Charity Gala Fundraising Strategist

Title: Event Fundraising Strategist (Contract) SUMMARY This is a project-based contractor position supporting Sharefest’s annual fundraising gala. The Event Fundraising Strategist will oversee event execution while owning and growing key revenue streams, including ticket sales, silent/live auctions, and sponsorship alignment. The contractor will collaborate with Sharefest’s team to ensure the event exceeds its revenue goals and delivers a memorable experience. At Sharefest, our core values guide our work: -Building Belonging: We create spaces where individuals feel a sense of community and become part of something bigger than themselves. -Great Collaboration: We invite individuals from all communities to share their experiences, use their talents, and work together to build a better future. -Elevating All: We strive to bring out the best in ourselves and others, consistently seeking opportunities to grow and lift our communities. -Demonstrating Humility: We learn from one another, embrace our flaws, and elevate others as we uncover pathways to growth. We seek contractors who align with these values and bring them to life in their contributions. KEY DELIVERABLES -Event Timeline: Develop and manage a comprehensive event timeline and task list. -Silent Auction Strategy: Create and execute a strategy to grow silent auction revenue, including the solicitation, collection and cataloging of items, with a finalized plan. -Ticket Sales Plan: Develop a plan to increase ticket sales, including progress updates submitted bi-weekly. -Fundraising Collaboration: Align sponsorship packages with gala goals in coordination with the Development Manager. -Event Day Execution: Ensure all logistics related to fundraising activities (silent/live auctions, raffles, paddle raises) are executed seamlessly on October 18, 2025. -Post-Event Revenue Report: Deliver a detailed report summarizing revenue outcomes and providing recommendations for future gala enhancements. RESPONSIBILITIES Revenue Growth -Own and grow gala revenue streams: ticket sales, silent/live auctions, raffle, paddle raise, and other creative opportunities. -Collaborate with the Development Manager to align corporate sponsorship efforts with the gala’s overall fundraising goals. -Work closely with the Communications Manager and Marketing Consultant to ensure promotional efforts support ticket sales and donor engagement. -Fundraising Strategy & Execution -Evaluate historical performance to identify underperforming areas (e.g., silent auction) and implement innovative solutions to maximize ROI. -Develop and package auction items to appeal to high-value donors and maximize revenue potential. -Coordinate with staff, vendors, and volunteers to ensure the fundraising elements of the event align with Sharefest’s brand and mission. Event Leadership -Provide leadership and logistical oversight for the gala, acting as the primary point of contact for planning and execution. -Partner with the Event Production Manager and Marketing Consultant to ensure fundraising activities are seamlessly integrated into the event’s logistics and schedule. -Maintain the Gala Master Task List (MTL) to track progress on revenue-related tasks and goals. -Track responses, ensure event milestones are met. Collaboration & Volunteer Management -Collaborate with the Gala Committee and Development Manager to support revenue-driven activities, such as sponsorship solicitation and auction item procurement. -Recruit, onboard, and manage volunteers, assigning roles that align with event needs. -Train and manage lead volunteers assigned to fundraising stations, ensuring consistent messaging and execution. Post-Event Activities -Document revenue outcomes, lessons learned, and recommendations for future events. -Work with the Development Manager to assess donor engagement and determine next steps for post-event follow-up. -Lead debrief meetings to review event performance and provide actionable recommendations for future events. QUALIFICATIONS -Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising or event management, with a track record of increasing revenue. -Demonstrated success in managing fundraising activities such as ticket sales, sponsorships, and auctions. -Exceptional communication skills, including donor engagement and stakeholder collaboration. -Experience in volunteer management. -Strong analytical skills for evaluating event ROI and identifying growth opportunities. -Ability to work independently as a contractor while maintaining close collaboration with Sharefest staff and stakeholders. -Alignment with Sharefest’s core values: Building Belonging, Elevating All, Demonstrating Humility, and Fostering Collaboration. CONTRACT TERMS Duration: Project-based, covering pre-event preparation, event execution, and post-event follow-up activities. Deliverables: Silent auction strategy, ticket sales plan, event fundraising execution, and post-event revenue report. Availability: Must attend scheduled planning meetings, the day of the gala, and related post-event activities. Compensation: Negotiable based on experience and scope of responsibilities. Physical Requirements: This role may involve standing, walking, bending, and lifting items up to 20+ pounds during event setup and execution. KEY ATTRIBUTES Highly motivated and detail-oriented, with a passion for event planning and community engagement. Results-oriented and strategic thinker. Passionate about event planning and fundraising in the nonprofit sector. Strong collaborator who thrives in dynamic, team-oriented environments. COMPENSATION CAN VARY BASED ON EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE.