Director of Development- Donor Relations and Special Events

Director of Development – Donor Relations and Special Events

Location: Kosciusko County, Indiana
Organization: Cardinal Services, Inc. (part of the Easterseals Community Network)
Service Area: Development/Fundraising
Salery: $57,216.43 starting wage-based on experience

About the Role

Cardinal Services, Inc. is seeking a passionate and results-driven Director of Development to lead donor engagement efforts and special event planning. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned fundraising professional to make a lasting impact in the community by inspiring generosity and building meaningful relationships.

You’ll work closely with a network-wide development team, act as an ambassador in the community, and play a key role in driving philanthropic support for life-changing programs.

Key Responsibilities

Development Strategy & Implementation

• Lead planning and execution of signature events, including The Cardinal Luncheon.

• Develop and implement corporate giving and philanthropic growth strategies.

• Represent Cardinal Services within the community as the primary development contact.

• Identify and cultivate donor prospects and community partnerships.

• Host Changing Lives Tours to engage and welcome potential donors.

• Support major gifts pipeline by cultivating relationships and moving donors forward.

• Assist with implementing the ENI Sustainability Model.

• Collaborate with internal teams and senior leadership to meet fundraising goals and strategic objectives.

• Support grant writing, donor communications, and campaign execution.

• Assist in planning and executing additional fundraising events.

Donor Relations & Recognition

• Manage donor acknowledgment process, including CEO thank-you letters.

• Track and analyze donor data using CRM systems.

• Maintain cultivation and recognition programs for all donor levels.

• Collaborate with marketing to create donor-facing materials such as newsletters, social media, reports, and appeals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Development, Communications, PR, Business, or related field.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in fundraising, marketing, or public relations.

• Proven success in event planning, donor engagement, and community relations.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Strategic thinker with ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Proficiency in CRM/donor management software and Microsoft Office.

• Passion for the mission of empowering individuals with disabilities and their families.

• Valid driver’s license, safe driving record, and proof of insurance.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based in Kosciusko County with regular in-county travel.

• Some evening and weekend work required.

• Occasional travel to corporate office.

• Must be able to perform light to moderate lifting as needed.