Role Overview

The Fundraising Director is responsible for leading, coordinating, and overseeing all fundraising and development activities at Dog Star Rescue (DSR). This includes managing donor and sponsor relationships, planning events, supporting grant efforts, and collaborating with internal teams to ensure financial sustainability across programs such as Foster, Dog Stars for Veterans (DS4V), and Medical.

This role reports directly to the Board of Directors and works closely with the Executive Director, who must review and approve key decisions, events, and contracts. The Fundraising Director also serves on the Capital Campaign Committee and may be asked to represent the organization in media coverage if the Executive Director and Marketing Director are unavailable.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Oversight

Research and propose annual fundraising goals based on program needs, historical performance, and strategic priorities.
Present proposed fundraising plans and goals to the Board of Directors for review and approval.
Submit major fundraising strategies, campaigns, and event plans for Executive Director approval prior to implementation.

Donor & Sponsor Engagement

In collaboration with the Executive Director, build and maintain strong relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, local businesses, and foundations to ensure alignment with organizational priorities and messaging.
Partner with the Executive Director on in-person outreach across Connecticut to secure sponsorships, raffle items, gift cards, and monetary donations.
Coordinate with the Executive Director on donor stewardship, including timely follow-ups and implementation of donor recognition efforts to promote ongoing support and engagement.

Fundraising Events & Campaigns

Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising campaigns and events, including four major pillar events annually.
Coordinate event logistics, budgets, volunteer assignments, and post-event evaluations.
Prepare and submit all contracts related to fundraising efforts for Executive Director signature.

Grants Management

Oversee the grants team and assist in identifying viable funding opportunities aligned with DSR’s mission.

Cross-Departmental Support

Collaborate with leaders of key DSR programs (Foster, DS4V, Medical) to identify and fulfill specific fundraising needs.
Actively contribute to the Capital Campaign Committee with outreach planning and donor engagement strategies.

Media & Public Representation

Participate in media promotions and represent DSR on-screen when both the Executive Director and Marketing Director are unavailable.

Administrative Duties

Track and analyze fundraising performance; report progress and metrics to the Board of Directors and stakeholders.
Maintain a well-organized tracking system to document donor contacts, outreach efforts, past giving, and commitments.
Ensure compliance with all relevant fundraising laws and regulations, including donor privacy and charitable solicitation rules.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience in fundraising, development, sales, or outreach is strongly preferred.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
Proven ability to lead and manage volunteers, multitask, and remain calm under pressure.
High attention to detail and strong record-keeping skills.
Independent worker who thrives in collaborative team environments.
Friendly, confident demeanor and willingness to conduct cold outreach.
Prior experience volunteering within a DSR team or familiarity with DSR programs is a plus.
Technologically proficient or willing to learn Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Donor View, and Shelter Manager.

Working Conditions

Remote role with required access to a phone, internet, and a laptop or tablet.
Must be able to travel locally within Connecticut to meet with sponsors, attend events, and build relationships.
Participation in all four major pillar events is required.
Event attire varies by type: professional casual or branded wear for fundraising events; casual and functional wear (closed-toe shoes, tied-back hair) for adoption events.

Benefits

Directly contribute to rescuing and rehoming dogs while addressing a national crisis.
Experience the personal fulfillment of community impact and leadership.
Receive plenty of dog kisses along the way.

Time Commitment Per Week

20+ hours/week (may increase leading up to major events)

Reporting to

Board of Directors
Supervised By Executive Director (for approvals and strategic alignment)