Event Planner Educational NGO Gala

Title: Event Planner for a gala for the DREAM Project (www.dominicandream.org)

Location: New York City, New York

Type: Contract

Expected date of event: October 2025

The DREAM Project is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides high-quality educational opportunities to children, youth, and families in the Dominican Republic. Our transformative education programs complement the national education system and empower at-risk children and youth to create a better future for themselves and their families. Through innovative approaches to literacy, early childhood education, youth leadership, music instruction, and community support, DREAM promotes critical thinking and independence to enrich lives and strengthen sustainable communities.

We are seeking a highly organized and motivated Event Planner to lead the planning and execution of a formal fundraising dinner honoring DREAM’s founder and the organization’s 30th anniversary. This person will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of event logistics, coordinating with vendors, securing sponsorships, and ensuring that the event aligns with the mission of the DREAM Project.

The successful candidate will bring creativity, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record of executing high-profile events.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Planning and Coordination

• Lead the planning and execution of a formal fundraising dinner, including venue selection, catering, entertainment, and decor.
• Manage event logistics, such as invitations, guest lists, seating arrangements, and audiovisual requirements.
• Coordinate with vendors (venue, caterers, decorators, etc.) and ensure quality service within budget.
• Ensure that the event supports and communicates the NGO’s mission and goals.

Sponsor Recruitment and Partnerships

• Develop a sponsorship package with sponsor benefits.
• Work with DREAM staff and Board to sell tables and tickets, as well as secure financial and in-kind sponsors for the event.
• Build and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, community partners, and individual donors.
• Work closely with the Fund Development team to meet or exceed sponsorship goals.
• Identify software for live auction and support identifying auction items.

Event Marketing and Promotion

• Collaborate with DREAM’s Marketing team to create marketing materials, event invitations, social media announcements, and advertising campaigns to promote the event on a coordinated timeline.
• Promote the event to target audiences, ensuring maximum attendance and engagement.

Budget Management

• Develop and manage the event budget, ensuring cost-effective solutions while delivering a high-quality experience and meeting our fundraising goal.
• Track and adjust expenses and revenue and provide regular reports to DREAM executive team and Board.

Event-day Responsibilities

• Oversee the event setup, including venue preparation, seating, and technical arrangements.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all event-day logistics, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees.
• Coordinate with staff, volunteers, and vendors to ensure the event runs smoothly from start to finish.
• Manage live auction.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in event planning, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Proven experience in securing sponsors, managing fundraising events, and raising at least USD$100,000.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in event management software and CRM systems. Neon One CRM system knowledge a plus.
• Knowledge of NYC event venues and vendor networks.
• Spanish speaker preferred but not required.

To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to catherine@dominicandream.org