Volunteer Event Chair: Plus One Spring Fundraising Gala

About Plus One Foundation

Plus One Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Seattle, Washington, dedicated to serving children and adults living with neurological disorders. Neurological disorders are conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system—such as traumatic brain injuries, stroke, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, and dementia—which often disrupt daily functioning, mobility, and overall quality of life.

To support individuals and families navigating these challenges, Plus One provides direct funding grants, adaptive programming, and community educational resources. As we expand our impact, we are looking for an energetic, organized leader to spearhead our flagship spring fundraising event.

Role Overview

As the Spring Gala Chair, you will serve as the volunteer lead responsible for bringing Plus One Foundation’s signature spring fundraiser to life. Working closely with our Founder, Development team, and Board of Directors, you will guide the event’s creative vision, oversee planning timelines, and rally local support to maximize funds raised for our upcoming grant cycles.

This is a high-impact, hands-on leadership opportunity ideal for someone with event planning, fundraising, hospitality, or project management experience who loves rolling up their sleeves, connecting people, and creating memorable community experiences. Because local vendor relationships and on-site execution are central to this role, candidates must be based in the Seattle area.

Key Responsibilities

• Event Vision & Project Management: Lead the overall planning and execution of the Spring Gala, working alongside Plus One staff and interns to set a realistic production timeline, manage milestones, and oversee day-of run-of-show logistics.
• Fundraising & Sponsorship Strategy: Partner with the Development team and Board to set revenue goals, identify potential corporate sponsors, secure in-kind auction/raffle donations, and drive ticket sales.
• Vendor & Venue Coordination: Assist in researching, selecting, and coordinating with Seattle-area venues, caterers, AV teams, and entertainment partners while keeping event expenses within budget.
• Committee Leadership: Chair the Gala Planning Committee—delegating tasks across board members, staff, and event volunteers, running regular check-in meetings, and keeping the team energized and accountable.
• Community Ambassador: Leverage your personal and professional Seattle networks to invite guests, recruit table captains, and build excitement around Plus One’s mission.

Ideal Qualifications

• Proven experience planning events, fundraisers, galas, or large-scale community gatherings (professional or volunteer experience welcome).
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to keep multiple moving pieces on track.
• Natural relationship-builder comfortable reaching out to local businesses, sponsors, and community partners.
• Collaborative, upbeat leadership style with a sense of humor and adaptability when navigating event-day details.
• Based in the greater Seattle area and able to attend local site visits and the event itself.

Time Commitment & Expectations

• Duration: Immediate start through event wrap-up in Spring 2027 (with potential to transition into an ongoing Board or Committee role if desired).
• Weekly Dedication: Approximately 5-8 hours per week, increasing slightly in the final 3–4 weeks leading up to the gala.
• Meetings: Lead bi-weekly (transitioning to weekly) Gala Committee check-ins and provide occasional progress updates at monthly Board meetings.
• Compensation: Unpaid volunteer leadership role.

How to Apply

If you love bringing people together for a meaningful cause, thrive on turning big ideas into well-run events, and want to make a direct impact for Seattle families living with neurological conditions, we’d love to connect!