Donor Engagement Specialist

Emmanuel Hospice•Grand Rapids, MI

8d•$45

About The Position

Emmanuel Hospice is seeking a mission driven Donor Engagement Specialist to join our team and help advance our vision of providing exceptional, compassionate end‑of‑life care. This role plays a key part in strengthening philanthropic support by cultivating meaningful donor relationships, securing major gifts, and supporting fundraising initiatives that sustain our programs and services. If you are a relationship‑builder with a passion for nonprofit development, we’d love to meet you. Position Summary: The Donor Engagement Specialist supports the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy for Emmanuel Hospice. This position focuses on donor cultivation and stewardship, major gift development, event support, and grant strategy oversight. Working closely with the Director of Marketing and Philanthropy, Vice President of Community Relations, CEO, board members, and senior leadership, the Donor Engagement Specialist ensures fundraising efforts align with organizational priorities and contribute to long‑term sustainability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in fund development; experience working with volunteer committees preferred.
Demonstrated success by securing major gifts and leading fundraising campaigns.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, including strong writing abilities (grant writing, donor letters).
Proficiency with donor database systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders and represent the organization with professionalism and warmth.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Philanthropy to implement the annual fund development plan and budget.
Oversee day‑to-day fundraising activities, monitor trends, and adjust strategies to meet annual goals.
Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gift prospects, including individuals, corporations, and foundations.
Develop and manage a major gifts program, including moves management and donor meetings.
Build strong relationships with donors through personalized communication, stewardship plans, and recognition efforts.
Partner with the Director of Marketing and Philanthropy to plan and support donor‑centric events, including the annual fundraising event, donor receptions, and community engagement activities.
Assist with fundraising campaigns and appeals, including messaging, content creation, and donor materials across print and digital platforms.
Support employees giving initiatives and contribute to donor communications such as newsletters, appeals, and social media.
Oversee the work of the grant writer and help develop the organization’s grant funding strategy.
Maintain relationships with foundation representatives and ensure compliance with grant requirements.
Participate in the Fund Development Committee of the Board.
Support board members in strengthening their fundraising capacity and engagement.
Provide regular updates on fundraising progress and activities.
Coordinate in‑kind and financial donations for Emmanuel Hospice’s patient wish program.
Attend all fund development and outreach events as a representative of Emmanuel Hospice.
Occasional travel required.