Special Event Officer

Where people get better at life! Join us in our mission to make a difference and shape a more inclusive future. The Center for Disability Services offers hope, innovation and achievement to the people we support. For 80 years, we have been one of upstate New York's largest providers of programs and services for individuals who have disabilities. Many of the innovative programs and vital services that we offer are not available elsewhere. The Special Event Officer is responsible for the planning, organization, and execution of fundraising and community engagement events that benefit the Center for Disability Services Foundation. Working closely with the Senior Vice President of Communications & Development, this role cultivates donor and sponsor relationships, manages event logistics and budgets, and collaborates with volunteer committees to ensure successful, mission‑driven special events. This position plays a critical role in advancing the Center's philanthropic goals and strengthening relationships with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders.

Responsibilities:

Plan, organize, and implement all assigned special events and third‑party fundraising events Cultivate and steward relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners Identify, solicit, and secure event sponsorships, in‑kind donations, and direct contributions Work with volunteer committees, board members, and business leaders to develop and execute signature events Oversee all logistical aspects of events to ensure a smooth and professional experience Prepare event budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure events meet or exceed financial goals Track, invoice, and collect all event‑related pledges and sponsorship revenues Maintain accurate event and donor records in the Blackbaud Raiser's Edge NXT (RENXT) database Collaborate with Marketing and Communications to ensure timely development of event materials Coordinate with Finance and Legal departments on vendor invoices and contracts Attend Foundation team meetings, committee meetings, and events as required Represent the Center professionally at public events and community activities Perform additional related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a related field Minimum of 5 years of fundraising and development experience, including special events Demonstrated success cultivating donors and securing sponsorships Strong written and verbal communication skills Excellent interpersonal and relationship‑building skills Proven ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and budgets High level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel locally as required for events

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with Blackbaud Raiser's Edge (RENXT) or similar fundraising databases Knowledge of event platforms and donor management systems Background working with nonprofit boards, volunteers, or community leaders At The Center for Disability Services, we don't just accept difference - we celebrate it, support it, and thrive on it for the benefit of our employees and the people we support. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any protected class of job applicant or employee in our employment practices.

Compensation Range:

$57,150.00 - $63,254.00 For over 80 years, the Center for Disability Services has served as a trusted community leader, providing innovative programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities here in the Capital Region and North Country. We are committed to empowering individuals to lead full, independent lives, and have served over 12,000 people to date. At the Center, we firmly believe that no job is too small when it comes to making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. As a team, every employee plays an integral part in our mission to empower individuals and promote independence. Whether you're directly involved in patient care, coordinating programs, managing operations, or providing essential support, your contribution is vital to creating a brighter and more accessible world for those we serve. Join us in our mission to make a difference and shape a more inclusive future.