Development Associate

Description
Organization Info:
RAMP Disability Resources & Services is a non-residential Center for Independent Living with a mission to build an inclusive community that encourages individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential. RAMP's work is guided by our commitments to inclusion, participation, accountability, and autonomy.

Purpose of Position:
The Development Associate supports RAMP's mission by implementing and growing the organization's fundraising initiatives through special events, donor engagement, and community partnerships. This position plays a key role in building and maintaining relationships that generate revenue and awareness to sustain RAMP's programs and services. Working collaboratively with the Chief Operating Officer/Development Director and team members, the Development Associate helps ensure the organization's financial goals are met and aligned with its commitment to inclusion and independence for individuals with disabilities.

Reporting Structure:
Reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO)/Development Director (DD).

Position Location:
Home office is located in Rockford, with opportunity for hybrid work.

Primary Responsibilities
Plan and Implement RAMP's Annual Special Events

• Coordinate all aspects of RAMP's fundraising special events.
• Identify, recruit and grow potential and new sponsors and participants.
• Secure key community leaders to serve as volunteers.
• Coordinate logistics of all special events including mailings, social media, permits, set up, event implementation, cleanup & followup
• Prepare and update progress reports to track event goals.
• Work with Marketing Manager to write, design, and implement marketing materials for special events.

Donor Solicitation, Cultivation, and Recognition

• Identify and solicit potential donors through community presentations, meetings, direct phone calls, emails, mail, and online platforms.
• Provide effective communication with donors and sponsors to maintain strong relationships to ensure continued support.
• Develop and implement donor recognition strategies to thank donors for their support.

Assist COO/DD in Ensuring the Sustainability of RAMP's Financial Future

• Assist in preparing strategy, goals, and objectives of fundraising and development aspects.
• Execute strategy to help ensure all financial milestones are met and increased annually.
• Write and submit grants per year at the direction of the COO/DD.
• Provide written and general assistance to the COO/DD.

Administrative And Supervisory Responsibilities

• Effectively communicate with supervisor, and all staff/board, when appropriate, on progress of fundraising goals.
• Accurately and efficiently enter donor communication into donor database.
• Complete all required internal paperwork (timesheets, expense reports, goals, fundraising reports, etc.) in a timely and accurate manner.
• Opportunity to grow into supervisory role and professional development insight for Development Support Specialist.

Performance Metrics

• Achieve or exceed annual fundraising goals by generating at least 5% growth in net revenue.
• Secure a minimum of 20% new sponsors or donors annually.
• Maintain a donor retention rate of 70% or higher through timely follow-ups, consistent communication, and execution of donor recognition strategies.

Compensation And Benefits
Salaried Non-Exempt:
26 bi-weekly pay dates, working 37.5 to 40 hours per week to meet results.

Salary Range:
based on experience $43,860 - $47,368.

Supportive Work Culture:
Be part of an inclusive, compassionate, and respectful work environment that values your contributions and fosters personal and professional growth.

Mileage and Expense Reimbursement:
All job-related mileage and qualifying expenses are reimbursed.

Full Benefits Package

• Paid Time Off (PTO): 2 weeks of PTO accrued over 26 pay periods, available after 90 days
• Sick Time: 2 weeks accrued over 26 pay periods, available immediately upon accrual
• Holidays: 13 observed holidays plus 1 floating holiday, which may be used at your discretion
• Holiday Gift Week: Paid time off between Christmas and New Year's
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage (partially covered by RAMP)
• 401K Program: 3% employer match, with ROTH option
• Dental & Vision Insurance: Dental coverage partially covered by RAMP, optional vision
• Life Insurance: Provided at no cost to you by RAMP
• Supplemental Voluntary Coverage Options: Accident, Life Insurance, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability, Identity Theft Protection, and Legal Assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Up to three free counseling sessions per family member, per issue
• Performance-Based Work Model: Complete autonomy in determining how and when to meet your work outcomes, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Requirements
Required Skills/Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present information in a clear, concise manner.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as a team player.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to demonstrate creativity, take initiative, and display responsible decision-making.

Minimum Qualifications

• Literacy in word processing and database management.
• Ability to use or learn Microsoft Office programs: Teams, SharePoint, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks while maintaining organization and meeting deadlines.
• Professional manner in dress and when interacting with others both inside and outside of the organization.
• Personal experience and/or intimate knowledge of and belief in the Independent Living Philosophy.
• Self-motivated, task oriented.
• Reliable transportation and a willingness to work early morning, evening and some weekend hours, if needed.
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices and principles.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred, not required.

Work And Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each office location.

Disclaimer:
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
RAMP provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This statement applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.