Philanthropy and Engagement Associate

Great Plains Spca•Merriam, KS

11d•$45,000 - $55,000•Onsite

About The Position

THE PHILANTHROPY AND ENGAGEMENT ASSOCIATE PLAYS A VITAL FRONTLINE ROLE IN BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTION AND DONOR RELATIONSHIPS IN SUPPORT OF GREAT PLAINS SPCA’S LIFESAVING MISSION. THIS POSITION IS EVENLY SPLIT BETWEEN SUPPORTING COMMUNITY AND SIGNATURE EVENTS (50%) AND ASSISTING WITH DONOR ENGAGEMENT AND FUNDRAISING PROGRAMS (50%), INCLUDING MONTHLY GIVING, AND LOWER TO MID-LEVEL DONORS ($500–$2,499). The ideal candidate is highly organized, people-oriented, and passionate about animal welfare, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities while delivering a warm, professional donor experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
1–3 years of experience in nonprofit development, events, fundraising, or community engagement preferred.
Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail and follow-through.
Confident communicator with strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends for events.
Proficiency with donor databases (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, or similar) and Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.
Passion for animal welfare and alignment with Great Plains SPCA’s mission and values
Ability to handle dogs and cats of all sizes, ages, temperaments and needs safely and appropriately.
Possess knowledge of animal behavior and training to provide options for HERO pets and Foster Pets and families.
Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrate strong organizational skills and follow through on job assignments.
Provide a compassionate and humane environment: by demonstrating empathy and professionalism.
Strong interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent customer service and professionalism.
Compassion and empathy for animal and human clients.
Ability to work individually and on a team, multi-task and self-start.
Ability to remain calm and empathic in stressful situations.
Possess a valid driver’s license.
Other shelter duties as assigned

Responsibilities

Support the Major Gifts program by assisting with donor research, meeting preparation, stewardship activities, and follow-up communications.
Manage and support the monthly giving program, including donor onboarding, acknowledgments, retention efforts, and upgrades.
Assist with cultivation and stewardship of lower- and mid-level donors ($500–$2,499), including personalized outreach, event invitations, and recognition.
Prepare donor correspondence such as thank-you letters, impact updates, and appeals, ensuring timely and accurate communication.
Maintain accurate donor records, gift entry support, and reporting in the donor database (CRM) Bloomerang.
Collaborate with the Philanthropy team to identify opportunities for donor engagement, upgrades, and deeper involvement.
Plan, coordinate, and execute community engagement events, third-party fundraisers, and outreach opportunities.
Provide logistical and on-site support for large-scale signature fundraising events, including setup, registration, check-in, volunteer coordination, and breakdown.
Serve as a visible ambassador for Great Plains SPCA at community events, representing the organization with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Coordinate event-related communications, materials, and timelines in collaboration with philanthropy and engagement staff.
Track event participation, sponsorship fulfillment, and follow-up tasks to ensure excellent stewardship of attendees and partners.
Assist with cleaning of and care of animals as needed.
Work with staff and volunteers to provide animals and visitors with a safe, clean and pleasant experience.