Application Guide

How to Apply for Advancement Director, Great Lakes Chapter

at Parkinson's Foundation

🏢 About Parkinson's Foundation

The Parkinson's Foundation is a leading nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson's disease through research and care. Working here means being part of a passionate, global community that drives real change and innovation in the fight against this condition.

About This Role

As Advancement Director for the Great Lakes Chapter, you will lead all fundraising and mission delivery efforts across Ohio and Michigan. This role is impactful because you'll directly grow resources and awareness, enabling the Foundation to fund critical research and provide essential programs and services to those affected by Parkinson's.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start your day by reviewing fundraising metrics and responding to donor emails, then join a virtual meeting with the regional team to align on strategy. Afternoon could involve a phone call with a corporate sponsor or a virtual volunteer training session, followed by planning for an upcoming event. You'll balance strategic planning with hands-on relationship management, all while working from your home office.

🚀 Application Tools

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🎯 Who Parkinson's Foundation Is Looking For

  • Proven track record in nonprofit fundraising leadership, with experience in events, corporate development, and individual giving.
  • Strong strategic and budget management skills, able to develop and execute long-term revenue growth plans.
  • Excellent relationship builder, skilled at cultivating community partnerships, volunteers, and board members.
  • Self-motivated and comfortable working remotely, with the ability to travel within the Great Lakes region as needed.
  • Passionate about the mission of improving care and advancing research for Parkinson's disease.

📝 Tips for Applying to Parkinson's Foundation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific revenue growth achievements (e.g., percentage increases, dollar amounts) from past fundraising roles.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience with the key responsibilities: events, corporate development, individual giving, and volunteer management.

3

Mention any experience working with health-related nonprofits or in the Parkinson's community to show genuine interest.

4

Demonstrate your ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities, as this is a remote role.

5

Research the Parkinson's Foundation's current initiatives and recent achievements, and weave that knowledge into your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your success in achieving fundraising targets and growing revenue in previous roles.', 'Highlight your experience in event planning and execution, especially large-scale fundraising events.', 'Showcase your ability to build and manage relationships with donors, corporate partners, and community leaders.', "Express your commitment to the Foundation's mission and your understanding of the impact of Parkinson's disease on families."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore the Parkinson's Foundation's website, especially their mission, strategic plan, and recent research breakthroughs.
  • → Look into the Foundation's signature events (e.g., Moving Day, Parkinson's Revolution) to understand their fundraising model.
  • → Read about the Great Lakes Chapter's current programs and partnerships in Ohio and Michigan.
  • → Check the Foundation's social media and newsroom for recent announcements and impact stories.
Visit Parkinson's Foundation's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you develop a strategic fundraising plan for the Great Lakes Chapter?
2 Describe a time you successfully managed a major fundraising event – what was your role and the outcome?
3 How do you cultivate and steward corporate partnerships?
4 What strategies would you use to engage volunteers and build a strong board?
5 How do you manage a budget and ensure you meet revenue targets?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't send a generic cover letter – make sure it's tailored to the Parkinson's Foundation and this specific role.
  • Don't overlook the remote aspect – emphasize your experience and skills in working independently and managing virtual teams.
  • Don't focus only on your fundraising experience – also highlight your ability to build relationships and engage volunteers, which are key to this role.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Parkinson's Foundation!

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