Director of Development and Communications

About FCSN:

For children with disabilities, the pathway to achieving their full potential can often be challenging due to barriers in support, resources, and understanding. That’s where the Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN) steps in. FCSN’s equity-driven family engagement efforts promote access and opportunity for children with disabilities and others facing systemic obstacles to success.

Founded over 50 years ago, FCSN champions families’ vital role in their children’s education, healthcare, and overall well being, and empowers families to not only navigate key systems for their own child but also use their voice to advocate for systemic change. Our aspiration is to build an inclusive world where every child and young adult experiences belonging and can participate equitably in life’s opportunities. Our mission is to empower families, engage diverse communities and eliminate barriers to improve life outcomes for all children and young adults, especially those with disabilities.

By offering direct support, educational resources, and advocacy, we ensure that every youth and child, regardless of their challenges, is given the opportunity to succeed.

Commitment to Diversity:

FCSN is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in all the families we serve. We understand that each child, family, and individual is unique, and every family deserves personalized support. We embrace the richness of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, which strengthens our mission to ensure equitable access to resources for children with disabilities.

We believe that diversity is key to breaking down barriers and promoting inclusive practices. FCSN advocates for systemic change to address the challenges faced by underrepresented communities. As we work to close gaps in services and opportunities, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to join us in this important work. Our team’s strength lies in reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve.

The Opportunity:

As the Director of Development and Communications, you will lead fundraising, donor engagement, marketing, and public relations efforts to expand awareness and support for the Federation for Children with Special Needs. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and program leaders, you will oversee a multi-disciplinary team to strengthen the Federation’s brand, cultivate donor relationships, and drive strategic growth.

Responsibilities:

Fundraising & Donor Engagement

• Develop and implement a comprehensive development and communications strategy aligned with organizational goals.
• Lead and execute fundraising campaigns, including individual, corporate, and foundation giving.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations to ensure sustained financial support.
• Oversee grant coordination and reporting, collaborating with program leaders to identify funding opportunities and ensure compliance.
• Represent the Federation at public events, donor meetings, and partnership initiatives to strengthen community connections.

Department Management & Team Leadership

• Provide strategic leadership to the Development & Communications Team, aligning goals with FCSN’s mission and organizational priorities.
• Supervise and support program staff through coaching, performance feedback, and professional development, while fostering a team culture grounded in equity and cultural responsiveness.
• Monitor progress toward program goals and deliverables, adjusting work plans and providing guidance to ensure high-quality execution.
• Lead departmental planning and promote collaboration across teams.

Communications & Public Engagement

• Manage branding, messaging, and digital/print communications to enhance visibility and engagement.
• Position the Federation as a leader in family engagement and disability advocacy through strategic outreach.
• Oversee the development of marketing materials, newsletters, and social media content, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity.

Qualifications:

At FCSN, we value the many different paths individuals take toward professional growth. We evaluate candidates based on their skills, qualifications, and demonstrated ability to achieve positive results for children and families. Our hiring process is merit-based and considers a wide range of relevant experiences that prepare candidates to succeed in this role. We are most interested in candidates who meet the majority of the following qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with 3-5 years of leadership experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, and communications, with a proven track record in donor cultivation.
• Expertise in fundraising campaigns, grant writing, and donor relations.
• Strong ability to produce compelling and accessible communications, ensuring inclusivity in messaging.
• Demonstrated experience in staff management, mentoring, and volunteer engagement.
• Commitment to equity-centered policies and inclusive practices.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and strategic planning skills.
• Proficiency in fundraising software, CRM platforms, and digital marketing tools.
• Passion for the Federation’s mission; bilingual skills a plus.

Candidates with personal or professional experience in disability inclusion—such as individuals with disabilities, caregivers, or those with disabled family members—are encouraged to apply, as we value perspectives that enhance our commitment to accessibility and equity.

This full-time position is benefits-eligible for the Federation’s comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, and employer-sponsored group term life and AD&D insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability.

Proficient in English and another language, if possible.