Director of Development - Strategic Fundraising, Donor Engagement, and Communications

Kenneth Young Center is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit dedicated to providing comprehensive outpatient behavioral health services to individuals of all walks of life. Located in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, we offer a wide range of services including outpatient therapeutic care, recovery-oriented support, community prevention, LGBTQ+ outreach, older adult services, and crisis intervention. Our team welcomes and celebrates unique perspectives and represents the diversity and vitality of our local communities. Join our team to grow in your career while building stronger, healthier communities.

Kenneth Young Center offers a robust benefit package that is highly competitive to the market and offers all full-time employees the following: 403(b) plan with organizational matching Medical Insurance (Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois - BCBS) Dental (BCBS), and Vision Insurance (BCBS) with low employee premiums Long Term and Short Term Disability (BCBS), no cost to employee Flexible Spending Account (with annual rollover) Basic life insurance (50k) paid for by the organization and option for additional voluntary coverage for self, spouse, or dependents (BCBS) Incentive program with potential for quarterly bonuses Opportunity for annual bonus and salary increase (discretionary based on annual KYC financial audit) Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) To further promote an active and healthy work/ life balance, KYC also offers a generous amount of paid time off and staff holidays. 4 weeks of Paid Time Off (With increases based on seniority) 8 Paid Organization-Wide Holidays 3 Personal Floating Holidays annually Job Scope: The Director of Development is a visionary and results-oriented leader responsible for advancing the Kenneth Young Center's mission through strategic fundraising, donor engagement, and integrated communication strategies. This individual will design and implement a multi-faceted development plan that grows philanthropic revenue, cultivates community and donor relationships, elevates KYC's brand visibility, and inspires confidence in the agency's impact.

As a key member of the executive team, the Director will work in close partnership with the CEO, Board of Directors, and internal leaders to ensure the sustainability and visibility of the organization. The ideal candidate brings innovation, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to KYC's core principles.

Key Responsibilities Strategic Fundraising Design and lead a comprehensive fundraising strategy including major gifts, monthly and annual giving, foundation and corporate relations, planned giving, and events. Partner with the CEO and Board to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors and philanthropic partners. Set measurable fundraising goals and monitor performance through data-driven strategies. Maintain ethical standards and ensure donor data integrity and compliance with fundraising regulations.

Donor Engagement & Stewardship Lead and manage a robust donor cultivation and stewardship program with an emphasis on relationship-building, gratitude, and impact. Oversee donor segmentation, portfolio management, and customized engagement strategies Develop recognition and stewardship programs that reflect donor values and KYC's mission Utilize CRM systems and donor analytics to improve engagement and retention.

Community Engagement & Events Oversee planning and execution of key fundraising events including an annual gala, peer-to-peer campaigns, and donor recognition events. Develop partnerships with local businesses, civic groups, and community leaders to expand visibility and diversify revenue streams. Engage and train staff and board members as fundraising ambassadors.

Marketing, Media, and Communications Act as a change agent, inspiring creativity and innovation in collaboration with Communication Manager to develop strategies that support development goals and elevate the KYC brand. Build and maintain strong public relations and media relationships; oversee development of press releases, thought leadership pieces, and storytelling that amplify KYC's impact. Collaborate cross-functionally with the Communications team to ensure alignment and buy-in for all media and communication initiatives. Support the implementation of new processes to enhance communication, efficiency, and measurable performance. Effectively manage and grow the communications and development budget with transparency and alignment to organizational goals.

Team Leadership & Culture Building Supervise and develop a high-performing development team grounded in KYC's values and outcomes-based practices. Build a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization, fostering collaboration, innovation, and shared accountability. Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all fundraising and communications practices.

Core Competencies: Proven track record of successful fundraising for multi-million-dollar agency Personal alignment with the mission and vision of Kenneth Young Center and a passion to support the work through visionary fundraising Strategic planning and revenue forecasting Major donor cultivation and stewardship Grant writing and institutional fundraising Marketing, media relations, and digital storytelling Public relations and external communications Event planning and community partnership development CRM and fundraising technology proficiency Budget development and transparent resource allocation Staff supervision and team development Inclusive and culturally responsive fundraising practices Education and Experience Bachelor degree required, an advanced degree preferred. Five (5) or more years of progressive job-related experience required. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Schedule/Time Keeping/Time-Off Exempt, Full-Time, 37.5 hour work week Must work a flexible schedule in response to the needs of the organization, as well as community outreach, including evening and Saturday hours.

Kenneth Young Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Pay Range: $104,800 - $150,000 per year