Position: Development Director
Reports to: Executive Director
About the Role:
United Methodist Open Door is looking for a Development Director who cares about our mission to help expand our impact. In 2025 alone, we served over 32,000 unduplicated individuals in need of food, clothing, and shelter. Every relationship you build and dollar you help raise supports neighbors who need it most, providing access to food, clothing, and shelter. This is an opportunity to be part of something meaningful, where your efforts help ensure that everyone in our community has the dignity, support, and basic needs they deserve. You will inherit a very strong annual fund program with hundreds of established supporters. Whether you’ve followed a traditional path or built your skills in other ways, what matters most is your ability to build relationships, communicate effectively, and drive results. Please submit resume and cover letter to administration@umopendoor.org.
What You’ll Do:
As our Development Director, you’ll play a key role in shaping and executing our fundraising strategy while working closely with leadership and the Board.
- Lead the development of fundraising goals, strategies, and action plans, and evaluate what’s working to keep improving
- Partner with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to strengthen fund development efforts and provide regular updates
- Supervise and support a part-time Development Assistant, helping guide priorities and day-to-day work
- Identify, cultivate, and connect with major donors, building meaningful, long-term relationships
- Develop and grow relationships with individual, corporate, and foundation supporters; prepare reports to support decisions
- Research, write, and submit compelling grant proposals and stewardship communications
- Plan and execute annual and special fundraising campaigns (direct mail, endowment, planned giving, etc.)
- Shape messaging across the website, social media, donor newsletters, and campaign materials to engage and inspire donors
- Plan and support events that build community and celebrate our supporters
- Maintain accurate donor records and track engagement and progress
- Stay current on fundraising trends, tools, and best practices
What We’re Looking For:
We recognize that great candidates don’t always check every box. If you bring relevant skills and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply. Whether your background comes from professional roles, volunteer work, or transferable skills, we value diverse paths and perspectives.
- Experience in fundraising, development, communications, or a related field
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and comfort connecting with a wide range of people
- Ability to build relationships and inspire others to support a mission
- Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects
- Familiarity with fundraising tools or CRM systems (or willingness to learn)
- Four-year college degree in a relevant field