Development Manager

Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm (Ironstone Farm)

Healing with Horsepower

Job Description

We are Ironstone. A dedicated team of compassionate, collaborative, and mission-driven individuals, united by a passion for service, innovation, and the transformative power of equine-assisted programs. We foster a welcoming, inclusive community where every person—rider, volunteer, staff member, and supporter—is valued. At the heart of our work is a commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening connections, and making a lasting impact—one stride at a time.

Position Overview:  The Development Manager plays a vital role in supporting Ironstone Farm’s mission by managing donor relations, and  fundraising initiatives. This position works closely with the Executive Director (ED) to enhance donor engagement, track financial contributions, and support the farm’s long-term sustainability. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about building relationships that support Ironstone Farm’s impact.


Key Responsibilities:
Development & Fundraising:


  • Donor Engagement & Outreach:
    • Work directly with the Executive Director to develop and execute donor outreach strategies.
    • Utilize donor research and prospecting tools to identify new funding opportunities and potential supporters.
    • Prepare donor profiles and background information for the Executive Director and Board of Directors prior to meetings.
    • Assist in crafting personalized donor communications, including acknowledgment letters, impact reports, and appeals.
    • Maintain and update donor records in the fundraising database, ensuring accurate tracking of gifts and interactions.
  • Development Committee & Board Support:
    • Serve as a key member of the Development Committee, Collaborate with ED to prepare for meetings including agendas, financial reports, and donor updates.
    • Support the Board of Directors and fundraising volunteers by providing donor prospect lists and relevant materials for outreach efforts.
    • Track fundraising progress and present updates to the Development Committee


Foundation Stewardship & Grants Support:


  • Work closely with the Grant Writer to build relationships with foundations and corporate funders.
  • Support foundation stewardship efforts, including tracking reporting deadlines and ensuring funders receive timely updates on their impact.
  • Coordinate and organize site visits and donor/funder meetings for the Executive Director, ensuring meaningful engagement opportunities.


Event & Campaign Management:


  • Assist in planning and executing fundraising events, including the annual gala, donor receptions, and special giving campaigns.
  • Support grant research and proposal development to secure funding for Ironstone Farm’s programs.
  • Help coordinate Giving Tuesday, sponsorship outreach, and planned giving initiatives.


Donor & Stakeholder Communications:


  • Develop and execute email marketing campaigns to engage donors, event attendees, and program supporters.
  • Craft compelling email content for fundraising appeals, event invitations, and impact updates.
  • Maintain and manage donor communication calendars to ensure consistent outreach.
  • Support the development of newsletters, social media content, and press materials to highlight Ironstone Farm’s mission and success stories.


Brand & Messaging Support:


  • Ensure all donor-facing materials align with Ironstone Farm’s brand, voice, and mission.
  • Work with program staff to develop participant stories and testimonials for marketing and fundraising materials.
  • Assist in designing fundraising collateral, including brochures, flyers, and donor reports.


Operations & Administration:


  • Maintain up-to-date financial records related to donor contributions and program revenue.
  • Collaborate with the finance team to ensure accurate tracking of fundraising income and program revenue.
  • Identify and implement process improvements to streamline invoicing, donation tracking, and reporting.


Qualifications:


  • At least one year of experience in fundraising, donor relations, nonprofit development
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects.
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
  • Proficiency in donor databases, CRM systems, and basic financial tracking.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Development Committee.


  • Passion for Ironstone Farm’s mission and a commitment to expanding its reach and financial sustainability.