Donor Relations Associate

About Harlem Academy

Harlem Academy drives equity of opportunity for promising students, guiding them to thrive at the highest academic levels and one day make a mark on the world. Harlem Academy fills a unique gap in the education reform landscape as the only independent school in Manhattan serving promising, low-income students in grades K-8, propelling them to the top echelons of academic performance and then supporting them on the path to and through college and into careers. The school has been recognized as an innovative model, sharing best practices in education journals, reaching more than 350,000 readers.

Donor Relations Associate

The Donor Relations Associate will work closely with and report directly to the Advancement Director, supporting fundraising initiatives, donor engagement, and advancement operations that contribute to long-term sustainability and growth. This position offers the opportunity to work in a creative environment while honing the administrative and project skills that are key to development. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, flexible, proactive, and resourceful, with strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to professionalism and confidentiality. The Donor Relations Associate is a vital member of the advancement team and shares responsibility for building relationships with external and internal constituents and growing philanthropic support for Harlem Academy.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute appeals, foundation mailings, and other advancement outreach throughout the year.
• Oversee volunteer programs, including corporate and individual opportunities and a weekly mentoring program.
• Process gifts, generate reports, maintain donor records, and ensure all data is accurately captured and up to date.
• Manage the donor stewardship program, ensuring gifts are acknowledged and donors are recognized.
• Conduct donor and prospect research utilizing existing platforms and other relevant resources.
• Play a lead role in engaging the Junior Board, including participation in meetings and sending regular updates regarding opportunities for involvement
• Conduct outreach to prospective and existing donors to encourage financial support and participation in events.
• Generate the annual report donor list.
• Support the planning and execution of advancement-related meetings and events, including coordinating catering, printing name tags and materials, and collaborating with the operations team on room setup.
• Pursue ongoing professional development through organizations such as NYSAIS, NAIS, and CASE.
• Manage office inventory, including supplies and school merchandise.
• Attend on-campus and off-campus events, as necessary.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with students, families, staff, volunteers, donors, and other members of the Harlem Academy community.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Three to five years of experience in fundraising or a related field; independent school experience preferred.
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft Office suite, social media tools, fundraising software and databases required; Raiser’s Edge strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize competing responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain close attention to detail.
• Ability to be flexible and proactive, and to work independently as well as collaboratively.
• Strong judgment, integrity, discretion, and commitment to confidentiality.
• Commitment to teamwork, professionalism, and high-quality work.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal skills.
• Attend required evening and weekend events.
• A regular in-person work schedule during the school year, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Enthusiasm for Harlem Academy’s mission and commitment to educational equity.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for this position is $60,000 to $70,000 based on experience. Harlem Academy offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off; medical, dental, and vision coverage; pre-tax transit and dependent care accounts; a 401(k) retirement plan; and professional development opportunities.

Apply

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, with a start date as soon as possible. Interested candidates should send their cover letter and resume to Elizabeth Bixenman, Advancement Director, at [email protected].

Equal Opportunity Employer

Harlem Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, national origin or ancestry, veteran's status, sexual orientation, or any non-job-related physical or mental disability. We welcome candidates who will contribute to our diversity.