Director of Development and Community Engagement

Job Title: Director of Development and Community Engagement
Organization: Friedman Jewish Community Center (Friedman JCC)
Location: Kingston, PA
Reports to: Director of Operations
Position Type: Full-time 

Position Summary:
The Friedman JCC seeks a motivated, strategic, and relationship-driven Director of Development and Community Engagement to lead our fundraising initiatives, cultivate donor relationships, create dynamic programming, and enhance community involvement. This role is vital in securing financial support and promoting the organization’s mission through targeted development efforts, donor stewardship, and community outreach and programming. The ideal candidate is a hardworking team player who isn't afraid to roll up their sleeves, take initiative, and use their creativity to engage the Jewish and general community.

Key Responsibilities

Development & Fundraising: 

• Lead the planning, implementation, and growth of annual fundraising campaigns, special events, and grant applications to meet organizational financial goals. 
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with current and prospective donors, sponsors, foundations, and community partners. 
• Develop targeted giving campaigns and membership initiatives to increase sustained giving and donor retention. 
• Write compelling grant proposals and manage reporting requirements to support organizational funding needs. 
• Collaborate with the staff and Board to develop fundraising strategies, set targets, and expand the organization’s financial base.

Jewish Programming & Community Engagement: 

• Develop and oversee Jewish and general programming that enriches community members’ understanding and appreciation of Jewish culture, holidays, and traditions. 
• Plan and coordinate educational and cultural activities such as holiday celebrations, lectures, workshops, and intergenerational programs that promote Jewish learning and identity. 
• Foster relationships with local synagogues, Jewish educators, artists, and organizations to introduce new programming and enhance existing initiatives. 
• Ensure programming is inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to diverse community members. 
• Promote participation in Jewish lifecycle events, holidays, and community observances, encouraging engagement and connection.

Community Outreach & Relationship Building: 

• Build and maintain meaningful relationships with community members, local businesses, and organizations to foster a culture of support and participation. 
• Plan and oversee donor recognition events and stewardship activities to strengthen donor loyalty. 
• Promote awareness of the JCC's mission and programs to enhance community investment and involvement.

Marketing & Communication: 

• Develop clear messaging around fundraising goals and opportunities. 
• Support marketing efforts to communicate impact stories, campaign progress, and organizational needs via newsletters, website, social media, and community events.

Qualifications: 

• Proven experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or donor relations. 
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build genuine relationships with diverse stakeholders. 
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies, grant writing, and donor management systems. 
• Experience with Jewish programming, cultural activities, or community education is desirable. 
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. 
• Passion for Jewish community and culture, with an understanding of organizational priorities in this field. 
• Proficiency in social media platforms, website design, email marketing tools (e.g., Constant Contact), and basic graphic design tools (e.g., Canva) is a plus. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with flexibility to attend evening and weekend events as needed.

What We Offer: 

• A supportive, mission-driven environment 
• Opportunities to lead impactful fundraising and Jewish programming initiatives 
• Professional development opportunities 
• Competitive salary and benefits 
• The chance to make a lasting difference in the Jewish and greater Wyoming Valley community

To Apply:

If you’re passionate about this work but don’t meet every qualification, we still encourage you to apply.

Check out our beautiful JCC at www.friedmanjcc.org

Please submit your résumé and a brief cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience to [email protected].