Development Officer

About the Rock Creek Foundation: The Rock Creek Foundation is a 50 year old, Black led nonprofit that serves Maryland residents with intellectual disabilities and/or severe mental illness, primarily via group homes and day programs. We are also in the midst of transformational change, as we are currently in the process of updating many of our business systems, including establishment of a fundraising program. We are committed to fostering independence, dignity, and inclusion for those we serve, while empowering our community to build a foundation for sustainable growth and well-being. Our work is majority government funded (federal, state and county funds), with some money tied to specific projects.

Position Summary: After spending the last year working closely with a consultant to build a brand-new fundraising department, we are seeking a dynamic and motivated Development Officer to join our team to strengthen and expand our fundraising efforts. This individual will play a key role in growing our donor base, maintaining meaningful relationships with supporters, and securing funding through grant writing and major gift solicitations. This role is ideal for an experienced annual fund or individual giving specialist with strong writing skills looking to level up.

The Development Officer is responsible for designing and implementing strategies to expand and diversify the Rock Creek Foundation’s donor base and revenue streams. This individual will write compelling grant proposals, manage communication with donors and supporters, and cultivate relationships with individuals and institutions to secure philanthropic gifts. They will also manage/spearhead the existing fundraising plan, including updates to the case for support, running digital campaigns and planning/staffing events in conjunction with the Chief of Operations.

Reporting to the Chief of Operations, the Development Officer will work closely with the leadership team to meet fundraising goals that sustain and grow our programs. The Director of Operations has previous experience in fundraising and will provide coaching as needed. We have an existing Partnerships Manager for organizational support and an outgoing grant writer who will be available for a warm hand off of 12+ existing and upcoming grant applications.

Key Responsibilities:

Donor Cultivation and Stewardship:

• Develop and implement strategies to expand the Foundation’s donor base, with a focus on acquiring new individual and corporate donors.
• Execute existing plans for community events and plan additional fundraising events as needed.

Grant Writing and Management:

• Research and identify grant opportunities aligned with RCF’s mission and programs.
• Write, edit, and submit high-quality grant proposals and reports to foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Track grant applications and ensure compliance with reporting requirements.

Major Gifts:

• Develop and execute strategies to solicit major gifts (four figures and up) from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
• Work with leadership to identify and engage gift prospects.
• Prepare solicitation materials, proposals, and presentations for community engagement and gift asks.

Communications and Fundraising Campaigns:

• Create compelling content for donor communications, including newsletters, email campaigns, and impact reports.
• Manage donor database (Neon) and maintain accurate records of contributions and interactions.

Performance Metrics and Reporting:

• Establish clear fundraising goals and track progress against objectives.
• Prepare regular reports for leadership and the board of directors on fundraising activities and outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or grant writing.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with donors, board members, and other stakeholders.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Passion for the mission and values of the Rock Creek Foundation.

Salary: $75,000-85,000 commensurate with experience

Benefits: RCF offers a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, four weeks of paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

In Person: This role is based out of the Rock Creek Foundation’s headquarters in White Oak, Maryland at least three days per week. The opportunity to work from home more often can be explored after the 90 day probationary period concludes. Some evening and weekend availability will be expected for special events, but typically no more than four per quarter, with time in lieu offered in recognition of this commitment.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. All applicants must be prepared to submit to a background check and finger printing in order to comply with Rock Creek’s regulations as a healthcare provider.

The Rock Creek Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.