Philanthropy Associate
REPORTS TO: Director of Philanthropy
CLASSIFICATION: Salaried Exempt
Position Purpose
The Northern New York Community Foundation is seeking an individual to join our team and be instrumental in our mission to enhance the quality of life in the North Country. As the Philanthropy Associate, this individual will be motivated, passionate, and responsible in our stewardship of Community Foundation programs with a specific focus on grant programs and initiatives. This individual must demonstrate the ability to build and sustain meaningful relationships, while also showing a positive spirit and essential attributes to accomplish the Foundation’s mission, values and overall work.
Position Summary
- Play a critical role in managing the Community Foundation’s grant programs and strategic initiatives and other philanthropic programming
- Provide essential support to core grant program functions, guidance to grant committees using the Community Foundation’s software suite and facilitate the thoughtful execution of other Foundation initiatives
- Ideal candidate will be a self-starter, detail-oriented, adept in learning and applying relevant technology, and possess strong organization and communication skills
Position Focus
- Accurate processing and stewardship of grants to nonprofit organizations
- Respectfully facilitate questions and requests related to the Foundation’s grant programs and work
- Accurate and careful execution of donor gifts to the Foundation for the community
- Lead the coordination of grantmaking committees and advisory boards
- Provide key support to the Foundation’s strategic programs and initiatives
Primary Responsibilities
Grant Program Management:
- Act as an administrator of the Community Foundation’s online grants management systems by creating online applications and follow up forms, reviewing submissions, and maintaining accurate records
- Facilitate the grant award process through integrated online systems, ensuring their accurate and timely disbursement
- Prepare and coordinate communications to grantees regarding award details, disbursement schedules, and reporting requirements
- Attend self-paced virtual and live in-person professional development sessions to master the Community Foundation landscape and software suite
- Assist in the preparation and distribution of materials for grantmaking committees and advisory boards
- Screen grant applications and grant reports for completeness prior to coordinating a review with outside evaluators, including scheduling meetings and compiling feedback using reporting tools
- Ensure compliance with all Community Foundation policies and procedures during the grant disbursement process
- Provide technical support and training for applicants, grantees, internal staff, and external committees regarding use of the online grants management system
- Provide guidance and substantive feedback to grant seekers regarding grant opportunities
- Conduct targeted outreach to promote Community Foundation grant programs
General Foundation Support:
- As the first impression for donors, nonprofits and stakeholders to the Community Foundation, the Philanthropy Associate is responsible for communicating in a courteous, efficient manner, providing a professional and positive experience
- Participate in outreach and engagement activities to promote the Community Foundation’s grant opportunities and other programs
- Accurately process and facilitate gifts and grants using Foundation software
- Generate timely and error-free gift, grant and tribute acknowledgements
- Update and maintain correct information in the Foundation’s database as necessary to ensure data integrity
- Work alongside donors and connect their interests with worthy programs, projects, and initiatives
- Leverage skills gained through essential functions to support Foundation programs (Youth Philanthropy Council, LEAD Council, Community Giving Challenge, etc.) and related work areas from time to time
Strategic Programs/Initiatives Support:
- Collaborate with Director of Philanthropy, key staff and community stakeholders to thoughtfully manage and grow Community Foundation programs and strategic initiatives
- Serve as an advisor to key Community Foundation programs: Youth Philanthropy Council, LEAD Council, Community Spirit Youth Giving Challenge
- Assist in scheduling and planning key events
Other Responsibilities:
- Perform other duties as assigned
- Responsibly maintain required documents according to Foundation policies
Necessary Attributes
- Superior customer service skills with all constituents
- Exceptional verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
- Technological capacity to learn and use Community Foundation tools
- Impeccable attention to detail, accuracy and information integrity
- Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work
- Positive, motivated, and team- and solutions-oriented
- Professional demeanor and appearance
- Passion for and commitment to the position and the Community Foundation’s work and mission
Work Experience and Education
- High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) required
- Associate’s degree or higher preferred
- Minimum of three years in a similar work environment
- Nonprofit experience a plus
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn all appropriate Foundation software programs
Typical Work Schedule/Location
Regularly works Monday through Friday at the Foundation’s headquarters in Watertown, New York, during normal business hours and requires willingness to work a flexible schedule when needed.
Requirements
Cover letter, résumé, and three professional references
Compensation
$40,000 — $45,000
How to apply
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Reply to: Max DelSignore, Assistant Director, at max@nnycf.org. You may also mail your application to Northern New York Community Foundation, 131 Washington St., Watertown, New York 13601. No phone calls, please.