Development Manager: Fundraising & Partnerships
Green Adventure Project School
Charlottesville, VA (In Person)
Part-Time
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Job Description
About GAP School Green Adventure Project School (GAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit outdoor, experiential learning community in Charlottesville, Virginia. Our mission is to provide hands-on learning and transformative experiences that foster resilience, curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to stewardship and sustainability. As a growing school with a strong and engaged community, GAP School is ready to expand its impact. We are seeking a relationship-driven fundraiser to help build and strengthen our development efforts. Position Overview The Development Manager will play a key role in growing GAP School's fundraising efforts by building relationships with donors, securing grant funding, and supporting a sustainable development strategy. This is a high-impact, part-time role ideal for someone who enjoys both strategy and execution, and is excited to help grow a mission-driven organization. Key Responsibilities Fundraising Strategy & Donor Development (40-45%) Develop and implement a fundraising strategy across individual donors, foundations, and community partners Build and manage a pipeline of prospective donors (identify, cultivate, solicit, steward) Partner with leadership and board members to expand donor networks and engagement Grants & Institutional Funding (20-25%) Research and pursue grant opportunities aligned with GAP School's mission Write and submit compelling grant proposals and reports Manage relationships with foundation partners Campaigns, Events & Communications (20-25%) Support and strengthen fundraising campaigns and events Develop donor-facing materials including emails, proposals, and impact updates Collaborate with leadership to tell GAP's story in a compelling and authentic way Systems & Tracking (10%) Maintain donor records and track contributions, communications, and outcomes Use simple systems to support organization and inform strategy What Success Looks Like (Year One) A clear and actionable fundraising plan is established A growing pipeline of engaged donors and prospects Increased donor engagement and retention New grant funding secured Improved systems for tracking and communication Qualifications Experience in fundraising, development, nonprofit advancement, or related field Demonstrated success securing gifts from individuals and/or foundations Strong writing skills, particularly in grant writing and donor communications Excellent relationship-building and communication skills Organized, self-motivated, and able to work independently Preferred Experience Experience working in a small or growing nonprofit Background in education, outdoor programs, or youth development Familiarity with donor tracking systems (CRM or equivalent tools)