Development Director

About the Role

As Development Director, you will work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, Marketing and Finance teams to design and implement values-aligned fundraising strategies. This service leadership role will play a key part in building relationships, expanding our donor base, and ensuring the financial sustainability of our mission to cultivate inner happiness, intercultural unity, and ecological regeneration. This role is ideal for someone who combines fundraising experience with a deep understanding of Dharma principles.

Responsibilities

Fundraising Leadership

• Develop and oversee a comprehensive fundraising plan, including major gifts, foundation grants, recurring donor programs, and campaign-based giving.
• Cultivate, steward, and solicit gifts from major donors, sangha members, and aligned philanthropic partners.
• Identify new funding opportunities and partnerships that align with LDF's mission and principles.
• Collaborate with Marketing & Communications to create inspiring donor materials, campaign messaging, and impact reports.
• Support and help host donor engagement events, in-person and online.

Donor Relations & Stewardship

• Build and maintain warm, respectful relationships with donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure timely acknowledgment of all gifts and communicate the merit and impact of donor contributions.
• Serve as an ambassador for LDF's mission, sharing the connection between Dana and the flourishing of Dharma in the world.
• Partner with the Executive Director, Board, and volunteer teams to integrate fundraising into all aspects of organizational planning.
• Support the development of a Donor Council or other donor engagement programs.
• Provide regular progress updates and strategic recommendations to the Board.

Commitment

• Volunteer position; approximately 5 hours per week, with flexibility for special projects or campaigns.
• Ability to attend occasional donor meetings or events (virtual or in-person).

Desired Skills

• Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, donor cultivation, and campaign strategy.
• Strong understanding of Dharma principles, particularly dana and merit, and ability to convey these in a contemporary, accessible way.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a values-driven, spiritually rooted organization.
• English and Spanish fluency is highly desirable.