Overview
Family Connection–Communities In Schools (FC-CIS) of Athens is a nonprofit organization working at the intersection of education, family support, and community collaboration. Since 1992, FC-CIS has partnered with schools, nonprofits, government agencies, and local leaders to ensure students and families in Clarke County have access to the supports they need to succeed. Our programs combine school-based intervention with community-driven solutions, emphasizing whole-family well-being, equity, and long-term impact.
Vision : We envision an Athens-Clarke County where every individual is empowered to reach their fullest potential.
Mission : We connect students, families, and residents with the relationships and resources they need to thrive by :
- Supporting students with holistic, coordinated services
- Connecting families and residents to vital resources
- Collaborating with local leaders to meet community needs
We Believe : When Communities Connect, People Thrive.
Position Summary
The Director of Development is a senior-level position responsible for implementing FC-CIS's established fundraising and communications strategy. This role leads donor engagement, major gifts, grants, and marketing efforts; coordinates special events; manages donor data systems; and supervises development interns. As a key member of the leadership team, the Director of Development will advance FC-CIS's mission and vision through relationship-building, strategic fundraising, and community-centered communications. This is an opportunity to join a values-driven team committed to equity, collaboration, and creating thriving communities across Athens-Clarke County.
Primary Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy Implementation & Evaluation – 30%Implement and continuously refine FC-CIS's multi-year fundraising plan
Expand and build lasting relationships with individual and corporate donorsIdentify and pursue new foundation grant opportunities that reduce reliance on government funding and foster deeper community connectionTrack and report on fundraising metrics and trends to inform strategyServe as staff liaison to the Board Resource Development CommitteeDonor Stewardship & Relationship Management – 25%Manage a portfolio of 40–60 major donors, sponsors, and prospects
Develop and execute individualized stewardship plansCoordinate donor cultivation activities, meetings, and toursOversee the development of impact reports, acknowledgments, and appealsGrants & Foundation Relations – 15%Maintain and manage an active grants calendar
Write and submit compelling proposals and funder reportsCollaborate with program staff to gather data and outcomes for reportingProactively research and vet new grant opportunities aligned with FC-CIS's missionMarketing, Communications & Brand Oversight – 15%Oversee execution of FC-CIS's marketing strategy in partnership with Defined Campaigns (interim)
Guide creation of digital and print content, newsletters, and social media campaignsEnsure messaging consistency and alignment with fundraising prioritiesPrepare for internal transition of marketing responsibilities by Year 3Event Planning & Campaign Execution – 10%Lead planning and execution of annual fundraising events
Secure sponsors, develop event communications, and oversee logisticsCollaborate with staff and vendors to ensure meaningful donor and community experiencesSupport additional donor and partner engagement activities throughout the yearDonor Data, CRM Management & Intern Oversight – 5%Manage the organization's donor CRM (e.g., Bloomerang, Salesforce, or similar)
Maintain data accuracy, ensure timely gift entry and acknowledgmentGenerate reports to evaluate progress and support decision-makingSupervise and mentor 1–2 development interns assisting with database upkeep, communications, and event preparationRequired Qualifications
Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, marketing, or related fieldsProven track record in donor stewardship, major gifts, grant writing, and event planningStrong written and verbal communication skills, including persuasive storytellingExperience managing CRM platforms such as Neon, Bloomerang, Salesforce, or similar systemsHighly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple deadlines and prioritiesAbility to work collaboratively with a diverse team, community partners, and volunteersDeep commitment to the mission, vision, and values of FC-CISPreferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, marketing, communications, business, or a related fieldFamiliarity with Athens-Clarke County or similar communitiesSupervisory experience (interns, volunteers, or staff)Graphic design, video, or content creation experience is a plusCompensation & Benefits
Salary Range : $60,000 – $65,000 annually, commensurate with experience
Benefits include :
Employer health insurance contributionRetirement plan with employer contributionGenerous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)Flexible hybrid work environmentProfessional development allowanceOpportunities for professional development and salary growth consistent with organizational growthMileage reimbursement for work-related travelHow to Apply
To Apply, please email the following deliverables to jobs@fc-cis.org
Cover Letter – describing your fundraising experience and alignment with FC-CIS's missionResume – outlining your relevant professional experienceTwo Writing Samples – such as a donor appeal, grant proposal, or stewardship reportOne Design Sample – such as a social media graphic, flyer, or campaign pieceThree Professional References – with contact informationOptional Portfolio Materials – design, campaigns, or event examples if availableApplication Deadline : Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to submissions received by October 3, 2025.
Equal Opportunity Statement : Family Connection-Communities In Schools of Athens is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, or political affiliation.
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