementing a collaborative process with the program team for communications including written, digital, and social to ensure a consistent voice and complimentary timing.

An ideal candidate is someone who works well in a small team environment. While this position comes with a lot of autonomy, it also requires an individual to collaborate with the team and work towards shared goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to help enhance a culture of philanthropy in partnership with the ED/CEO and Board. The 2024 annual fundraising goal is $400,000. The foundation is here, and we are looking for a partner to help us reach the next level.

The position may work remotely on a day-to-day basis, with the ability to drive to the office a few days each month. Ability to travel for donor and alumni visits is required, and some weekends and evenings are required to attend key camp events and board meetings. Ideally, the candidate will spend significant time on-site during the summer camp season.

Takodah’s Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Belonging

The Takodah YMCA is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity, equity, and belonging. We actively promote a culture of equity by continuously surfacing and working against bias and injustice, identifying and resolving inequities, and removing institutional barriers that limit the ability of anyone to develop their full potential. Together, we work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race, or sexual orientation, has the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve with dignity.

Camp Takodah YMCA Facts

The Takodah YMCA has a rich history since its founding in 1913. In 1916, our camp was named Takodah, and we established our motto, “Friendly to All,” reflecting our commitment to fostering belonging, achievement, autonomy, and relationships. Many things have changed, but our core values, traditions, and dedication to youth still guides us.

Benefits

12% company-paid Y Retirement contribution after eligibility requirements are met, generous paid time off plan, medical and dental insurance with substantial company contribution, Employee Assistance Program, employer-paid long-term disability, employer-paid life insurance, and other benefits per personnel policy.

Candidate qualifications include a bachelor's degree, demonstrated experience asking for and closing on fundraising for annual needs and strategic campaigns, and experience building and maintaining long-term relationships with major individuals, donors, foundations, and corporations. The ideal candidate will have strong computer skills using Microsoft Office and Google Suite, relationship databases, and strong writing skills. Grant writing experience is preferred.

Philanthropy

• Develop overall fundraising strategies and year-round stewardship in conjunction with the ED/CEO and Development Committee.
• Executes effective annual campaigns, capital development, and endowment giving.
• Oversees and engages in all aspects of the gift cycle: donor identification and engagement, cultivation, solution, closure, acknowledgment, and stewardship.
• Ensures appropriate tracking and up-to-date best practices are maintained regarding data management.
• Develops the annual case for support and solicitation materials.
• Partner with the Camp Director to build a culture of philanthropy among our seasonal staff.
• Research and identify prospects to ensure effective cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Cultivates and closes major gifts, often working in concert with the ED/CEO. Strategically leverages the ED/CEO’s time to steward top donors and high-level prospects by laying the groundwork for successful interactions and conversations.
• Grows, develops, and strengthens alumni outreach through engagement strategies, such as camp visits, reunions, regional gatherings, home meetings, and other events; locates and organizes key alumni groups and volunteers to assist with alumni cultivation.
• Solicits and collects stories about the impact of the Takodah YMCA on alumni, participants, and parents.
• Manage, motivate, lead and work with the Development and Alumni Committees, and other key volunteers on a variety engagement and development activities.
• Serves as liaison to the Board Development Committee, participating in meetings, providing reports, and supporting philanthropic goals
• Establishes and achieves monthly contact goals; assists the ED/CEO in meeting their goal.
• Provides oversight and guidance to any fundraising events.
• Researches, writes, and reports on grant proposals and foundation requests.

Communications

• Designs and implements a comprehensive communication plan in partnership with the Camp Director.
• Works closely with the Camp Director on year-round marketing efforts for overnight camp.
• Maintains online and social media presence, which includes creating content, measuring impact, acting on results, and improving SEO.
• Provides direction and/or creates all materials for, but not limited to, print, web, and public email.
• Aligns outgoing communications with a consistent message to enhance understanding of our mission and work.
• Supports both off-site and off-property recruitment events, such as open houses, recruitment fairs, tours, etc.

Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the YMCA’s efforts for all stakeholders. Implements effective systems to develop volunteers at program, fundraising, and policy leadership levels. Secures resources and support for all philanthropic endeavors.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging: Personally join the Takodah Y community in a commitment to ensuring access, inclusion, engagement, and affirmation for all. Actively promote a culture of equity that is free from bias and injustice. Strive to achieve equal access, identify and resolve inequities, and remove institutional barriers that limit the ability of anyone to develop their full potential. Support a culture where individuals feel accepted as their authentic selves.

Collaboration: Develop strategies to ensure staff and volunteers reflect the community. Build and nurture strategic relationships to enhance support for the YMCA. Serve as a community leader, building collaborations based on trust and credibility to advance the YMCA's mission and goals. Communicate for influence to attain buy-in and support of goals. Provide tools and resources for the development of others.

Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves members and community in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures, investment policies, and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.

Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. Anticipates challenges that can sidetrack or derail growth and personal learning. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Non-Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Performs other duties as assigned.