Community Engagement

Title: Fundraising Planning Expert

Start Date: May 23, 2022

Organization: MFS Social Purpose Works

Location: Virtual and in person (optional)

Social Purpose Works is the latest innovative program offering of Metropolitan Family Service (MFS), a Portland Oregon social service agency since 1950. MFS Social Purpose Works recruits pro bono (volunteer) professionals for nonprofit project-based opportunities in Oregon and SW Washington. Social Purpose Works is recruiting a Fundraising Expert for Portland Botanical Gardens (PBG). PBG is an all-volunteer group of plant professionals and educators with the mission of establishing a new botanical garden both internationally renowned and for the citizens of the Portland metro area. PBG sees this botanical garden as much more than a collection of plants for plant enthusiasts and research. It will be an open space for recreation, learning, calm, healing and fun. The garden will be easily accessed by public transportation and located in an area of Portland which is deficient in park land or other natural resources. They are in the process of identifying suitable land. PBG will be a leader in horticultural training, climate change research, environmental justice and equity. Their multi-climate conservatory and bioregional outdoor collections will provide a unique, immersive, botanical experience to visitors from around the world. PBG’s contribution to Portland’s green landscape will be a place to celebrate culture and keep spaces financially, spatially, and linguistically accessible to all. Project Description: PBG is in the process of identifying philanthropic goals. They have the opportunity to develop a robust, diversified development plan to further their mission. PBG is looking for a philanthropic professional to help identify priorities and draft a working document. This project will build the framework for building both bricks and mortar and ongoing organizational support. While they currently rely on volunteers, donations and small grants, they need to develop a foundation for PBG’s financial security. Key Deliverables: -Review current activities, resources and challenges, and work with staff to develop fundraising goals -Identify fundraising initiatives including donor acquisition/individual giving, donor management, corporate sponsorship, engaging events, grants, online giving strategies, etc. and staff/board/time/financial resources required. -Create and document a 3-5 year fundraising plan and calendar with key milestones with benchmarks of expected timelines and fundraising goals -Advise on building board member support and activity in fundraising efforts Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Required: -Fundraising: Major gift capacity donor identification and acquisition -Database: CRM software knowledge and experience -Project Management: At least five years’ experience managing multiple complex projects with multiple funding -Collaboration: Experience working collaboratively with government, education, BIPOC communities, businesses, and foundations. -DEI: Experience working in organizations that value racial equity and diversity and inclusion. -Leadership and Coaching: Leading and motivating teams; creating a philanthropic vision for PBG’s Board. Education/Experience: At least 10-years proven success in development and major capital campaigns; experience identifying potential grant, government, or foundation funding sources; and familiarity with Portland’s cultural and philanthropic communities. A passion for plants, parks and gardens and familiarity with regional and national garden and parks organizations a plus. Time commitment: Medium project (80-100 hours) with completion by late summer 2022. Hours are flexible with your schedule. Ideally, they would like to have a draft fundraising plan by August 1, 2022 and a final plan by September 15, 2022. Resources: The Executive Director is the project champion. Selected candidate must have their own technology. Work Environment/Location: Work can be accomplished remotely via Zoom meetings, and socially distanced in-person meetings when necessary. We hold periodic team and Board meetings (following current Covid protocols) at a nursery on Sauvie Island. To view the full project description and steps to express interest, visit https://www.socialpurpose.works/opportunity/a0C5G00000r0JAVUA2/fundraising-plan Learn more about plans for Portland Botanical Gardens in this video hosted by the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon: https://youtu.be/KaG9henZpS8