Development Manager: Fundraising & Partnerships

About GAP School

Green Adventure Project School (GAP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit outdoor, experiential learning community in Charlottesville, Virginia. Our mission is to provide hands-on learning and transformative experiences that foster resilience, curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to stewardship and sustainability.

As a growing school with a strong and engaged community, GAP School is ready to expand its impact. We are seeking a relationship-driven fundraiser to help build and strengthen our development efforts.

Position Overview

The Development Manager will play a key role in growing GAP School’s fundraising efforts by building relationships with donors, securing grant funding, and supporting a sustainable development strategy.

This is a high-impact, part-time role ideal for someone who enjoys both strategy and execution, and is excited to help grow a mission-driven organization.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Donor Development (40–45%)

• Develop and implement a fundraising strategy across individual donors, foundations, and community partners
• Build and manage a pipeline of prospective donors (identify, cultivate, solicit, steward)
• Partner with leadership and board members to expand donor networks and engagement

Grants & Institutional Funding (20–25%)

• Research and pursue grant opportunities aligned with GAP School’s mission
• Write and submit compelling grant proposals and reports
• Manage relationships with foundation partners

Campaigns, Events & Communications (20–25%)

• Support and strengthen fundraising campaigns and events
• Develop donor-facing materials including emails, proposals, and impact updates
• Collaborate with leadership to tell GAP’s story in a compelling and authentic way

Systems & Tracking (10%)

• Maintain donor records and track contributions, communications, and outcomes
• Use simple systems to support organization and inform strategy

What Success Looks Like (Year One)

• A clear and actionable fundraising plan is established
• A growing pipeline of engaged donors and prospects
• Increased donor engagement and retention
• New grant funding secured
• Improved systems for tracking and communication

Qualifications

• Experience in fundraising, development, nonprofit advancement, or related field
• Demonstrated success securing gifts from individuals and/or foundations
• Strong writing skills, particularly in grant writing and donor communications
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills
• Organized, self-motivated, and able to work independently

Preferred Experience

• Experience working in a small or growing nonprofit
• Background in education, outdoor programs, or youth development
• Familiarity with donor tracking systems (CRM or equivalent tools)

• Approximately 10–20 hours per week (flexible schedule)
• Opportunity for role growth as fundraising efforts expand