Full job description

Position Summary

The Development Associate plays a key role in supporting the fundraising and donor engagement efforts of Food for Greater Elgin. As part of a small development team, this position is responsible for managing donor data, assisting with event planning, and ensuring effective communication with donors and stakeholders. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, tech-savvy, and passionate about advancing the mission of a nonprofit organization.

Key Responsibilities

Database Management

• Maintain and update donor records in the CRM system (Bloomerang)
• Process donations and generate acknowledgment letters and receipts
• Run reports and analyze donor data to support fundraising strategies
• Ensure data integrity and confidentiality

Event Project Management & Support

• Plan and execute fundraising events, donor receptions, and community outreach activities
• Coordinate logistics including venue, invitations, and volunteer support
• Track RSVPs and manage event-related communications
• Support post-event follow-up and donor stewardship

Donor Communication & Stewardship

• Assist with donor communications including appeals and thank-you notes
• Help maintain donor engagement through personalized outreach and updates
• Curate and schedule content for social media platforms
• Work closely with communication/marketing team on campaigns

Administrative & Team Support

• Provide general administrative support to the development team
• Help prepare materials for board meetings and donor presentations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in nonprofit management, communications, or related field
• A proactive self-starter who can adapt to changing needs and manage several projects concurrently while maintaining a high level of quality
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with donor databases (specifically Bloomerang) and Microsoft Office Suite
• 1–2 years of experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit administration preferred
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Team player who can interact and communicate clearly
• Passion for the mission of Food for Greater Elgin
• Bilingual (Spanish) is a strong plus

Work Environment

• Small, collaborative team environment
• Flexible work arrangements may be available
• Occasional evening or weekend work required for events

Additional Skills, Abilities and Knowledge

• Commitment to FFGE's mission, values and community focus.
• Enjoys working for a non-profit social services organization.
• Team player who is able to interact and communicate clearly.
• Bilingual is a strong plus.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person