Job Description
Director of Donor Relations (Contract – 1099)
Caldwell Foundation for Public Safety
Full-Time Equivalent | Remote/Hybrid (Flexible)
About the Caldwell Foundation for Public Safety
The Caldwell Foundation for Public Safety is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing public safety, supporting victims of violence, and strengthening communities through education, advocacy, and direct-impact programs.
Founded from a deeply personal commitment to justice, the Foundation works to expand awareness, fund critical initiatives, and build partnerships that create meaningful, lasting change. By connecting donors directly to mission-driven outcomes, we ensure that every contribution supports safer communities and stronger public safety systems.
About the Role
We are seeking a strategic, results-driven Director of Donor Relations to lead and scale our fundraising efforts. This role is responsible for building a sustainable philanthropic engine that fuels organizational growth and impact.
This is a high-impact, externally facing position focused on revenue generation, donor engagement, and relationship management. The ideal candidate is both a strategist and a hands-on fundraiser who thrives in a mission-driven, growth-stage environment.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Revenue Growth
- Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy to increase annual revenue and long-term donor value
- Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, corporate, and foundation donors
- Build and manage a strong donor pipeline, with emphasis on major gifts and recurring contributions
- Partner with leadership and board members on high-level donor engagement and closing strategies
Donor Engagement & Stewardship
- Build and maintain meaningful, long-term donor relationships
- Design and implement a structured donor stewardship program to increase retention and lifetime value
- Oversee donor communications including acknowledgments, impact reports, and personalized outreach
Campaigns, Messaging & Storytelling
- Develop compelling, mission-driven messaging that inspires giving
- Lead fundraising campaigns including annual appeals, Giving Tuesday, and special initiatives
- Translate program outcomes into clear, emotionally compelling donor narratives
Events & Community Engagement
- Plan and execute donor-focused events and engagement opportunities
- Represent the Foundation at community events, meetings, and public forums
- Build strategic partnerships with corporate and community stakeholders
Grants & Institutional Funding
- Identify and pursue grant opportunities
- Lead development of LOIs and full grant proposals
- Manage grants calendar, submissions, and reporting requirements
Data, Reporting & Systems
- Utilize CRM tools to track donor activity, forecast revenue, and measure performance
- Provide regular reporting on fundraising progress and KPIs
- Continuously refine strategies using data and insights
Qualifications
- 5-8+ years of experience in fundraising, development, or donor relations (nonprofit preferred)
- Proven success in securing donations and managing donor relationships
- Strong communication and storytelling skills
- Experience with CRM systems and fundraising analytics
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
Compensation (1099 Contractor)
This is a 1099 independent contractor role, not a W-2 employee position. Compensation is structured to reward performance and fundraising success.
Recommended Market Range:
- Base Retainer: $5,000 – $8,000/month (depending on experience and expected hours)
Why This Role
- Direct impact on public safety and community well-being
- Opportunity to build and shape the fundraising function from the ground up
- Flexible, remote-friendly structure
- High upside tied to performance