Director of Annual Gifts

YMCA OF COASTAL CAROLINA•Myrtle Beach, SC

9h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Annual Gifts advances the YMCA’s mission by designing and executing a comprehensive annual giving strategy focused on donors contributing less than $10,000. This role drives year-round fundraising campaigns, cultivates long-term donor relationships, and strengthens community partnerships. Through collaborative leadership, this position ensures consistent messaging, meaningful stewardship, and alignment with center-level goals and organizational priorities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, fundraising, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in annual giving, nonprofit development, or donor relations.
Demonstrated success managing fundraising campaigns and donor portfolios.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in donor messaging and stewardship.
Proficiency with donor CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, DonorPerfect) and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively across teams.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the philanthropic landscape in South Carolina or similar community-based fundraising experience preferred.
Experience working in a mission-driven, equity-centered nonprofit environment preferred.
Familiarity with YMCA operations, values, and community impact work preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, development, and execution of annual fundraising campaigns across all YMCA centers.
Develop compelling themes, donor segmentation strategies, and timelines for year-round engagement.
Manage all campaign appeals including Palmetto Giving Day, direct mail, email, and digital channels.
Collaborate with center leaders to set and track fundraising goals that reflect local priorities and community needs.
Build, manage, and steward a portfolio of individual donors giving under $10,000.
Implement tailored stewardship strategies to deepen donor engagement and retention.
Ensure a donor-centric approach that honors diversity, equity, and YMCA values.
Identify and cultivate small to mid-sized corporate sponsors and local business partners.
Work in partnership with Marketing and Events teams to deliver high-impact sponsor recognition and engagement.
Develop scalable sponsorship opportunities aligned with YMCA programs and events.
Draft donor-facing materials including appeal letters, newsletters, impact updates, and thank-you letters.
Ensure all messaging is consistent with YMCA brand standards, voice, and inclusive communication practices.
Leverage storytelling and data to communicate the Y’s impact on youth, families, and communities.
Coordinate closely with the Finance and Executive teams to ensure data integrity and timely donor acknowledgment.
Prepare segmented donor reports and campaign analytics for internal stakeholders and leadership review.
Use donor insights to inform strategy and continuously improve fundraising effectiveness