Advancement Director - Volunteer

Organization: Surmount New York

Reports To: Executive Director

Location: New York, NY (Remote / Hybrid Advancement)

Time Commitment: Volunteer position, approximately 5–10 hours per week

About Surmount New York

At Surmount New York, we envision a future where every person, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools and support needed to make positive choices, overcome challenges, and build a life of purpose and fulfillment. We connect New Yorkers with essential resources and programs across food, housing, education, health, and mentorship that empower individuals, foster resilience, and uplift communities.

Role Overview

The Advancement Director leads Surmount New York’s fundraising, donor relations, and brand visibility efforts to secure long-term financial sustainability and community support. Combining strategic oversight with hands-on execution, the Advancement Director shapes our fundraising campaigns, oversees donor tracking systems, and manages development volunteers. This role ensures Surmount’s growth initiatives are strategic, engaging, sustainable, and aligned with our organizational mission.

Key Responsibilities

1-Fundraising Strategy & Campaign Management

Revenue Generation: Collaborate with the Executive Director to design, execute, and evaluate Surmount’s annual fundraising plan, including individual giving campaigns and digital appeals.

Grant Research & Writing: Identify prospective foundation grants, corporate sponsors, and funding opportunities aligned with Surmount’s core programs.

Campaign Execution: Lead the planning and rollout of seasonal fundraising initiatives and special donor appreciation events.

2-Donor Relations & Stewardship

Stewardship Cultivation: Serve as a primary point of contact for donors, sponsors, and supporters, ensuring timely acknowledgment and meaningful engagement.

Database Management: Maintain accurate donor records, contribution tracking, and pipeline management in organizational databases.

Impact Reporting: Partner with program teams to translate impact metrics and success stories into compelling donor updates and newsletters.

3-Marketing & Public Visibility Support

Brand Alignment: Collaborate with leadership and communications volunteers to ensure all public messaging reflects Surmount’s brand and mission.

Public Representation: Represent Surmount New York at networking events, donor meetings, and community functions to expand our supporter base.

4-Team Oversight & Volunteer Coordination

Development Support: Direct and support advancement volunteers and interns focused on fundraising, communications, and donor outreach.

Cross-Team Collaboration: Provide monthly updates on fundraising metrics and growth initiatives at leadership meetings.

Experience & Qualifications

Fundraising Experience: Prior experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, or corporate philanthropy.

Relationship Building: Proven ability to build authentic relationships with donors, stakeholders, and community partners.

Written Communication: Exceptional storytelling, copywriting, and communication skills tailored for diverse audiences and funding pitches.

Tech Familiarity: Experience using CRM systems, donor management databases, or digital fundraising platforms.

Benefits

Meaningful Impact: Directly drive the financial sustainability required to expand essential resources and mentorship programs across New York.

Executive Leadership Experience: Gain hands-on development strategy and nonprofit management experience.

Professional Networking: Connect with philanthropists, community leaders, and organizations across the New York nonprofit sector.

Supportive Environment: Onboarding, training, and ongoing mentorship are provided to support your professional growth in the role.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their resume and a brief statement of interest detailing their background and passion for community empowerment to Surmount New York.