Grants Specialist

Position Overview:

The Madison Square Boys & Girls Club Foundation seeks a motivated and detail-oriented Grants Specialist to support our growing development team and engagement goals. This position strengthens Madison’s capacity to serve thousands of young people across New York City. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and motivated to contribute to a mission-driven team.

The Grants Specialist is responsible for writing grant proposals to foundation and other grant-making entities seeking support for Madison’s programs. Reporting to the Senior Director of Institutional Giving, they research and identify new funding prospects; prepare and submit grant proposals and reports to funders; help to establish and build relationships with foundations and government funders, cultivate new sources of funding; and maintain a calendar of submissions and other deadlines. This role works closely with the Finance team to manage and report on grants.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and identify corporate, foundation, and government prospects for various programs and initiatives in need of support
• Collaborate with the Senior Director of Institutional Giving and Foundation team to support overall grant management for the organization, and take ownership of all grant applications, reports, and stewardship
• Develop and write clear and compelling letters of inquiry and grant proposals and reports to foundations, government agencies, and other grant-making entities
• Conduct research on prospective funders and synthesize findings into concise profiles to support pipeline growth
• Maintain accurate records in Raiser’s Edge (our CRM-system), ensuring timely entry of deadlines, submissions, and funder communications
• Maintain institutional donor and prospect histories and files
• Maintain pipeline of ongoing institutional giving activity
• Maintain centralized and current file of key organization data
• Support stewardship by preparing email updates, one-pagers, and personalized acknowledgement materials for funders
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail, ensuring grant documents meet funder requirements and align with Madison Square Boys & Girls Club’s messaging

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong writing and editing ability excellent written and verbal communication skills with superior attention to detail
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Experience in fast-paced, mission-focused nonprofit environments
• Proficiency with donor databases and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively and prioritize multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Flexibility to attend evening events and perform physical tasks as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Raiser's Edge or similar fundraising databases
• Advanced Excel skills
• Grant writing experience
• Interest in professional development and growth into advanced fundraising roles

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not supervise any employees.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full time position and hours of work and days are Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.

Requirements/Other

• Bachelor’s degree required; experience in corporate philanthropic and non-profit sectors a strong plus
• Candidates must complete criminal clearance (fingerprinting), submit official transcripts, and pass TB screening

Why Madison Square Boys & Girls Club?

For 138 years, Madison Square Boys & Girls Club has been a cornerstone of opportunity for New York City youth. Each year, we serve thousands of young people from historically under-resourced communities -- providing safe, supportive Clubhouses and life-changing programs in academic success, leadership, career readiness, and healthy lifestyles.

By joining our team, you will:

• Make a Difference: Contribute directly to an organization that empowers youth to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
• Be Part of a Legacy: Madison is one of the nation’s longest-standing Boys & Girls Clubs, with a proud history of impact and innovation.
• Grow Professionally: Gain hands-on experience in fundraising, operations, and donor engagement while working alongside a passionate, collaborative and kind team.
• See Your Work in Action: From working closely with supporters to spending time at our Clubhouses, you will see the tangible results of your efforts in the lives of Madison’s members.

We offer a competitive and comprehensive compensation package:

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Life and disability insurance
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick days, personal days)
• Paid holidays
• Hybrid work environment

Excellent communication in English is required, with additional languages considered a plus.