VP of Philanthropy

Job Description

The Vice President of Philanthropy reports to the CEO and provides strategic leadership for all philanthropic efforts of the YMCA of Catawba Valley. This position is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that advances the YMCA's mission, strategic priorities, and long-term sustainability.

The VP of Philanthropy leads major gifts, annual giving, endowment growth, planned giving, capital campaigns, foundation relations, corporate partnerships, and donor stewardship efforts. As a member of the senior leadership team, this position serves as a key ambassador for the YMCA, building meaningful relationships with donors, volunteers, board members, community leaders, and funding partners.

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Seven or more years of progressive fundraising and philanthropic leadership experience.
• Demonstrated success securing major gifts and leading fundraising initiatives.
• Experience working with volunteer boards and community leaders.
• Strong relationship‑building, communication, and strategic planning skills.

• Growth in annual philanthropic revenue
• Increased major gift and donor retention activity
• Growth of endowment and planned giving commitments
• Strong volunteer and board engagement in fundraising
• Enhanced community awareness and philanthropic support of the YMCA mission

• Develop and implement a comprehensive philanthropic strategy aligned with YMCA strategic priorities.
• Establish annual and long‑range fundraising goals.
• Provide leadership for all fundraising initiatives, campaigns, and donor engagement efforts.
• Serve as a member of the YMCA leadership team and contribute to organizational planning and strategy.

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects and donors.
• Develop and manage a major gifts portfolio.
• Build strong relationships with individual donors, corporations, foundations, and community leaders.
• Ensure exceptional donor stewardship and engagement practices.

• Lead efforts to grow the YMCA endowment.
• Develop and implement planned giving and Legacy Society strategies.

• Provide strategic leadership for annual campaigns, special campaigns, and future capital initiatives.
• Engage volunteers, board members, and community leaders in fundraising efforts.
• Ensure fundraising initiatives align with organizational priorities and community needs.

• Partner with the CEO and Board of Directors to strengthen philanthropic leadership.
• Support Development Committee activities and fundraising engagement.
• Recruit, develop, and support volunteer fundraising leaders.

• Collaborate with Marketing to develop donor communications, impact stories, campaign messaging, stewardship materials, and community awareness initiatives.
• Represent the YMCA at community events, civic organizations, and partnership meetings.
• Serve as a visible advocate for the YMCA mission and community impact.

• Provide leadership, coaching, and performance management for development staff.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.
• Ensure effective fundraising systems, processes, and accountability measures.