Overview
We are a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through inclusive programs, leadership development, and community engagement. Through partnerships, volunteer networks, and strategic fundraising, we build stronger, more inclusive communities across North Carolina.
The State Director serves as the senior leader for the North Carolina market, responsible for overall strategy, revenue performance, program execution, team leadership, and community presence. This individual leads a four-person team and owns all fundraising, programs, staff leadership, and community presence across the state. This role calls for a relationship-driven fundraiser who can rebuild and deepen donor relationships, grow the advisory board, and expand event reach beyond Charlotte into Raleigh, the Triangle, and other North Carolina markets.
Scope & Responsibilities
- Own statewide fundraising strategy and execution across major gifts, foundations, corporate giving, and signature events
- Personally lead Champion of the Year ($225K goal) and Friendship Walk ($77,500 goal): hands-on event execution, sponsor cultivation, committee management, and logistics
- Build and activate a North Carolina advisory board to drive donor introductions, foundation relationships, and statewide visibility
- Expand event and donor footprint beyond Charlotte into Raleigh, the Triangle, and other NC markets
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, corporate sponsors, and foundation partners with a relationship-first approach
- Lead, coach, and grow a four-person team; recruit to fill the open seat
- Oversee program quality and consistency across Friendship, Jobs, and Transitions in partnership with HQ
- Manage state budget, financial reporting, and operational infrastructure
- Serve as the primary public ambassador for the organization across community, media, and government relations
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience
- 4 to 7+ years of progressive fundraising experience with proven revenue growth, donor cultivation, and stewardship results
- 3 to 5+ years of staff management and team-building experience
- Hands-on experience leading peer-to-peer or signature fundraising events (galas, walks, Champion-style campaigns)
- Established or transferable network in North Carolina, with credibility to recruit advisory board members and major donors
- Strong written and verbal communication; comfortable as a public spokesperson
- Comfortable engaging with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
- Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required for events
- Access to reliable transportation