The mission of the Max Higbee Center is to provide community-based recreation programs for youth and adults with developmental disabilities. Our enriching activities promote the social, physical, emotional, and cognitive growth and development of our members. By engaging in MHC programs and activities, our members also achieve greater independence in their lives and increased involvement in the community.
The Development Director serves as the chief fundraising officer and is responsible for effectively leading the implementation of Max Higbee Centers' Development Plan. The Development Director represents the organization in the community and under the general guidance of the Executive Director, oversees all donor development activities, including communication, grant and funding proposals, and supervising fundraising staff. The Development Director’s work is an essential part of the to the Center's ongoing work to provide robust access to adaptive and accessible recreational opportunities for teens and adults with developmental disabilities in Whatcom County, WA
Reports to: Executive Director
Compensation: This is a director level position with pay of $33 - $36 per hour. Generous paid time off is provided per Max Higbee Center’s PTO Policy.
Expected Hours: An average of 38 hours per week. The schedule is flexible, with some evenings and weekends required to support fundraising events and activities.
Responsibilities include,
Fundraising:
Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan including major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, planned giving, and special events.
Work closely with the Board of Directors and Executive Director to develop fundraising goals, strategies, and milestones.
Collaborate with the Super Max Advisory Board as requested.
Identify and cultivate major gift prospects, as well as corporate and foundation donors.
Support the development and execution of effective donor communications and marketing materials to enhance donor engagement.
Build meaningful and strategic relationships with major donors and private foundations.
Lead grant writing efforts, overseeing grant contracts and reporting.
Track potential and current donor information with integrity using the agency database.
Use qualitative and quantitative data to inform decision-making.
Oversee and ensure the successful planning and execution of all external-facing events.
In collaboration with the Executive Director, identify and participate in ongoing professional development opportunities.
Human Resources and Administration:
Supervise and lead a small fundraising team, providing ongoing guidance, training, and support.
Comply with all laws governing workplace safety and human resources.
Provide supervision for staff, ensuring that the team members are evaluated, supervised, and receive appropriate professional development.
Follow all relevant policies and procedures are current and clearly communicated to staff.
Actively promote and lead by example, equity principles, and values within the organization.
Required Qualifications:
Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, or related experience, with a proven track record of success in major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, and special events.
Experience and demonstrated commitment to building inclusive communities, and familiarity with the complex issues that the developmental disability population faces.
Senior leadership experience with supervisory responsibilities, with experience managing a team of fundraising professionals.
Strong understanding of nonprofit operations and management.
Experience managing a budget.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write compelling donor communications and marketing materials.
Excels in building meaningful and long-lasting relationships.
Evidence of collaborative decision making.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, Board members, and volunteers.
Experience with fundraising software and donor databases.
A commitment to the mission and values of our organization.
Must pass a background check.
Accommodation:
If you are applying for a job or internship at Max Higbee Center and have a disability and need accommodation for the application process or job duties, please contact the MHC Program Director at (360) 398-6669.
Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity
Max Higbee Center does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, genetic information, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services, and activities, or in employment. All inquiries regarding compliance with access, equal opportunity, and/or grievance procedures should be directed to the Program Director at (360) 398-6669.
To Apply:
Submit the following materials
- Statement of interest or brief cover letter indicating your qualifications and experience
- Resume
- References (at least 2 professional references)
Applications will be reviewed and interviews held on an ongoing basis until filled. The priority deadline for applications is May 17, 2026.
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