The New School

Responsibilities:

The Center for New York City Affairs (CNYCA) at The New School is an applied policy research organization. The Center works where people’s lives intersect with government and community organizations to illuminate the impact of public policy on the lives of individuals and communities. Our research focuses on what works, practical solutions, rigorous analysis, and provides real-time feedback for policymakers, providers, and communities.

The Institute for Transformative Mentoring (ITM) is a dynamic training program focused on the development of credible messengers (formerly incarcerated and systems-impacted individuals) working in the social services fields throughout New York City. These mentors help young people navigate and prevent community violence and avoid the criminal justice system. ITM’s professional development programs center healing, restorative justice, interpersonal connection, and practical skill-building. Over 300 individuals from 80 community-based organizations have completed ITM programs, earning college credit and advancing their careers and capacity to serve their communities.

Position Summary

The Development and Communications Specialist will work with the Director of ITM and the Center’s Executive Director to develop and implement a strategic plan to increase and diversify ITM’s funding. The person in this new position will take initiative in launching and implementing strategic fundraising and communications. Areas of focus include donor development, earned revenue, public and private grants, business, fundraising events, and communications in support of the program’s fundraising goals.

This part-time staff position is challenged with increasing the promotion, visibility and funding of ITM. ITM has an annual budget of approximately $900,000 and funders include the Pinkerton Foundation, Other Press, Trinity Church Foundation, New York City Human Resources Administration, the City Council, United Way, and employer and individual contributions.

The New School is committed to creating and maintaining an environment that promises diversity and tolerance in all areas of employment, education and access to its educational, artistic or cultural programs and activities. The New School does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, creed, sex or gender (including actual or perceived gender identity or expression or transgender status), sexual orientation, sexual and other reproductive health decisions, pregnancy, religion, religious practices, mental or physical disability, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, veteran status, marital or partnership status, or any other legally protected status.

Position Specifics

Reports to: Director of the Institute for Transformative Mentoring (ITM)

Responsibilities:

• Develop an annual fundraising plan in conjunction with ED and Director.
• Identify funding prospects (public, private, corporate, and individual), help secure meetings with prospective funders for the director, and increase the number of proposals submitted.
• Help to reinvigorate an advisory board.
• Increase individual giving by cultivating, maintaining, and strengthening donor relationships, including managing a Giving Tuesday campaign and other initiatives..
• Increase earned revenue, including payments for training.
• Write proposals, thank you letters and other donor communications.
• Develop and implement a communication plan to raise visibility for ITM and support fundraising.
• Generate content, including e-newsletter, annual report, data and policy pieces, website and social media updates.
• Pitch or generate articles for local and national media.

This position is funded by and contingent upon external fundraising.

Work Mode: Hybrid

Compensation:: $30-45/hr

People with histories of arrest, conviction and/or incarceration are encouraged to apply. For more information about ITM, please visit our website: http://www.centernyc.org/itm-about

Minimum Qualifications:

• Demonstrated track record in nonprofit fundraising, including securing public and private funding, building an individual donor program, cultivation of major gifts, and experience in organizing events and working with vendors.
• Knowledge of the basic components of successful fundraising strategies and programs.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Competency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint programs; familiarity with donor database programs; graphic design skills a plus.
• Ability to relate effectively with diverse audiences, including ITM’s advisory board members, major donors, foundation staff, media outlets, community audiences, including system impacted people.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, problem solve, and work as part of a cohesive and collaborative team.
• Commitment to social and racial justice and an understanding of community-based anti-violence initiatives.
• Ability to adhere to university COVID-19 policy.

Preferred Qualifications: Job Family: Milano School of International Affairs, Management, and Urban Policy Special Instructions to Applicants: