Job Description
“I Have A Dream” Foundation - Washington DC Executive Director
Background
The “I Have A Dream” Foundation (IHDF) is a national nonprofit dedicated to motivating and empowering children in low-income communities to reach their educational and career potential. IHDF partners with families, schools, and communities to advance equity through a long-term, culturally responsive, whole-child model. Dreamer Scholars receive mentoring, academic support, enrichment opportunities, and post-secondary guidance from early elementary school through college, along with guaranteed scholarship assistance.
Position Summary
IHDF is re-launching a chapter in Washington, DC and seeking an Executive Director to lead this program. Working closely with IHDF National and reporting to a local board, the Executive Director will serve as the chief leader and external ambassador for IHDF–DC. This role oversees strategy, operations, fundraising, community engagement, and the successful execution of IHDF’s mission. The Executive Director represents the organization to families, schools, donors, partners, and civic leaders.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership
- Set a compelling vision aligned with IHDF’s whole-child approach and mission.
- Build and expand the local Board of Directors in collaboration with IHDF National.
- Participate in IHDF National convenings, committees, and strategic initiatives.
Fiscal Management, Fundraising & Development
- Serve as the organization’s chief fundraiser; develop and execute a diversified fundraising strategy.
- Prepare grant proposals and reports; cultivate foundation, corporate, and individual donors.
- Plan and execute fundraising events.
- Develop, manage, and monitor the annual budget; ensure sound fiscal systems and controls.
- Build strategic partnerships and expand in-kind resources.
Program & Team Leadership
- Recruit and develop a high-performing team of staff and volunteers.
- Ensure high-quality academic, SEL, mentoring, and enrichment programming.
- Build strong relationships with youth, families, and school partners.
- Lead program evaluation and continuous improvement processes.
- Allocate resources strategically to maximize student impact.
Publicity & Community Relations
- Establishes and maintains sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with partner school(s), community groups, and organizations that can contribute to IHDF’s program,
- Oversee development of newsletters, impact reports, website updates, and social media.
- Serve as spokesperson to build community awareness and strengthen local visibility.
Candidate Profile
The ideal Executive Director is an inspiring, values-driven, relationship-centered leader with a deep belief in the potential of all young people—regardless of race, ethnicity, income, or zip code. They embed equity in hiring, culture, and community engagement. This leader engages diverse stakeholders with authenticity and builds trust quickly. They balance big-picture strategy with operational discipline and thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.
A strong communicator and collaborator, the Executive Director connects local needs to IHDF’s national vision. They manage competing priorities, build and motivate teams, and cultivate effective partnerships. They are tenacious, mission-driven, and deeply committed to creating equitable opportunities and exceptional outcomes for students.
Key Competencies
Passion for the Mission
Belief in IHDF’s model, history, and impact. Demonstrates empathy, integrity, and a commitment to educational equity.
Development & Fundraising Expertise
Proven success in donor cultivation, fundraising strategy, and development operations. Able to build and expand IHDF–DC’s fundraising base.
Ambassador & Relationship Builder
Serves as IHDF’s primary public voice; communicates vision and impact confidently. Builds community and inspires others. Fluency in additional languages, especially Spanish, is a strong asset. Invests in staff growth and shared leadership. 2
Strategic & Entrepreneurial Leadership
A big-picture thinker with experience developing and executing organizational strategy. Skilled at financial management, board engagement, and team development. Centers youth and family voice while integrating diverse perspectives into a shared plan.
Reporting Relationships
The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors. Direct reports will include a Program Director, Mentor Coordinator, VISTA and AmeriCorps members, and additional staff and volunteers as the chapter grows.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary range: $90,000–$100,000, depending on qualifications. IHDF offers comprehensive medical and dental benefits and generous PTO, including vacation, sick time, and paid holidays. (FLSA Status: Exempt)
Apply
Send cover letter and resume to: hr@ihaveadreamfoundation.org. Use the subject Line: IHDF-Washington DC ED
IHDF is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and people who identify as LGBTQ+.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person