Director of Development

The National Foster Youth Institute (NFYI) is seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial Director of Development to lead the next chapter of our fundraising growth and expand the resources needed to transform the child welfare system.

NFYI is a national, non-partisan nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that current and former foster youth have a seat at the table with legislators, policymakers, and decision makers shaping the future of foster care.

As we approach our 15th year, NFYI is entering an exciting period of growth. We are looking for a strategic fundraising leader who can build upon our strong foundation, deepen philanthropic relationships, and create new pathways for impact.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Director of Development will serve as NFYI’s chief fundraising strategist and frontline fundraiser. This leader will develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy with responsibility for securing $2M+ annually through a diverse portfolio of:

• Foundation partnerships

• Major gifts and individual donors

• Corporate relationships

• Events and campaigns

• Digital fundraising initiatives

The Director will partner closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to cultivate, solicit, and steward transformational philanthropic relationships while expanding NFYI’s national funding network.

The Ideal Candidate Will Bring:

• 5 to 7+ years of demonstrated nonprofit fundraising success
• A proven record securing major gifts and growing revenue
• Existing relationships with foundations, individual donors, and/or corporate partners
• Experience expanding donor pipelines; not simply maintaining existing relationships
• Ability to fundraise across multiple markets (bi-coastal experience strongly preferred)
• Strong storytelling, relationship-building, and donor engagement skills
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a remote, mission-driven environment

Most importantly, we are seeking a leader who believes deeply that young people with lived experience in foster care must play a central role in creating solutions and driving systemic change.

This is a unique opportunity to help scale a nationally recognized organization working at the intersection of youth leadership, advocacy, public policy, and social impact.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their fundraising experience and interest in NFYI to: nfyi@thehawkinscompany.com

Attn: Todd Hawkins and Tisa Jones