Director of Annual Giving
Company: YMCA
Location: Basking Ridge
Posted on: July 10, 2025
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Job Description:
An exciting opportunity to join the Development team of a
progressive YMCA association located in NJ is currently available
at GSCY. Job Description The Director of Annual Giving is
responsible for leading the Ys philanthropic efforts through the
strategic planning and execution of the annual giving program,
including donor recognition, volunteer and staff education, and
major gift development. This individual will work in an energetic,
collaborative environment as part of the Philanthropy team,
reporting to the Chief Philanthropy Officer. The Director will work
closely with volunteers and staff across seven centers, fostering a
culture of philanthropy and belonging, and cultivating a sense of
community among Y members, donors, prospects, and staff. A
commitment to advancing the Ys mission, values, and strategic goals
is expected, as well as ensuring continued philanthropic growth to
meet the needs of GSCY. This role centers equity in fundraising,
ensuring that all engagement strategies are inclusive, accessible
and representative of the diverse communities the Y serves. The
Director also plays a key role in the cultivation, solicitation,
and stewardship of major donors, working directly with prospects
capable of making leadership-level gifts to support the YMCAs
mission. Because of the wide scope of responsibilities, this
position calls for a person of professional maturity, sound
judgment and inclusive leadership qualities. Qualifications
Bachelors degree or equivalent education/experience. 3–5 years of
successful experience in development, including annual giving and
major gifts. Experience working with and coaching volunteers.
Strong knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor engagement.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the
ability to communicate respectfully and inclusively with diverse
stakeholders. Proven success in project/event management.
Demonstrated experience cultivating and soliciting major gifts,
including face-to-face donor engagement. Ability to collect data,
analyze trends, and solve problems. Proficiency in spreadsheets and
business software systems. CFRE credential preferred or commitment
to ongoing fundraising professional development. Commitment to the
Y’s values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, and an
understanding of equity principles in nonprofit development.
Essential Functions Lead planning and coaching for branch staff and
volunteer leadership to achieve annual fundraising goals through
tailored strategies for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting
charitable gifts. Implement and support annual giving strategies
that increase donor retention, acquisition, and overall campaign
success, including volunteer training and engagement. Serve as the
liaison between the Association Office and Executive Directors to
ensure alignment of fundraising strategies with each branchs
community-informed priorities. Plan and manage the annual campaign
kick-off, donor celebration, and recognition events. Facilitate
regular progress check-ins with branch leadership and volunteers;
adjust strategies as needed to ensure campaign goals are met.
Accompany staff and volunteers on donor solicitations as
appropriate. Manage a personal portfolio of mid-level and major
gift donors ($1,000), including individuals, families, and family
foundations with an emphasis on securing leadership-level gifts.
Collaborate with the Chief Philanthropy Officer and branch
leadership to develop individualized strategies for top prospects
and donors with the capacity to make significant contributions.
Develop and implement donor cultivation and recognition programs
across the association. Identify and address internal and external
factors affecting philanthropy effectiveness. Assist in planning
and coordination of association-wide special events and projects;
support recruitment of committee members and event volunteers.
Serve as an exempt staff member performing additional duties as
assigned to support the Philanthropy Department. Contribute to
developing messaging and materials that reflect inclusive language
and the Y’s commitment to equity in philanthropy. Cause-Driven
Leadership Competencies Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Ys
values in the organization and community. Communicates the benefits
and impact of the Ys work, develops volunteers, and secures
philanthropic support. Champions inclusive philanthropy and embeds
equity in fundraising strategy and donor engagement. Collaboration:
Develops inclusive strategies to ensure staff and volunteers
reflect the community. Builds and nurtures strategic relationships
and communicates effectively to garner support. Quality Results:
Strives to meet or exceed goals, ensuring high-value experiences
for donors. Operational Effectiveness: Uses data and community
input to inform decisions, ensures plan execution, and drives
continuous improvement. Benefits of working full-time at GSCY
include: FREE family membership to Greater Somerset County YMCA,
including full access to all of our branch facilities including
Bridgewater YMCA, Hillsborough YMCA, Princeton YMCA, Somerset Hills
YMCA and Somerville YMCA. FREE nationwide membership with access to
over 2,500 YMCA locations across the country Discounted program
fees Paid sick leave and short-term disability insurance Employee
Assistance Program (EAP) Generous 12% retirement contribution to
the YMCA Retirement Fund after eligibility period (no employee
contribution required) Medical and dental insurance with
prescription coverage Vision insurance Flexible Spending Account
for medical and/or dependent care 100% contribution towards life
insurance and long-term disability Optional additional life
insurance and dependent life insurance available at low rates
403(b) Smart Savings Plan Generous paid time off policy 7 paid
holidays Greater Somerset County YMCA is a drug free work
environment. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified
applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard
to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or
disabled status, or genetic information who share our values of
Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
Keywords: YMCA, Sayreville , Director of Annual Giving, Administration, Clerical , Basking Ridge, New Jersey