Organizational Overview:

Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) is a world leader in arts-in-corrections, operating for almost three decades with a unique, immersive and highly successful model. RTA leads programs in 10 maximum and medium security, men’s and women’s prisons across NY State and launched its new reentry program in a facility in California this year. Started in 1996 at Sing Sing Correctional Facility with a theater workshop, RTA now offers comprehensive art programming across music and voice, dance, visual arts, and writing. RTA’s mission is to help people in prison develop life skills through the arts, modeling an approach to the justice system based on human dignity, rather than punishment.

RTA is at an exciting moment of organizational growth, working to realize key growth priorities. We are expanding the footprint of our arts workshops, rolling out our unique reentry program within NY State, and developing new partnerships and collaborations.

The independent feature film, Sing Sing, is based on RTA’s theater program. Starring Academy Award nominee, Colman Domingo and the other professional actors, but especially our program alumni playing versions of themselves, created something extraordinary that will help draw attention not just to RTA, but the entire field of arts-in-corrections and its transformative power. We are making new friends all over the country who have seen the film and have been moved to learn more.

RTA operates with a budget of approximately $2.0 million with contributed revenue providing the majority. RTA operates with a dedicated team of 8 full-time and 2 part-time staff members. Our programs are led by professional teaching artists and approximately 35 are active at any one time.

Position Description:

The Director of Development will be responsible for growing RTA’s fundraising revenue by planning and implementing a comprehensive program that expands the organization’s base of individual supporters and major donors, as well as government, foundation and corporate funders. The successful candidate will work closely with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors to develop fundraising goals and strategies.

The Director of Development will report to the Executive Director. Reporting to the Director of Development will be a Development Manager (to be hired), contracted grants writers and a Development Associate.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan to meet RTA’s annual and longer-term revenue goals.
Secure financial support from individuals, government entities, foundations and corporations.
Develop and maintain ongoing relationships with major donors.
Create and implement a strategy for a large, sustained base of engaged, annual individual donors.
Plan and execute special events that engage donors and raise funds for the organization.
Pursue new funding opportunities and deepen relationships with current institutional funders, including elected officials.
Monitor and analyze fundraising data to evaluate performance and adjust strategies, as needed.
Collaborate with Director of Marketing and Communications to develop and execute effective donor communications and marketing materials.
Prepare/accompany Executive Director and Board members for key solicitation meetings.
Manage annual dues and other communication with Board of Directors, as needed.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Proven experience growing philanthropic support for a non-profit organization. This includes solicitation of major gifts and cultivating relationships with foundations and government officials.
Experienced in managing, motivating and growing a team.
Detail-oriented, creative self-starter skilled in planning and experienced in developing and presenting project-based budgets.
Excellent communication skills – both written and oral – with demonstrated interpersonal and leadership skills.
Interest in prison reform and the arts.
BA degree or equivalent in work experience
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint), Google Workspace, and common CRM/donor databases.
A driver’s license and access to a car.
Ability to work flexible hours.

Compensation and Benefits: 

The salary range for this position is $110,000 to $125,000, commensurate with experience.  RTA’s benefits include a yearly performance-based bonus, full benefits package, including health coverage, FSA, leave, and generous vacation and time off which includes a week for Christmas through New Year.

RTA is located in Purchase, NY and operates in a hybrid model.

Work Environment:

RTA is a fast-paced organization led by a collaborative staff who values teamwork through staff-developed, mutually agreed upon core values. We live the values of diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of our work and are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, including those impacted by the justice system. 

RTA supports a healthy work-life balance and recognizes that there are tangible benefits from supporting flexible working practices. Staff work a standard work week but are occasionally required to work some evenings and/or weekends for special events. 

Equal Opportunity Employer: 

RTA is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. RTA does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.

Don’t check off every box in the requirements listed above? Studies have shown that marginalized communities - such as women, LGBTQ+ and people of color - are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. If this looks like the right job for you, please apply anyway! Note: RTA requires that all employees be fully vaccinated (excluding any applicable reasonable accommodation, medical or religious exemption). 

TO APPLY, PLEASE SEND RESUME AND A COVER LETTER TO: employment[at]rta-arts.org

Please put in the subject line: Director of Development Position 

Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA)

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