Director of Development

Are you seeking an opportunity to join a high-performing team working to help young people find their inner hero and create compassionate, effective, and lasting change in their communities and beyond? HEART (Humane Education Advocates Reaching Teachers Inc.) is a nonprofit headquartered in New York offering award-winning Pre-K - 12 student programs, teacher training, educational resources, and a unique service-learning approach with a combined focus on social justice, animal protection, and environmental preservation. HEART is at an exciting stage in its organizational evolution, having just launched an ambitious new strategic plan outlining its key initiatives for 2023-26. With support from staff and board members, the Director of Development will be instrumental in building and executing on a robust fundraising plan that positions HEART to deepen and broaden its individual and institutional donor base and achieve its strategic and annual revenue goals. Position Description The Director of Development will start out as an independent contractor working remotely 20-25 hours/week with the potential to transition to a full-time employee role depending on performance and budgetary considerations. Periodic travel within the greater NYC metro area will be required to meet with prospective and current HEART donors as well as staff and board members (approximately 10-20% of working hours). Building and executing on a new fundraising plan and achieving annual fundraising targets in partnership with the HEART team will entail the following responsibilities and deliverables for the individual in this role: Customized, actionable solicitation strategies and outreach materials to grow support from high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and foundation and government agencies. Meticulous identification and cultivation of specific major gift prospects through prospect research and relationship building activities. Direction of annual fundraising program goals and content, including messaging creation and dissemination. Systematic stewardship of current donors via donor appreciation programs and tailored outreach involving effective donor communications, regular donor updates, and marketing materials. Formalization of major giving and legacy