Reporting to the VP, Marketing & Philanthropy, the Philanthropy Officer, Major Gifts & Events will play a key role in establishing and developing long term philanthropic relationships with prospects, donors and sponsors focusing on the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of a portfolio of major gift prospects with the capacity and interest in providing financial support to the YMCA’s events, programs and services.

The Philanthropy Officer, Major Gift & Events will have a high-level of comfort and expertise in soliciting individual and corporate support through face-to-face meetings, telephone and email correspondence. This position will support in the coordination of strategic moves to help the Y reach its overall financial goals and is capable of working with individuals and businesses to secure investments of $10,000 or more.

As an integral member of the Philanthropy team, this role also requires collaboration with the Marketing Department and Program Delivery teams while encouraging, promoting and demonstrating a culture of philanthropy and collaborative environment.

If the following sounds like a meaningful day at work, this job might be for you!

• Work closely with the VP of Marketing & Philanthropy to develop and implement a robust fund development plan for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major gift prospects.
• Develop and implement comprehensive strategies for solicitating, securing and stewarding major gifts from individuals, groups, foundations, and corporations to support YMCA events, programs and services.
• Build, develop and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects (75-100) scheduling face-to-face meetings for the purpose of moves management, discovery, cultivation and solicitation.
• Ensure that appropriate donor recognition, acknowledgment and stewardship programs are in place and adhered to while also serving as primary solicitor as appropriate.
• Research potential new prospects and follows up with new donors solicited through events while preparing proposals, implementing stewardship protocols and coordinate necessary follow-up for solicitation calls.
• Secure sponsorship support for signature events that contribute to expanding the Y’s donor database and raising public awareness.
• Lead and manage all fundraising events with a focus on developing and nurturing strong community and staff relations.
• Implement a professional and strategic approach to donor cultivation, solicitation and stewardship activities that deepen relationships and build donor loyalty and retention.
• Lead in the development and execution of annual event campaigns with an awareness of current social, political and environmental influences and fund development trends.
• Ensure all donor interactions and information is accurately recorded, kept confidential and maintained in association’s donor management software.

We’d love to hear with people with:

• Strong relationship building skills, donor cultivation and solicitation experience.
• Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and in a team environment with strong communication skills and ability to think strategically.
• Proven success in major gift fundraising ability with complete discretion in handling confidential information and materials, and a high ethical standard for donor centered fundraising.
• Minimum 4 years of fund development experience in major gifts.
• Post-secondary degree or certification an asset.
• A thorough understanding of the philanthropic landscape in the Southern Interior BC.
• Experience with the design and execution of capital campaigns and planned giving programs would be an asset.
• Knowledge of Raisers Edge and/or other donor relationship platforms.
• Driver’s license and reliable vehicle is required.

Compensation:

• Starting hourly wage range of $36.04-$39.69 depending on experience
• Competitive vacation and paid wellness days for you and your family
• Eligibility for extended health and dental
• Free YMCA gym membership to Y facilities for you and your family
• Generous employer matched pension plan
• Extensive Employee Assistance Program
• Training and professional development opportunities

Required Competencies:

• Commitment to Mission, Vision, and Values:  Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for the mission, vision, and values of the YMCA of Southern Interior BC.
• Service Orientated:  Deliberately identifies and creates opportunities to enhance each and every individual's YMCA experience. Creates action plans to resolve any service gap areas.
• Relationship Building and Collaboration:  Builds positive interactions, listens attentively and communicates effectively to create an open communication environment. Share information, best practices, and resources with colleagues.

The YMCA’s Commitment to Trust, Safety, and Equality:

As part of a trusted charitable organization, you can expect to receive excellent services and safety training throughout your YMCA career. As the first step in your journey, you will be required to:

• Provide 3 references of a professional nature (Ex. employer, supervisor, colleague, teacher, coach, etc.)
• Provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check/Vulnerable Sector Search issued no later than six (6) months preceding your start date. The YMCA will provide applicable instructions and paperwork.

The YMCA of Southern Interior BC is an equity employer and encourages applications from all individuals who may contribute to the diversity of our workplace. This includes persons with diverse abilities, persons of colour and ethnicity, Indigenous persons (First Nations, Metis, and Inuit), and people of all sexual orientations and genders.

Application Process:

This is an exciting time for the YMCA. Join us and be part of a passionate, dedicated and impactful team!

Candidates are invited to send cover letters and resumes by  September 4, 2025  directed to:

Tammie Watson  – VP, Marketing & Philanthropy