Development Officer

About the role

Includ(Ed) is an inclusive early childhood education center located in Pacific Beach, San Diego. We integrate high-quality preschool, early intervention therapies, and wraparound family supports to serve all children—regardless of disability status.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan to raise at least $450,000 through a combination of individual giving, grants, sponsorships, and campaigns.
• Lead donor prospecting, cultivation, and stewardship efforts with individual donors and business partners.
• Manage and execute multi-channel campaigns (e.g., annual appeals, Giving Tuesday, online and print campaigns).
• Track progress toward fundraising goals and report regularly to the Executive Director and Board of Directors.
• Research and identify funding opportunities aligned with Includ(Ed)’s mission.
• Write and submit grant proposals, LOIs, budgets, and follow-up reports.
• Maintain a clear and up-to-date grant calendar with deadlines, submission dates, and reporting timelines.
• Maintain a donor database (e.g., Little Green Light or equivalent), ensuring records are up to date and well-organized.
• Send timely acknowledgments, impact updates, and personalized stewardship messages.
• Develop segmented donor engagement strategies to increase retention and giving.
• Produce a regular digital newsletter for donors, families, and partners, highlighting stories, impact, and upcoming events.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and program staff to gather compelling content and ensure messaging reflects the organization’s voice and values.
• Collaborate with Executive Director and Social Media team to curate the website and social media presence.
• Plan and coordinate community-facing events such as open houses, family celebrations, donor cultivation events, and fundraising gatherings.
• Manage logistics, communications, and follow-up to ensure events reflect Includ(Ed)’s inclusive, welcoming culture.
• Represent Includ(Ed) at community events and build relationships with local partners and stakeholders.
• Analyze fundraising data, donor trends, and campaign outcomes to inform future strategy.
• Create monthly and quarterly development reports for the Executive Director and Board.
• Help inform organizational decision-making with a fundraising lens.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or advancement roles.
• Proven success in individual donor engagement and grant writing.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a passion for storytelling and impact.
• Self-starter with strong organizational and project management skills.
• Experience with donor CRM systems (e.g., Little Green Light, Salesforce).
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the mission of Includ(Ed).

Preferred Experience

• Working in early childhood education, disability justice, or family-centered organizations.
• Familiarity with the San Diego philanthropic landscape.