Director of Individual Giving

About the role

The Director of Individual Giving will play a pivotal role in advancing Cornerstones' mission by developing and leading strategies to grow and sustain the individual giving program. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, this individual will engage with donors, create a pipeline for major and legacy gifts, and work collaboratively across the organization to expand Cornerstones’ base of support.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive individual giving strategy that aligns with organizational goals, ensuring a diversified and sustainable funding base.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of individual donors, including high-net-worth individuals, annual donors, and prospects.
• Lead the planning and execution of annual giving campaigns, including direct mail, digital appeals, and special giving days.
• Collaborate with leadership to identify and qualify major gift prospects and develop tailored engagement plans.
• Oversee Cornerstones’ planned giving program to engage donors in creating long-term impact.
• Work closely with the communications and marketing team to create compelling donor materials and impact reports.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of interactions with donors in the donor database and analyze data to measure and improve fundraising efforts.
• Manage and mentor development staff and volunteers as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., nonprofit management, communications, business) required; advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of fundraising experience, with a proven track record in individual giving, major gifts, or annual campaigns.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage donors.
• Proficiency in donor databases (e.g., Raiser’s Edge a plus) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with planned giving concepts and techniques.
• Passion for Cornerstones' mission and a deep commitment to making a difference in the community.

Work Environment

This position is performed in a traditional office environment as well as in Cornerstones’ community-based programs. This position has lifting and physical requirements which include boxes and materials up to 30 pounds and moving items related to drives, donations and fundraising events.