Director of External Relations & Fundraising

Youth Crossroads, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/dental coverage

Vacation and sick leave

Job summary

Youth Crossroads, Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Director of External Affairs to strengthen external relationships, lead fundraising efforts, and elevate visibility with donors, foundations, and community partners.

You will work with the Executive Director and Board to expand contributed revenue and align strategies with the three‑year plan. The role focuses on building donor relationships, expanding partnerships, and communicating impact; it requires strategic thinking, excellent communication,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or relevant professional certification preferred.
• Five to seven years of nonprofit fundraising, external relations or related experience.
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate and sustain donor, corporate or foundation relationships.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience supporting fundraising initiatives and donor stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Align external engagement and fundraising priorities with organizational goals and strategic plan.
• Develop and implement annual fundraising plans including major gifts and corporate partnerships.
• Manage donor relationships and cultivate a robust donor pipeline.
• Represent the organization at events and with community partners to raise visibility.
• Collaborate with leadership to communicate impact and engage Board in fundraising.

Skills

Fundraising

External relations

Donor stewardship

Communications

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Youth Crossroads, Inc. in Chicago is seeking a Director of External Affairs to strengthen external relationships, lead fundraising efforts, and elevate visibility with donors, foundations, and community partners.

You will work with the Executive Director and Board to expand contributed revenue and align strategies with the three‑year plan. The role focuses on building donor relationships, expanding partnerships, and communicating impact; it requires strategic thinking, excellent communication,