Director of Philanthropy

Mission Statement

The mission of WomenShelter of Long Beach is to eliminate domestic violence through compassionate intervention, education, and personal empowerment.

About Us

Since 1977, WomenShelter of Long Beach (WSLB) has helped thousands of women, men, and children overcome the trauma caused by domestic abuse. WSLB assists families by providing safe housing, counseling, case management, education, health, and legal advocacy at no cost. To empower future generations, WSLB also provides “Healthy Relationships” and “Teen Dating Violence” prevention education in middle schools, high schools, and colleges throughout Long Beach and surrounding areas.

History and Background

WSLB was founded by Dr. Virginia Corbett in 1977. In 1999, the agency opened the Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC), the first community-based, storefront counseling and resource center in Greater Long Beach—offering easily accessible outreach services. WSLB continues to provide compassionate, trauma-informed, and survivor-centered services to those impacted by domestic violence.

Opportunity

Fulltime, Exempt, M-F, with some evenings and weekends

Compensation and Benefits:

• $92,000 – $100,000 annual salary (DOE)
• 401(k) with 3% employer matching after 6 months
• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, vision

WomenShelter of Long Beach is seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Director of Philanthropy to join our team. This key role will lead and support grant writing, donor stewardship, and fundraising events to help advance WSLB’s mission. The ideal candidate is a strong writer, relationship builder, and event coordinator who can work both independently and collaboratively to sustain and grow funding from institutional and individual supporters. The perfect person thrives on cultivating donors/sponsors, forging meaningful partnerships, and ensuring each supporter feels valued and inspired by their impact.

Responsibilities

Grants (25%)

• Research, write, and submit compelling proposals and reports to private foundations, corporations, and government funders
• Track grant requirements, deadlines, and deliverables
• Maintain grant calendar and coordinate with internal teams to gather required data and narratives
• Assist with budget development and compliance reporting in collaboration with Director of Development and Grant Writer

Donor Stewardship (30%)

• Maintain donor records, track engagement, and generate acknowledgment letters in a timely and personalized manner
• Support cultivation and stewardship strategies, including thank-you calls, handwritten notes, and donor updates
• Collaborate with program staff to gather impact stories and ensure donors feel connected to the mission
• Manage donor database (e.g., Little Green Light) and generate reports as needed

Events (35%)

• Plan and manage fundraising and cultivation events, including logistics, vendor coordination, sponsorships, and volunteer support
• Oversee event marketing, promotion, and follow-up
• Lead sponsorship solicitation and stewardship, ensuring sponsor benefits are fulfilled
• Coordinate with Development and Outreach staff to maximize community and donor engagement

Documentation & Compliance (10%)

• Ensure compliance with funder and agency requirements for all development-related activities
• Maintain accurate records and reports to support audits, grant reviews, and donor relations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, or related field preferred
• 4+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or grant writing
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills
• Knowledge of CRM systems, familiarity with DonorPerfect and WealthEngine beneficial
• Available to work occasional evenings and weekends
• Valid CA driver’s license and auto insurance

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building
• Detail-oriented and deadline-driven
• Confident with public speaking and donor engagement
• Commitment to trauma-informed values, equity, and the mission of WSLB

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Able to climb stairs and lift/carry up to 25 lbs
• Willingness to work evenings or weekends as needed

Not sure you meet 100% of the qualifications?

Research shows that men apply when they meet about 60% of the criteria, while women and systematically marginalized groups only apply if they meet nearly all. If this role excites you and you believe you can make a difference, we encourage you to apply. We’re committed to building an inclusive and diverse team and want to hear from individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences.

To apply, submit cover letter and resume/CV. To ensure fairness in our hiring process, we ask that you do not call regarding this position. Applicants who do so will be removed from consideration.