Launch a Career as a Fundraising and Development Professional
Nonprofit organizations are crucial to society, impacting a wide range of people daily. These organizations act as advocates for social justice, addressing the needs of marginalized groups by raising awareness, conducting research, and lobbying for policy changes. The efforts of nonprofit organizations, including providing vital services and support to communities, aim to create a more equitable society that promotes equal opportunities for all.
As the need for assistance from nonprofit organizations surges, fundraising professionals with advanced degrees are in demand to head these charitable organizations and fill other fundraising jobs. Those interested in becoming a fundraising and development professional or donor relations director can launch their career through the M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Here, we detail the significance of development professionals for charitable organizations and highlight the program available at Saint Mary’s.
The Role of a Fundraising and Development Professional
The need for services addressing homelessness, hunger,, social justice, environmental sustainability, and healthcare is growing, making the nonprofit sector the third-fastest growing sector of the U.S. economy. Community development organizations and not-for-profit organizations rely heavily on fundraising and contributions from donors to operate and expand their offerings. Therefore, fundraising and development professionals are vital team members.
Fundraising and development professionals are essential for ensuring the financial stability and growth of nonprofit organizations so they can continue providing crucial services. The primary responsibility of the role is to secure funds through various channels, such as individual donations, corporate sponsorships, grants, and special events. Professional fundraisers and community developers are also responsible for fostering long-term relationships with donors and stakeholders.
In addition to securing monetary resources and financial support, fundraising and development professionals help shape a nonprofit’s strategic direction for raising funds. They may be tasked with identifying new opportunities and overseeing campaigns, which align with the nonprofit organization’s mission and goals. Other responsibilities of a fundraising and development professional can include:
- Maintaining communication with current and potential donors
- Informing supporters about the impact their contributions are making
- Tracking fundraising progress by analyzing key metrics to influence future strategies
- Working closely with leadership to improve fundraising performance
Reasons to Pursue Fundraising Jobs
Pursuing a career in the nonprofit sector can be personally and professionally rewarding. Individuals who raise funds for an organization have the unique opportunity to contribute directly to a cause they are passionate about. This can include supporting education, healthcare, environmental conservation, social justice, or another vital cause.
Additional reasons fundraising is an attractive career choice include:
Diverse Professional Opportunities
The nonprofit sector offers interested individuals a wide range of potential roles, including donor relations, grant writing, event planning, and major gifts management. A nonprofit organization’s diverse funding base allows professionals to specialize in an area that matches their strengths and interests.
Skill Development
Being a fundraising and development professional demands a blend of skills, such as communications, project management, data analysis, and financial stewardship. These transferable skills can open doors to other leadership roles or management positions, both in the nonprofit field and beyond.
Flexibility
Many charitable organizations offer flexible work environments for their fundraising and development professionals, including fully remote or hybrid options. Additionally, the nonprofit sector provides individuals with several opportunities for professional development through certifications and networking.
Earning Potential
Individuals occupying the role of fundraising and development professional can earn competitive salaries, especially as they gain experience and take on higher-level roles. The median annual wage for fundraisers is $64,160, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earning potential for nonprofit professionals varies depending on the specific role, organization size, location, and level of experience. The potential for high earnings makes fundraising a financially attractive career choice, in addition to the personal fulfillment it offers.
Earning a Philanthropy Degree at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Enriched by the Lasallian Catholic heritage, our master’s degree program in philanthropy and development follows our mission of empowering learners to achieve ethical lives of service and leadership. The 15-month online and residency program is designed to deepen students’ understanding of the nonprofit sector by covering a wide range of topics. They include:
- Development operations
- Organizational readiness
- Successful development planning
- Donor relations and stewardship
- Managing major gift programs and capital campaigns
The outstanding M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program at Saint Mary’s is Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)-approved. It is taught by practicing professionals who are experts in their fields, with several of the instructors holding the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive credential, the highest accreditation in the fundraising profession.
Students will have the opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience through the program’s two-week summer residencies on our Winona campus. This allows prospective fundraising and development professionals to engage and network with faculty and peers while encouraging professional growth.
Begin Your Fundraising Career Journey Today
Do you wish to pursue fundraising and donor relations jobs to make a meaningful impact on a cause you’re passionate about? Begin your journey by enrolling in the master’s degree program in philanthropy and development offered at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Our admissions team can answer any questions you have about the program. If you’re ready to take the next steps, request more information to learn more.
