Donor Officer

Overview and History:

For over 50 years, The Ark has been the only organization providing free, comprehensive human services to Chicagoland’s large and diverse Jewish community. Our goal is to empower individuals on their path to self-reliance. Our powerful, empathetic team works closely with Jewish people facing financial, employment, medical and emotional challenges, helping our clients to achieve a stronger future.

Donor Officer:

The Ark is excited to offer a new opportunity with potential for growth and impact within our Development team. We are seeking an experienced Donor Officer to support the Ark’s $7.5 million annual fundraising program, an ongoing $22+ million capital campaign, and long-term program and endowment giving efforts. As a key member of a growing team, the Donor Officer’s primary responsibility will be to qualify, cultivate and solicit donors capable of making five- and six-figure gifts for annual, capital, and endowment purposes. This full-time, salaried position will report to the Director of Development.

Specific Responsibilities
● Strategically engage and cultivate a portfolio of 75-125 donors/prospects with the capacity to make annual gifts of $10,000+ and multi-year gifts of five- to six-figures
● Partner with Board and Volunteer Leadership to identify, cultivate, and solicit new leadership donors and expand membership in The Ark’s Leadership Circle
● Collaborate with colleagues and Ark leadership to develop impactful opportunities for meaningful gifts to support existing and emerging programs and organizational priorities
● Develop robust cultivation and stewardship opportunities for donors, including events, print and digital updates, and individualized donor stewardship materials
● Collaborate with Grants Manager, Development colleagues, and program and administrative staff to develop and write funding proposals and reports for individual donors

Work Requirements and Qualifications

Requirements
● Minimum of bachelor’s degree with at least 5-7 years professional fundraising experience, including 2+ years’ experience cultivating/soliciting leadership and major gifts
● Experience working with board members and high-level volunteers
● Familiarity with local Chicagoland Jewish and general philanthropic community strongly preferred

Qualifications
● Ability to strategically engage, cultivate and solicit current and prospective major gift donors
● Knowledge/experience with various gifts methods, including program-restricted gifts, endowment, planned and deferred gifts
● Active listener with exceptional written communication and interpersonal skills
● Strong project management, organizational skills, attention to detail and time management
● Demonstrated ability to problem-solve, exercise sound judgment, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
● Positive, collaborative style, with the ability to effectively engage colleagues, volunteers, and donors
● Familiar with Jewish customs and holidays

Required Documents

Cover letter, resume, and writing sample (1-2 pages)

Benefits
• Salary commensurate with experience
• Hours 9 AM-4 PM Monday-Thursday 9 AM-2 PM Friday
• Paid vacation, Federal and Jewish holidays
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits package
• Retirement plan

Equal opportunity employer dedicated to a safe, supportive, and inclusive workplace.

The Ark’s professional staff provide comprehensive case management and a broad suite of free services to those in need, including a medical, dental, and vision clinic; pharmacy; kosher food pantry; financial assistance; housing support; employment and financial counseling; mental health services, including a therapeutic day program for adults living with long-term mental health challenges; spiritual enrichment; and more. The Ark is headquartered in Chicago’s West Rogers Park neighborhood, with a satellite office in Northbrook serving suburban clients.