Americorps VISTA Development and Special Initiatives Coordinator

National Indian Child Welfare Association

Organizational Mission: NICWA is dedicated to the well-being of American Indian children and families.

Position: VISTA Development and Special Initiatives Coordinator

Location: NICWA, 5100 SW Macadam Avenue, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97239

The VISTA development and special initiatives coordinator will build upon the work of the first two VISTA members in sustaining NICWA's major donor program. The VISTA member will work with development staff to increase the financial base for NICWA's core programs. This includes working with private foundations, Indian tribes, and private donors.

Responsibilities: Assist development manager in developing and implementing major donor cultivation and solicitation action plan, including methods of identifying new donors and implementing solicitation strategies for current and prospective donors.

Assist with cultivation activities, including house parties, with prospective donors and current major donors.

Implement major donor solicitation and acknowledgment strategies in coordination with the development manager, the executive director, and members of the boards of directors.

Assist in the implementation of strategies to upgrade and convert mail responsive donors to the major gift program.

Work to ensure that information on major donors is comprehensive and up to date.

Ensure donor and prospect records are current with all necessary and pertinent information.

Help identify planned giving prospects.

Participate in the strategic planning for fundraising programs.

Research information on giving guidelines for tribes and private foundations.

Update information on tribes and private foundations.

Write donation and grant proposals and letters of inquiry to tribes and private foundations.

Update Grants Calendar.

Increase NICWA's base of financial supporters.

Complete general office duties related to position (mailings, filing, phone calls, community outreach, etc.).

Attend CBVC/AmeriCorps*VISTA sponsored orientation, trainings, meetings, and disaster response courses.

Qualifications: Knowledge and/or interest in American Indian issues. Strong organizational and time management skills. An independent, self-motivated, creative and resourceful individual with a commitment to NICWA's mission. Strong interpersonal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and complex schedules. Strong written and verbal communication skills required--(please attach a writing sample)**. Some travel required (paid for by NICWA). Fundraising/grant writing experiences a plus. Comfortable with computers, proficient with Windows Office Suite and database programs (Access, Raiser's Edge).

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Eddie Sherman, development manager, at [email protected] or 503.222.4044, ext. 123