HISTORY:
GRIOT Circle was founded in Brooklyn, N.Y. in 1996 by LGBTQ elders of color in order to respond to the social and psychological fragmentation caused by ageism, racism, sexism, homophobia and poverty in the lives of LGBTQ elders of color. GRIOT (Gay Reunion in Our Time) - meaning storyteller and keeper of oral history in West African culture – is officially recognized as a nonprofit 501(c) (3) and remains the only staffed organization in the country exclusively dedicated to serving the needs of LGBTQ elders of color. The mission is to respond to and eliminate all forms of oppression, including: ageism, racism, sexism, misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, poverty, xenophobia, and their intersections. We achieve this by providing health, wellness, advocacy, and leadership activities to remove isolation and fear, build community, as well as honor racial and ethnic traditions.
The Development Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing all of GRIOT Circle’s fundraising efforts, The ideal candidate brings strong experience in foundation and individual donor fundraising, grant writing and reporting, event planning, budgeting and financial management. The Development Manager works closely with The Executive Director, the Board of Directors, and the GRIOT staff team.
Responsibilities
- Writing compelling grant proposals and reports - ensuring that the organizational data, mission, and goals of GRIOT Circle are communicated persuasively.
- Proactively identify and cultivate prospects for fundraising activities including individuals and corporate donors.
- Develop an annual development plan in consultation with the ED and Board Fundraising Committee.
- Meet with prospective donors and supporters on a continual basis and work with ED to cultivate relationships with government officials.
- Grow individual gifts program.
- Coordinate fund raising special events.
- Managing grants portfolio and calendar - ensuring that letters of intent, proposals, and reports are submitted in advance of deadlines.
- Staff Board Development Committee meetings
- Oversee fundraising databases and tracking systems and analyze data for regular reports and updates on outcomes.
- Work with communication staff to create publications that support fund raising and program activities.
- Collaborate with the ED to ensure successful logging and tracking of gifts received and sending proper donation acknowledgments.
- All other duties as assigned by the Executive Director
Qualifications and Skills
-Three to five years minimum fundraising experience.
- Knowledge of LGBTQ, and/or seniors and/or communities of color.
-Have demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and grant writing experience.
-Have knowledge and experience in fundraising with individuals.
-Work with and motivate staff, Board members, and volunteers in a team atmosphere to achieve fundraising goals.
