Job Description

Job Title: Development Associate – Fundraising Events

Location: San Diego, CA - Hybrid Position

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary: $55,000 – $70,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Reports to: Director of Development

About Shelter to Soldier:

Shelter to Soldier® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in San Diego, California. We are dedicated to rescuing shelter dogs and training them to become psychiatric service dogs for post-9/11 combat veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and/or Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Our mission saves two lives at a time: the life of a veteran and the life of a dog in need.

Position Summary:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly organized  Development Associate – Fundraising Events to join our passionate team. This role is ideal for a development professional with  at least 2 years of hands-on experience planning and executing successful fundraising events . You’ll play a vital role in supporting our life-saving mission by helping to raise critical funds and increase community engagement through high-impact events and donor initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and manage fundraising events including our annual gala, charity golf tournament, 5K Run, community outreach events, and third-party fundraisers.
• Develop event strategies and timelines in collaboration with the Director of Development.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with event sponsors, donors, volunteers, vendors, and community partners.
• Handle event logistics: venue booking, permits, vendor coordination, RSVP management, auction setup, event marketing, and on-site execution.
• Create event marketing collateral in coordination with our communications team (e.g., invitations, signage, social media content).
• Maintain accurate donor and sponsor records using our CRM system (e.g., Salesforce, Bloomerang, or similar).
• Analyze post-event results and assist with generating performance reports and sponsor fulfillment summaries.
• Support other development activities, including donor communications, campaigns, and stewardship activities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in nonprofit development, with a strong focus on  event planning and execution .
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with efficiency and grace under pressure.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with donor CRM systems and event management tools.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for event support.
• Commitment to Shelter to Soldier’s mission and a passion for helping both veterans and animals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with fundraising platforms (e.g., Classy, Bloomerang etc).
• Background in donor stewardship or corporate sponsorship development.
• Experience in social media and/or basic graphic design (e.g., Canva) is a plus.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to work with a mission-driven team making a tangible impact.
• Hybrid work schedule and supportive team culture.
• Health and dental insurance options.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, a brief cover letter, and one example of a fundraising event you helped plan or manage (a short description or event portfolio) to  [email protected] . Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

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