Director of Community Relationships

Position Summary

The Director of Community Relationships is a leadership role focused on building and nurturing reciprocal relationships with donors, community members, and partners to resource Tiwahe’s movement for Indigenous leadership, lifeways, and cultural identity. This position is central to Tiwahe’s efforts to grow its individual donor base and expand the impact of Indigenous philanthropy.

Serving as a bridge between Tiwahe Foundation and the broader community—inclusive of both Native and non-Native donors and supporters—the Director will research, plan, and implement fundraising strategies that center individual donors. This role also leads Tiwahe’s storytelling and narrative change work at public events and in critical community conversations, ensuring that all engagement efforts advance Tiwahe’s mission and values.

Organizational Culture and Values

Tiwahe Foundation operates under Native principles of reciprocity and mutual care, embracing a non-hierarchical organizational structure where power and responsibilities are shared. We value collaboration, respect, and the contributions of all team members. Candidates should be comfortable in an environment that prioritizes community, mutual support, and collective achievement.

Key Responsibilities

Individual Giving and Fundraising (40%)

• Develop and Implement Fundraising Strategies:
• Create and lead strategic initiatives to grow Tiwahe’s individual donor base, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major gift prospects and other donors.
• Collaborate with staff and accounting partners to set and meet annual fundraising targets.
• Donor Relationship Management:
• Build and maintain personalized relationships with individual donors, families, community groups, and businesses.
• Organize donor meetings, site visits, and fundraising events such as Tiwahe’s bi-annual Circle of Generosity gathering.

Community Engagement and Representation (30%)

• Community Relationship Building:
• Serve as an ambassador for Tiwahe Foundation, fostering reciprocal connections with Native and non-Native communities and organizations.
• Engage with community partners to advocate for Tiwahe’s mission and support Indigenous-led systems change.
• Public Speaking and Presentations:
• Represent Tiwahe through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and meetings.
• Create and deliver compelling public presentations that communicate Tiwahe’s impact and goals.

Communications (20%)

• Strategic Messaging:
• Co-develop communication strategies to enhance visibility and brand alignment with Tiwahe’s mission.
• Write, edit, and publish materials such as appeal letters, newsletters, and social media posts that reflect Tiwahe’s cultural knowledge, values, and goals.
• Content Creation:
• Create multimedia materials and publications to support donor engagement and outreach efforts.

Relational Learning and Analysis (5%)

• Build relationships with organizations sharing similar missions to exchange knowledge on fundraising practices.
• Analyze insights from these relationships to enhance Tiwahe’s donor engagement strategies.

Project Management and Administration (5%)

• Maintain accurate donor records and financial forecasting systems.
• Prepare reports on fundraising progress and present findings to the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and key partners.

Qualifications

• Experience building and sustaining donor relationships and growing philanthropic support.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with diverse communities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including public speaking and storytelling.
• Proficiency with digital communication strategies and donor management tools.
• Lived or professional experience working with Native communities and understanding Indigenous cultures and issues.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $80,000 – $85,000 annually. Competitive and commensurate with experience.
• Benefits:
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Generous paid time off, including holidays and cultural leave.
• Flexible work environment and professional development opportunities.

Application Process

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed starting March 14, 2025. This position will remain open until filled.

To apply, please submit the following:

• A narrative statement sharing your journey and alignment with Tiwahe’s mission.
• Resume/CV.
• A writing sample (e.g., donor letter, newsletter article, or proposal).

Submit Applications To:

• Email: generosity@tiwahefoundation.org
• Subject Line: Director of Community Relationships Application: [Your Name]

Equal Opportunity Employment

Tiwahe Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We strongly encourage applications from Native individuals and those with experience working within Native communities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Saint Paul, MN 55101

Salary : $80,000 - $85,000