Foundation Event Lead: Fundraising & Donor Engagement

Mary Free Bed; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 67,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI, is seeking an Event Specialist to lead planning, execution, and evaluation of Foundation fundraising and donor engagement activities. You will own two signature events and work closely with the Events & Corporate Giving team to advance the foundation’s mission.

The role emphasizes project management, vendor coordination, and accurate records, with opportunities to collaborate on stewardship and broader event initiatives across the

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, nonprofit management, hospitality or event management, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of professional event planning experience, preferably in a nonprofit, healthcare, fundraising, hospitality, or corporate event environment.
• Familiarity with the West Michigan community.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proven ability to manage event budgets responsibly and continuously improve event ROI.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with donors, corporate partners, internal stakeholders, and vendors.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work evenings/weekends.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of assigned Foundation fundraising and donor engagement events, including ownership of two signature events.
• Serve as project manager for assigned events, maintaining timelines, budgets, project plans, and event documentation.
• Partner with Foundation colleagues to support fundraising, stewardship, donor recognition, and community events.
• Provide logistical and day-of support for events led by other team members.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, vendors, volunteers, and community partners to achieve event goals.
• Coordinate event logistics, including registration, guest communications, seating, accessibility accommodations, volunteers, and materials.

Skills

Event planning

Budget management

Project management

Donor relations

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, nonprofit management, hospitality or event management, or a related field

Tools

Raiser’s Edge

Job description

Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI, is seeking an Event Specialist to lead planning, execution, and evaluation of Foundation fundraising and donor engagement activities. You will own two signature events and work closely with the Events & Corporate Giving team to advance the foundation’s mission.

The role emphasizes project management, vendor coordination, and accurate records, with opportunities to collaborate on stewardship and broader event initiatives across the