Development Manager, Community Engagement - Midwest Region

CureSearch for Children's Cancer; Iowa (LA); Remote; USD 62,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization dedicated to childhood cancer research seeks a dynamic Manager of Peer-to-Peer Fundraising. In this pivotal role, you will inspire volunteers and lead grassroots fundraising campaigns, making a significant impact on the lives of children facing cancer. This fully remote position offers a collaborative team environment and opportunities for growth. If you are passionate about community engagement and have a proven track record in fundraising, this is your chance to drive meaningful change and help children receive the treatments they deserve.

Benefits

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Generous PTO

Remote Work Perks

401(k) with Employer Match

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in peer-to-peer fundraising or community development.
• Strong relationship-building and coaching skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead fundraising efforts to raise $350,000–$400,000 annually.
• Recruit and coach individual and team fundraisers.

Skills

Peer-to-Peer Fundraising

Community Development

Volunteer Engagement

Relationship Building

Public Speaking

Education

Bachelor's Degree

5+ Years Experience

Tools

Blackbaud

Classy

Job description

Reportsto: Director of Community Engagement
Location: Fully Remote
Pay: $62,000 - $65,000 annually

ABOUT US

Every day, 42 families hear the devastating words, "Your child has cancer." At CureSearch for Children’s Cancer, we’re driving bold, innovative childhood cancer research that gets promising new treatments to kids faster. Our mission is to ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer has a safe and effective treatment option. To help make that happen, we need dynamic fundraisers to lead our grassroots peer-to-peer campaigns and community-based fundraising efforts.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As our Manager of Peer-to-Peer Fundraising, you’ll play a pivotal role in engaging and empowering volunteers to raise critical funds through CureSearch’s signature events, including Ultimate Hike and CureSearch Walks. You’ll be responsible for cultivating relationships, coaching fundraisers, and building community energy around our mission. If you love inspiring people to make a difference, are driven by results, and have a passion for creating meaningful experiences, this role is for you.

This full-time, fully remote, exempt position reports to the Director of Community Engagement and is critical to our Community Engagement. Candidate must reside in the Midwest, ideally near St. Louis, Twin Cities, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois will also be considered. Easy access to a major airport is required.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Lead peer-to-peer fundraising efforts in your region to raise $350,000–$400,000 annually through Ultimate Hike, CureSearch Walks, and DIY fundraisers.
• Recruit, coach, and support individual and team fundraisers to meet and exceed their goals, creating tailored strategies to keep them engaged and inspired.
• Analyze participation and revenue trends to develop data-driven strategies for recruitment, retention, and revenue growth.
• Partner with internal teams to deliver exceptional participant experiences and mission moments across all peer-to-peer programs.
• Provide hands-on, onsite support at key events to ensure successful execution and participant satisfaction.

Volunteer Leadership & Community Engagement

• Identify, recruit, and support high-impact volunteer leaders who will champion peer-to-peer fundraising efforts within their communities.
• Facilitate regular leadership meetings, helping volunteers create action plans and strategies to grow participation and revenue.
• Collaborate with local community boards and event committees to build strong regional networks of fundraisers and advocates.
• Represent CureSearch at community events, driving awareness and sharing our mission to spark new fundraising opportunities.

Corporate & Community Partnerships

• Leverage local networks and fundraising events to secure sponsorships, corporate engagement, and in-kind support.
• Build and maintain relationships with community partners to amplify our reach and increase event participation.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or 5+ years of experience in peer-to-peer fundraising, community development, or volunteer engagement.
• 3+ years of demonstrated success in planning, executing, and growing peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns.
• A proactive self-starter with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong relationship-building and coaching skills to inspire fundraisers and volunteers.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
• Proficiency with CRM and fundraising platforms like Blackbaud, Classy, or similar tools.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings/weekends and travel 15–20% of the time.
• A passion for our mission and ability to connect deeply with supporters and community members.
• A valid driver’s license and ability to lift 25–30 lbs for event setup, as needed.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Salary range: $62,000–$65,000
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and 401(k) with employer match
• Generous PTO including vacation, sick time, summer Fridays, and a full week off between Christmas and New Year’s
• Remote work perks, including home office and phone stipends
• A collaborative and supportive team environment with room for growth

CureSearch for Children’s Cancer is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented communities to apply. Let's work together to end childhood cancer—one bold step at a time.