CLIENT SUMMARY:

Since 1992, Grace House Ministries has provided stable, Christian homes for Alabama girls in foster care—empowering them to become Heritage Builders, Change Makers, and Cycle Breakers. Rooted in Faith Formation and Education, Grace House has served over 800 young women through trauma-informed, Christ-centered care. Following a successful $5M capital campaign in 2024, two new Transitional Program Homes were launched, with the upcoming Lois G. Coleman Mission Center expanding community and operational impact in 2026.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Director of Development will partner closely with the Executive Director to design, implement, and sustain a comprehensive fundraising and marketing strategy that advances the mission of Grace House. Overseeing a team of three—Development Associate, Marketing & Communications Manager, and Ministry & Volunteer Coordinator—this leader will manage all aspects of development, including major gifts, grants, donor relations, marketing, and community engagement.

The ideal candidate will blend strategic planning and execution with relational leadership, bringing both structure and warmth to a mission-driven organization. They will thrive in an environment where faith, excellence, and compassion intersect.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute a strategic fundraising plan to meet the annual operating goal ($1.2M in 2025).
• Lead all major gifts and donor relations efforts—identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual, corporate, and foundation partners.
• Oversee grant writing and management to achieve foundation fundraising goals ($200k annually), including proposal development and reporting.
• Direct fundraising events and campaigns that engage donors and expand community visibility.
• Supervise and coach the Development Associate, Marketing & Communications Manager, and Ministry & Volunteer Coordinator—fostering growth, accountability, and mission alignment.
• Guide marketing and communications strategy to ensure clear, consistent, and inspiring messaging across platforms.
• Lead volunteer and Junior Board engagement efforts that build community partnerships and expand in-kind revenue opportunities.
• Collaborate strategically with the Executive Director to support capital campaigns and long-term sustainability planning.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE NEEDED:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred (Communications, Public Relations, or related field).
• Minimum 5 years of progressive fundraising experience—major gifts, grants, and events.
• Supervisory experience leading teams and volunteers.
• Technologically savvy with donor database management experience.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), highly desired.
• Actively involved in local church.