Development Associate

Full time, year-round

About UFI

UFI is a mission-driven organization that strives to develop and advance urban farming, engage individuals in growing and harvesting, and build a healthy community. Our programs are community-centered and provide opportunities for all to experience and learn from urban agriculture.  From farm training programs, engagement with youth and seniors to food delivery and education, UFI supports the diverse community in which it thrives.  Located in Greater Boston, our employees represent the wonderful and diverse city we live in.  We are committed to considering candidates who represent and celebrate the rich multicultural community in which we serve. 

UFI is seeking a Development Associate as a key member of UFI’s external relations team to help strengthen the organization’s management of donor information systems toward strengthened stewardship practices and donor relationships.  The ideal candidate is an energetic self-starter with a passion for UFI’s mission who also works well as part of a team, applies analytical thinking to every task, and can manage multiple projects while working effectively in a fast-paced environment.  The salary range is $26.00 per hour - $29.00 per hour based on experience and background. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Data Management & Information Systems

  • Manage and execute all aspects of gift entry, including but not limited to:

    • Collect and enter gifts daily into the Little Green Light database and ensure the established protocols for gift entry are followed

    • Prepare bank deposits in partnership with your manager

    • Work with your manager to ensure accurate accounting and gift reconciliation on a monthly basis

  • Utilize weekly gift entry and monthly year-to-date tracking mechanisms to capture critical data for donor reporting and analysis purposes

  • Produce weekly gift entry reports, year-to-date monthly reports, and other donor reports as requested/required, based on established protocols

  • Produce lists for all development and marketing mailings and appeals

  • Ensure Constant Contact is refreshed with donor data monthly

  • Oversee the management of the hard and electronic filing systems and ensure that all gift correspondence is appropriately maintained

  • Input updates to donor information as requested and directed

  • Assist with data tracking and analysis

  • Assist with donor prospect research

  • Monitor and maintain a Database Policy and Procedure Manual, including entry and coding processes. Make recommendations for changes/updates as appropriate

Gift Acknowledgement & Donor Relations

  • Execute and manage UFI’s donor acknowledgment process

    • Send thank you emails within 48 hours of gift receipt

    • Prepare weekly gift thank you and acknowledgment letters for snail mailing

    • Support the preparation of President and CEO handwritten notes for all gifts and track mailing of handwritten notes

  • Respond to donor inquiries as they arise

  • Produce accurate donor giving lists for recognition in the Annual Report and on the website as directed

  • Prepare specialized donor correspondence beyond gift acknowledgements as needed

Administrative Support & Other Responsibilities

  • Support all donor visits and special donor engagement initiatives, eg. Lunch and Learns

  • Maintain Inventory of UFI stationery, general office supplies, & UFI swag/gift supplies

  • Help supervise periodic department interns and volunteers

  • Partner with the Marketing, Events, and Membership Manager on the planning and execution of all donor-related cultivation and engagement events

  • Support Deputy Executive Director with the management of Board meetings and board correspondence

  • Perform other reasonable duties as requested by manager

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree preferred and relevant experience required

  • Excellent communication skills

  • Experience with fundraising software or similar databases strongly preferred

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage details across multiple projects, and consistently meet deadlines

  • Proficient in MS Office and Teams is required; ability to quickly become proficient with other software programs including databases

  • Excellent research, writing and critical thinking skills, with the ability to comprehend and synthesize information across multiple sources

  • Able to work evenings and weekends as needed

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@urbanfarminginstitute.org.  

 

You may also mail a resume to: 

Urban Farming Institute

Attention: Hiring Manager 

487 Norfolk Street 

Mattapan, MA 02126 

 

UFI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.