Chair Library Benefit

The Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library supports all 50 branches of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. The Friends advocates and fundraises for the Miami-Dade Public Library System while championing the use of its valuable services and programs. We envision a Miami-Dade where the library is the go-to destination for resources and services that connect and strengthen our community.

We are seeking 2-3 experienced Volunteer Gala Chairs to lead planning and execution of our annual fundraiser. The fundraiser will be on November 7, 2026 and is called "Late at the Library: Growing Library Joy". This will be our third year hosting this gala - last year we raised $220k. This is a high-impact volunteer leadership role best suited for someone who has chaired or co-chaired a nonprofit gala or major fundraising event.

You will lead a committee of experienced volunteers and work closely with Friends leadership and vendors/consultants to deliver a successful event that strengthens support for Miami-Dade Public Library.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Project Management

• Chair the Gala Committee and run planning meetings (agenda, assignments, accountability)
• Maintain the gala timeline and ensure milestones are met
• Coordinate with Friends leadership and event partners

Fundraising & Sponsorship

• Help set fundraising goals with Friends leadership
• Lead sponsorship strategy and support solicitation efforts (including leveraging your network)
• Work with committee members to secure sponsors and underwriters.

Event Design & Guest Experience

• Guide key event decisions: theme/format, program flow, honorees and guest experience
• Collaborate on run-of-show, program content, and on-site execution
• Support promotion/communications plan - the Friends has a communications committee who will execute the marketing/communications plan.

Day-of Event Leadership

• Help manage event-day logistics and volunteer roles
• Serve as a visible host/leader during the event

What We’re Looking For

• Prior experience chairing or co-chairing a nonprofit gala, luncheon, or major fundraising event (required)
• Strong organizational skills and comfort managing timelines, details, and multiple stakeholders
• Confident communicator who can lead meetings and follow up for results
• Fundraising comfort: willingness to ask for sponsorships/tables or support others doing so
• Collaborative, calm under pressure, and solutions-oriented
• Passion for libraries, literacy, education, or community impact

Helpful (Not Required)

• Existing relationships with corporate sponsors, community leaders, or philanthropy networks in Miami-Dade
• Experience working with event planners, venues, auctions/raffles, or underwriting programs

Support You’ll Have

• Support from Friends leadership, gala committee members and volunteers
• This will be our third gala and so we have a playbook to call from and an experienced team.
• Access to past event materials (sponsor deck, timelines, vendor contacts, etc.)

Why This Matters

Your leadership will directly support public library programs and services that benefit Miami-Dade residents—students, families, seniors, job seekers, and lifelong learners.