Manager, Philanthropy Events and Fundraising (Part-Time) chez The J

Description

The Manager, Philanthropy Events and Fundraising is an integral part of the Philanthropy Team at The J. The J’s Philanthropy Team is proud to host the annual fundraiser, KC SuperStar which raises a significant portion of the annual projected funds for the organization each year. This position manages key elements of the program, outside of production of the performance that is part of the event. This part time role has seasonal fluctuation in schedule and the quiet months are offset with the opportunity to support grassroots fundraising efforts including, but not limited to: Member Perks, Corporate Sponsorship, departmental fundraising events such as Trivia Night and expanding departmental expos and open house models. Due to the seasonal nature of this role, we are also open to discussing seasonal employment with significant time off in the off-season.

Schedule

Works in person and regularly includes evening and weekend hours for a variety of meetings and events.

Schedule fluctuates seasonally, with an emphasis on the spring and summer seasons as the busiest time of year. Beginning in February, evening and weekend responsibilities will become more frequent and last through August. Will average 25 hours a week over the course of the year and the schedule will be developed with mutual understanding of the needs of the role. 

Essential Functions

KC SuperStar

• Work cooperatively with KC SuperStar Producer to coordinate auditions, semifinals and finals to ensure robust participation, an excellent audience experience and that financial goals are met. Recruit, manage, and communicate with all auditioners to the competition. This seasonal component includes evening and weekend responsibilities.
• Staff the KC SuperStar Committee. Organize monthly KC Superstar Committee meetings, disseminate meeting minutes, and engage with committee through volunteer opportunities and guide them through strategic decision-making exercises.
• Manage opportunities to engage volunteers in the work of your portfolio.
• Works cooperatively with KC SuperStar Producer and in-house marketing team to coordinate all marketing related to annual fundraiser and donor recognition events including eblasts, social media, playbill, banners, website updates, all print collateral and ensure the event is on all relevant calendars.
• In collaboration with the KC SuperStar Producer, coordinate day of event schedule and logistics, including the donor receptions and ticketing.
• Track donations and pledges in various software systems to ensure proper accounting and communications (acknowledgements, billings, and letters of solicitation) are being sent in a timely manner.
• Manage the solicitation process for KC SuperStar. As the largest annual fundraiser for The J, there is a team of fundraisers who work on the engagement of donors and collection of donations. This role is responsible for organizing the lists of past donors, tracking the contact sheets, updating reports on a timely basis, and completing independent fundraising responsibilities such as the creation and distribution of solicitation letters and emails, follow up phone calls, and engaging with donors.
• Responsible for managing budgets, including KC Superstar, within budgetary guidelines and to submit all related expenses for payment.
• Develop relationships with donors and Legacy Society members and be creative in providing excellent personalized customer service.  

Grassroots Fundraising and Corporate Sponsorship

• Provide support for departmental fundraising events and community expos.
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit prospective corporate sponsors through research, outreach, and networking.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective corporate sponsors, ensuring excellent stewardship and year-round engagement.
• Create customized sponsorship proposals and packages that provide meaningful value to sponsors while supporting The J’s initiatives and events.
• Negotiate sponsorship agreements and ensure fulfillment of all contractual obligations, recognition, and benefits.
• Collaborate with program and event staff (e.g., KC SuperStar, community events, fitness/wellness programs) to integrate sponsorship opportunities and maximize visibility.
• Track, manage, and report on sponsorship commitments, deliverables, and outcomes to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Monitor corporate giving trends and benchmark against peer organizations to strengthen The J’s competitive positioning.

Requirements

• Experience working in nonprofit fundraising/donor relations is preferred
• Experience in event planning/management is preferred
• Excellent project management skills
• Experience in managing budgets
• Experience using databases, especially those used for donor management
• Exemplary customer service/interpersonal relationship management skills
• Able to think and adjust in stressful situations and solve problems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Organized and detailed-oriented
• Able to work evenings and weekends as necessary for committee meetings and for events
• Job is located at The J in Overland Park, Kansas (not remote or hybrid)

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate a keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Visual acuity to read a computer screen and printed materials.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching for office supplies or files.
• Ability to communicate clearly in person, over the phone, and via email.
• May occasionally need to lift up to 15 pounds (such as files, office supplies, or small equipment).

About The J

The J is committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. The J is Shabbat-Observant Friendly.

The mission of The J is to build a strong, vibrant and inclusive community that enhances wellness, meaning and joy based on Jewish values, heritage and culture. The J operates on these values:

• Welcoming + Inclusive - We are welcoming, inclusive and nurturing. We invite all to join us in making connections and lifelong friendships.
• Building Community - We believe in the strength of community and we seek to cultivate a sense of belonging in all we do.
• Enriching Mind + Body + Soul - We help individuals live a physically, intellectually, and emotionally healthy lifestyle.
• Passing on Jewish Culture + History - We celebrate and pass on the values, culture, history, and traditions of the Jewish people.
• Treat Others As You Wish To Be Treated - We treat everyone with respect, dignity and loving kindness.