Volunteer Development Research Partner – Rock Creek Conservancy

Volunteer Development Research Partner – Rock Creek Conservancy

Commitment: Minimum 3 months, ~3 hours per week

Location: Remote / Virtual (with optional in-person engagement)

Reports to: Grants Manager

Interested in a career in nonprofits and philanthropy? Love parks and the environment?

Rock Creek Conservancy is seeking a detail-oriented Volunteer Development Research Partner to support our fundraising and development efforts. This volunteer will research peer organizations, their funding sources, trustees, and staff to help identify opportunities for partnerships, funding, and strategic engagement. The role includes mapping relationships among organizations and individuals to inform our outreach and development strategies.

This is a flexible, virtual role, ideal for someone with strong research skills who enjoys working independently while contributing directly to environmental conservation and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on peer organizations, including funding sources, trustees, and staff.
• Maintain and update a research tracking spreadsheet to document findings.
• Map organizational relationships and connections to inform development and outreach strategies.
• Provide weekly progress updates via a brief email.
• Attend a regular 15-minute check-in with the Grants Manager to discuss findings and questions.
• Participate in an initial orientation to review research tools (e.g., CauseIQ, Excel) and the project framework.

Qualifications / Skills

• Experience with research databases or willingness to learn new research tools.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with strong follow-through.
• Reliable and able to commit ~2-3 hours per week for at least 3 months.
• Comfortable working independently and communicating findings clearly.
• Interest in environmental conservation, nonprofit development, or community engagement is a plus.

Time Commitment

• Approximately 2-3 hours per week for at least 3 months.
• Includes a brief weekly virtual check-in and email updates.

Benefits

• Recognition of hands-on experience with nonprofit development and research.
• Opportunity to contribute directly to environmental conservation in the Rock Creek watershed.
• Networking with nonprofit and development professionals.
• Recognition as a valued volunteer in Rock Creek Conservancy communications.

Mission of Rock Creek Conservancy

Rock Creek Conservancy’s mission is to protect and restore Rock Creek Park and its surrounding watershed through community engagement, environmental stewardship, and science-based initiatives that ensure the park remains a healthy, accessible, and vibrant natural resource for all.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a letter of interest to Grants Manager, Amanda Glassco, at aglassco@rockcreekconservancy.org. Priority will be given to applications received by March 18th.