What are the responsibilities and job description for the Development and Sustainability Officer position at Appalachia Service Project?
The Development and Sustainability Officer (DSO) position is part of ASP’s Advancement Department and is responsible for ensuring productive partnerships and long-term sustainability of the THRIVE (Transforming Homes and Rebuilding in Vulnerable Environments) program in targeted communities. This position reports to the Senior Vice President for Donor Engagement and will work closely with the THRIVE program staff and managers in the Ministries Department.
This is a full-time position based within reasonable distance from ASP THRIVE Program Hubs and/or key partners. Upon occasion, irregular hours and some travel may be required. ASP’s THRIVE program encompasses regionalized home repair, new home construction, and disaster recovery services. The program's goal is to enhance ASP's capacity, along with that of its regional community partners, to reduce the time between a disaster and significant residential rebuilding. This will be achieved by establishing three ASP THRIVE regional hubs, which will provide a consistent, long-term presence for home repair and replacement services, while also serving as central centers for sustained disaster response. ASP will support community partners in preparing for long-term response efforts proactively by providing training and practical support before, during and after a disaster event.
Job Responsibilities
Overall
The Development and Sustainability Officer for the THRIVE Program will be responsible for cultivating strategic partnerships and spearheading fund development initiatives to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the program. The goal is to ensure program capacity can be maintained after inaugural grant funding is exhausted. This role involves fostering relationships with key stakeholders, donors, and partners, developing and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies, and identifying and securing new funding opportunities. The Development and Sustainability Officer will work closely with the Regional Directors, other Advancement team members, and THRIVE team members to align efforts with the program’s mission and goals.
Partnership Cultivation:
- Identify and establish strategic partnerships with organizations, churches, businesses, and individuals that align with the THRIVE Program’s mission and objectives.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing partners ensuring regular communication and engagement.
- Build upon current partnerships for volunteers, funders, contractors, civic organizations and community support.
- Collaborate with partners to develop joint initiatives, projects, and funding opportunities that support the program’s sustainability.
- Represent the THRIVE Program at relevant meetings, conferences, and events to network and build relationships with potential partners and donors.
Fundraising:
- Develop and implement a strategic fundraising plan to support the THRIVE Program’s short-term and long-term goals.
- Identify, research, and pursue new funding sources (both private and public), including grants, corporate donations, charitable giving programs, event sponsorships, and other revenue streams.
- Work with grants team to prepare compelling grant proposals, sponsorship packages, and fundraising materials to effectively communicate the program’s impact and needs.
- Assist with coordination of fundraising events and campaigns, including virtual and in-person events.
- Maintain accurate records of fundraising activities, donor information, and funding progress using relevant software and databases.
Funding and Compliance
- Assist in ensuring the program is properly resourced to meet or exceed budgetary expectations.
- Ensure financial accounting and reporting for all partner contributions is accurately processed as needed for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general financial tracking.
- Provide regular reports on fund development and partnership activities, including progress towards goals and any challenges encountered.
Communication and Partner Relations:
- Distribute regular updates, newsletters, and reports to donors, partners, and other stakeholders to keep them informed about the program’s progress and impact.
- Work with the marketing and communications team to develop promotional materials and campaigns that highlight the program’s services, achievements, and needs.
Curriculum and Trainings
- Identify partners and community members that could contribute to and/or benefit from the THRIVE - Disaster Recovery Rapid Rebuild (DRRR) curriculum and training opportunities.
- Assist in tracking attendance, satisfaction and effectiveness of DRRR training and implementation among participants and partners. Assist in revising curriculum based on findings.
Administrative
- Ensure the maintenance of thorough, electronic, and hard-copy documentation for each partner, for ease of communication among multiple staff.
- Spearhead the creation and regular upkeep of position-specific procedure manuals.
- Seek applicable training opportunities to enhance skill and knowledge.
- Adhere to all organizational, programmatic, and other budget guidelines.
- Prepare for and participate in ongoing evaluation processes.
Other
- Adhere to organizational and departmental core values, expectations, guiding principles, mission, vision, and budget guidelines.
- Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Qualifications
Required:
- Willingness to work in a Christian environment.
- Responsible work habits.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in fundraising, partnership development, or a related role, preferably within the nonprofit sector.
- Ability to work with, train, advise and assist a variety of volunteers and staff.
- Proven track record of successful fundraising and partnership cultivation.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive proposals and presentations.
- Highly motivated, self-starter, creative, problem-solver, and dedicated.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Proficiency in fundraising software, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Passion for sustainability and a commitment to the mission of the THRIVE Program.
- Valid driver’s license and driving record that is acceptable to ASP’s insurer.
- Occasional regional travel is expected, some overnights may be necessary.
- Satisfactory results on a thorough background check.
Desired:
- Bachelor’s Degree.
- Experience in community building, community organizing and/or program start-ups.
- Knowledge of current trends and best practices in nonprofit fundraising and partnership development.
- Experience in coordinated local disaster response, preparedness, and long-term recovery.
- Experience with ASP or a similar service-focused program.
Compensation
- Salary based on education and experience.
- Medical and dental insurance are provided by ASP. Details of coverage to be provided prior to employment.
- Enrollment in ASP retirement plan per plan requirements. Details to be provided prior to employment.
- Phone and laptop provided for work use (if required for job performance)
- ASP vehicle available for frequent local and regional business travel
- Sick leave and personal leave.