What are the responsibilities and job description for the Philanthropy and Engagement Manager position at Eastside Academy?
We’re seeking a Philanthropy & Engagement Officer who brings together creativity, strategy, and relational warmth. In this role, you will help fuel the mission of Eastside Academy by strengthening relationships across our donor base (individuals, churches, corporations, and community partners) while shaping how our story is told across digital and physical communication channels. This position is ideal for someone who loves people and loves the craft of communication; someone who can move easily between coffee conversations with donors, designing social media content, collaborating on program stories, and helping execute meaningful fundraising and engagement events. You will play a central role in expanding Eastside Academy’s reach and growing a culture of generosity. Your work will help deepen donor engagement, broaden our community connections, and communicate the life-changing impact of our programs with clarity, authenticity, and creativity. This is more than a fundraising role, it’s an opportunity to infuse hope and vision into every donor touchpoint, strengthen long-term partnerships, and help tell the story of God’s work in the lives of our students.
About Eastside Academy
Education is more than a basic right – it's essential to our ability to thrive. However, life's challenges can often stand in the way through no fault of our own. We believe that every student deserves access to holistic and wraparound care. Eastside Academy was created as a refuge and place of growth for high school students who may not fit the mold of traditional schools. We are different by design. Our unique and innovative approach to student life reaches beyond traditional education models. We provide an individualized education plan and holistic counseling to all students. Through our housing program, we can provide a safe and stable home environment for students with greater needs.
Description
Philanthropy & Engagement Manager
Department: Advancement
Reports To: Head of Advancement
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
About Eastside Academy
Eastside Academy is a Christ-centered, nonprofit high school committed to transforming the lives of youth through education, mentorship, and community. We serve students who have faced significant challenges and provide a place of belonging, hope, and opportunity. Our team is passionate, collaborative, and deeply invested in the mission—and we’re looking for someone who shares that heart.
The Opportunity
We’re seeking a Philanthropy & Engagement Officer who brings together creativity, strategy, and relational warmth. In this role, you will help fuel the mission of Eastside Academy by strengthening relationships across our donor base (individuals, churches, corporations, and community partners) while shaping how our story is told across digital and physical communication channels.
This position is ideal for someone who loves people and loves the craft of communication; someone who can move easily between coffee conversations with donors, designing social media content, collaborating on program stories, and helping execute meaningful fundraising and engagement events.
You will play a central role in expanding Eastside Academy’s reach and growing a culture of generosity. Your work will help deepen donor engagement, broaden our community connections, and communicate the life-changing impact of our programs with clarity, authenticity, and creativity.
This is more than a fundraising role, it’s an opportunity to infuse hope and vision into every donor touchpoint, strengthen long-term partnerships, and help tell the story of God’s work in the lives of our students.
Who You Are
- A mission-aligned follower of Christ with a heart for youth and transformation.
- A strong communicator who can write, design, and speak with clarity and emotional resonance.
- A relationship-builder who enjoys connecting with donors, partners, and community members.
- A creative thinker who sees opportunities for engagement that others might overlook.
- A proactive, organized team player who can manage projects and deadlines with excellence.
- Someone who thrives in collaboration but is confident taking initiative.
Key Responsibilities
Donor & Partner Engagement/ Fundraising
- Establish, cultivate, and steward strong relationships with donors and community partners.
- Execute a donor moves management strategy across donor segments to deepen engagement.
- Represent Eastside Academy in public spaces, including occasional public speaking.
- Craft and make compelling asks for crucial funds to reach and surpass fundraising goals.
Communications & Storytelling
- Collaborate with the Head of Advancement to build and execute a comprehensive communications strategy across social media, email, print, and other platforms.
- Collect stories, data, and program impact from staff to share with donors in compelling ways.
- Maintain a cohesive voice and brand across all external communications.
Events & Donor Experiences
- Design, plan, and execute donor engagement experiences and help coordinate fundraising events that reflect the heart and mission of Eastside Academy while serving as strategic touchpoints for fundraising.
- Support Advancement Team–wide activities such as cultivation events, donor meetings, and fundraising initiatives.
What We’re Looking For
- A mature faith in Christ and a desire to serve through your professional gifts.
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, business development, or a related field preferred.
- 2–5 years of experience in marketing, sales, fundraising, nonprofit program work, or related roles.
- Digital design or creative content experience is a plus.
- Strengths in networking, relationship-building, and donor stewardship.
- Strong writing and communication skills with attention to clarity and audience.
- Confidence and clarity in public speaking.
- Experience gathering and interpreting stories or data to communicate impact.
- Ability to create strategic plans, budgets, KPIs, and project timelines.
- Creative problem-solving mindset with the ability to see—and articulate—possibility.
- Strong project management and organization skills.
- Familiarity with budgeting and financial stewardship.
Bonus Skills (Not Required, But Valued)
- Experience in marketing, sales, or business development.
- Graphic or digital design capabilities.
- Familiarity with CRM systems or donor databases.
- Experience building community networks and/or church partnerships.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a mission that matters—transforming lives through Christ-centered education.
- Work with a passionate, supportive team that values collaboration, creativity, and innovation.
- Opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and creative contribution.
- A flexible, relational work environment where your talents and calling can flourish.
Ready to Apply?
If you feel called to this role and resonate with Eastside Academy’s mission, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter sharing why this opportunity inspires you.
Salary
$75,000 - $82,000 per year
Salary : $75,000 - $82,000