Michigan - Major Gifts Officer

Make-A-Wish Foundation; Southfield (MI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization is seeking an energetic Event and Fundraising Specialist for its Southeast Michigan office in Southfield, MI. This full-time position involves leading signature fundraising events like Walk For Wishes, driving revenue growth through participant recruitment, and fostering relationships with sponsors. The ideal candidate must have strong communication skills and thrive in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment. Some statewide travel will be necessary during event season.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in event planning and fundraising.
• Demonstrated ability to drive revenue through various fundraising strategies.
• Comfortable with phone and personal outreach.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support key fundraising events like Walk For Wishes.
• Drive revenue growth through participant recruitment and sponsorship acquisition.
• Support other statewide fundraising initiatives.

Skills

Event management

Fundraising experience

Relationship-building

Strong communication skills

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Job description

President & Chief Operating Officer, University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital

Denise Christy

Community Volunteer

Treasurer

Secretary

Chapter Medical Advisor

At Make-A-Wish, we are more than a great place to work—our work is life-changing. We are an inclusive and diverse group of people who, through a mosaic of backgrounds, thoughts, and experiences, are united in purposeful work. We are fueled and guided by our values—values that are represented in the inspired people we work with and the transformational work we do every day.

We are always on the lookout for great talent who share in our passion. If you are interested in a career or internship with Make-A-Wish, check out our current open positions. Click here to view all our job postings.

Event and Fundraising Specialist:Full Time, Southeast Michigan Office, Southfield, MI

We are seeking an energetic and motivated Event and Fundraising Specialist to lead and support key fundraising events. In this role, you will manage at least two of our signature events, Walk For Wishes and Trailblaze Challenge, while also supporting other statewide fundraising initiatives. You’ll drive revenue growth through participant recruitment, peer-to-peer fundraising coaching, sponsorship acquisition, and exceptional event execution. This role requires frequent phone and personal outreach, strong relationship-building skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment. Some statewide travel is required, particularly during event season. Apply here

Michigan wishes are made possible through corporate sponsorships, special events, foundation grants and individual contributions. However, we do not solicit funds by telephone. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, all contributions are deductible to the extent permitted by law. Our financial statements are audited by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP.

At Make-A-Wish, we take our responsibility for the monies donated to our cause very seriously. Over the last three years Make-A-Wish Michigan, on average, has spent 70% of every dollar on wish granting and related program expenses, 14% of every dollar was spent on management and general costs and 16% was allocated to fundraising. Click here to review our full financial details.

We are proud to be a BBB MichiganAccredited Charity Seal Holder, having met the BBB Standards for Charity Accountability.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Make-A-Wish Michigan is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse culture that supports and reflects the diversity within our community. Our overarching goal is to reach all eligible children, ensure equitable access to our mission and make sure diverse communities throughout the state feel both welcomed and invited to participate. We are engaging community partners and moving forward with intentional strategies to increase awareness about our eligibility requirements, ensure wish equity and remove barriers that could impact access to a wish or the overall wish experience. Wishes truly are transformational, and we want ALL eligible Michigan children to experience the life-changing power of a wish come true. Email us at [e-mail] to get involved.

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Make-A-Wish® Michigan, Southeast Michigan Office

20750 Civic Center Drive
Suite 180
Southfield, MI 48076

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Toll Free

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25 Michigan Street NE
Suite 1200
Grand Rapids, MI 49503