Director of Corporations & Foundation Relations

WHO WE ARE:

West End House (WEH) is a vibrant community anchor and youth development organization rooted in Boston’s Allston neighborhood and serving young people citywide. Since 1906, we have empowered youth to succeed academically and in life—providing high-impact programs that foster learning, creativity, wellness, leadership, and economic mobility.

Our 46,000-square-foot facility offers a safe and dynamic space where young people build lasting relationships, explore their strengths, an d chart their own paths to success. Programming spans seven interconnected focus areas—from academics and mental health to food security and the arts—designed to help youth thrive physically, emotionally, socially, and academically.

With a trauma-informed approach, a deep commitment to equity, and strong community partnerships, West End House continues to evolve to meet the needs of Boston’s youth and families—ensuring every young person has the opportunity, support, and confidence to lead, create, and thrive.

We are committed to advancing racial equity through our work and throughout all aspects of our organization- our youth programs, our community and family engagement, and our board and leadership. Our employees reflect and build upon our values - opportunity for all, youth first, joy, equity, and community.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

The Director of Corporations and Foundation Relations is charged with and executing a strategy to secure external funding from corporate sources and philanthropic foundations in support of the strategic priorities of West End House. This leader plays a pivotal role in growing institutional support, managing key relationships, and aligning funding opportunities with the organization's mission and programs.

WEH seeks mission-aligned, equity-minded leader who is passionate about youth development and excited to make a meaningful impact. If you’re a dynamic and entrepreneurial fundraiser who thrives on building strong partnerships and believes in the power of community, this role is for you.

Reporting directly to the Chief Development Officer, will partner closely with the CDO and the Development team to design and implement a comprehensive campaign that will chart the course for the organization’s future growth. A successful candidate will be a dynamic, entrepreneurial fundraiser who is passionate about youth development.

Fundraising Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a portfolio of corporate, foundation, and other institutional donors contributing to an org-wide annual revenue goal of more than $5 million.
• Portfolio management includes: Proactive, regular contact with donor organizations, preparation of solicitation proposals and gift agreements, engagement and stewardship of donors.
• Develop fundraising proposals and reports; responsible for timely research and writing for the submission of grant proposals and subsequent required reporting.
• Proactively grow the Foundations & Corporations portfolio through prospect research, networking, etc.
• Manage corporate sponsorship solicitations for West End House’s annual event.
• Work closely with the Manager, Engagement & Impact to develop meaningful volunteer opportunities for corporate partners.

Impact, Database Management

• Partner closely with the finance and programs to ensure requests for restricted funding align with program priorities, and to ensure that all grant reporting requirements are met.
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date donor database (Raiser’s Edge), participate in budget and revenue projection activities.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

There are a multitude of ways to learn and grow professionally and we know that people gain skills through a variety of professional and educational experiences. We respect this when we review applications and take a broad look at the experience of each applicant. We want to get to know you and the unique strengths you will bring to the work. With this in consideration, we are most likely to be interested in your candidacy if you can demonstrate most of the qualifications and experiences listed below:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent professional experience.
• 3-5 years fundraising experience in corporate and/or foundation relations including successful track record in securing five- to six-figure grants and sponsorships.
• Proven experience writing compelling grant proposals, LOIs, and reports.
• Experience managing a pipeline of foundation and corporate donors, including prospect research, cultivation, and stewardship.
• Familiarity with CRM/fundraising databases (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge, etc.).
• Experience with sponsorships, cause marketing, or corporate employee engagement programs.
• Experience in organizations supporting youth development a plus.

WHAT WE OFFER:

The salary range for this role is $80,000-$93,000. Rates of pay within this range will be commensurate with experience and based on factors such as years of experience, educational qualifications, and proficiency in a second language. Salaries ranges are developed in alignment with West End House’s internal compensation policy and because internal equity is critical, offers are firm. The compensation philosophy outlines salary growth potential for all employees so that staff can know how to increase their salary through performance.

Our comprehensive benefits are designed to enhance all aspects of our employees’ lives: physical health, financial security, general well-being and professional development.

Salary & Retirement: We offer competitive salaries based on market value and candidate experience, including generous contributions to a 401(k) plan (no match required) to ensure our team is secure now and in the future.

Time off: The team enjoys 15 – 25 paid vacation days based on tenure with 16 holidays and eight wellness days giving them the opportunity to recharge their batteries throughout the year.

Insurance: We provide strong medical, dental, and vision plans along with a flexible spending account, for you and your family, in addition to life insurance, long term and short-term disability coverage.

Parental Leave: West End House offers generous parental leave for the birth or adoption/foster placement of a child.

Learning: We offer professional development funds for each team to use at their discretion and coordinate regular team gatherings to foster continuous learning and build community.

And More... Team members have access to our pool & fitness center for their personal use; receive daily, scratch made meals; and can elect pre-tax commuter and childcare benefits.