Application Guide

How to Apply for Associate Development Director

at Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism

🏢 About Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism

BLUU is a unique, Black-led spiritual community that centers Black liberation within Unitarian Universalism. Working here means contributing to a movement that combines faith, social justice, and community organizing in a remote, values-driven environment.

About This Role

As Associate Development Director, you will drive fundraising strategy to sustain BLUU’s programs—worship, spiritual care, organizing, and youth ministry. Your work directly expands Black power and justice-making, making this role both impactful and mission-critical.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start the day reviewing donor analytics in your CRM, then draft a grant proposal or edit a donor appeal. Afternoon could involve a virtual meeting with the team to plan an upcoming fundraising event, followed by personal calls to major donors to cultivate relationships.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism Is Looking For

  • 5+ years in fundraising with a track record of major gifts and donor cultivation, preferably in a faith-based or social justice organization.
  • Deep familiarity with Unitarian Universalist practices and commitment to Black liberation theology.
  • Strong CRM skills (e.g., Salesforce, EveryAction) and experience with Google Workspace in a remote setting.
  • Excellent writing and copy editing skills for donor appeals, grants, and reports; ability to plan and execute fundraising events.

📝 Tips for Applying to Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism

1

Highlight any experience raising funds for BIPOC-led or social justice organizations, especially within religious or spiritual contexts.

2

Demonstrate knowledge of BLUU’s mission and programs by referencing specific initiatives like worship series or youth ministry in your cover letter.

3

Showcase remote work experience and proficiency with virtual fundraising tools (e.g., Zoom events, online donation platforms).

4

Quantify your fundraising success: mention dollar amounts raised, number of major donors cultivated, and grant dollars secured.

5

Tailor your resume to emphasize strategic planning, donor stewardship, and database management over generic fundraising duties.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your alignment with BLUU’s mission and your personal commitment to Black liberation and UU values.', 'Specific examples of major gift solicitations and donor cultivation strategies you’ve led.', 'Experience with grant writing and reporting, including any success with foundation or government grants.', 'Your ability to work independently in a remote, small-team environment and manage multiple fundraising streams.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read BLUU’s website thoroughly, especially the 'Our Work' and 'Get Involved' sections to understand current programs.
  • → Review BLUU’s recent annual reports or financial statements to understand fundraising history and donor base.
  • → Familiarize yourself with Unitarian Universalist principles, particularly the commitments to racial justice and equity.
  • → Look into BLUU’s social media and news coverage to see how they communicate their mission and engage supporters.
Visit Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you develop a major gifts program for a small, mission-driven organization?
2 Describe your experience with donor databases: which CRMs have you used, and how do you ensure data integrity?
3 What strategies would you use to engage Black UUs and liberatory-minded donors?
4 How do you balance annual giving, major gifts, and grants in a comprehensive fundraising plan?
5 Tell us about a time you planned a fundraising event on a limited budget—what was the outcome?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn’t mention BLUU or its specific mission—personalization is key.
  • Overlooking the remote nature of the role; emphasize your self-discipline and communication skills for virtual work.
  • Failing to articulate your understanding of Unitarian Universalism and its connection to Black liberation.

📅 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 Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism!

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