Development Manager

About Mental Wellness Center

Mental Wellness Center (MWC) is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening mental wellness throughout Santa Barbara County. Guided by our values of hope, inclusivity, collaboration, and connection to care, we provide youth programming, early intervention services, safe and affordable housing, education, and resources for individuals and families impacted by mental health challenges.

Position Summary

The Development Manager coordinates and executes Mental Wellness Center’s annual fundraising strategy while overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Development Department. This position supports the organization’s philanthropic goals through donor stewardship, fundraising campaigns, community partnerships, special events, grant administration support, and donor database management.

Core Responsibilities

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, community partners, and volunteers.
• Plan and execute fundraising events, including event logistics, registration, sponsorship fulfillment, and donor engagement.
• Prepare donor acknowledgments, stewardship communications, impact reports, and fundraising materials.
• Support grant activities by coordinating application materials, reporting requirements, and deadlines.
• Maintain accurate donor records, process charitable contributions, and oversee the donor database.
• Generate fundraising reports and track campaign performance to support strategic planning and decision-making.
• Collaborate with internal teams to gather program information, impact stories, and fundraising content.
• Represent Mental Wellness Center at community events, meetings, and networking opportunities.
• Support additional Development Department projects and initiatives that advance the organization’s mission.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications, nonprofit management, marketing, public administration, or a related field preferred.
• At least three years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, philanthropy, or a related field.
• Experience coordinating fundraising campaigns, donor stewardship, special events, grant administration, and fundraising reporting.
• Experience using donor database systems, preferably DonorPerfect.
• Strong project management, organization, communication, relationship-building, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to prepare professional donor communications, presentations, and meaningful fundraising reports.
• Ability to build effective relationships with donors, volunteers, board members, community partners, and colleagues.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain the confidentiality of donor and organizational information.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with Canva or similar design software.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record consistent with MWC’s policies and insurance requirements when driving is required.