Application Guide

How to Apply for Development Manager

at Hashomer Hatzair / Camp Shomria

🏢 About Hashomer Hatzair / Camp Shomria

Hashomer Hatzair USA is a historic youth movement with a century-long legacy of fostering progressive Jewish values, social justice, and a deep connection to Israel through year-round programming and Camp Shomria. Working here means joining a passionate, mission-driven community that values activism, education, and the transformative power of Jewish camping. It's a unique opportunity to contribute to an organization that has shaped generations of Jewish youth.

About This Role

As the Development Manager, you will be the driving force behind our fundraising efforts, directly impacting our ability to sustain and expand our programs. You'll lead major gift solicitation, manage donor relationships, and oversee development operations, ensuring we have the resources to continue our mission. This role is pivotal in connecting donors with the impactful work we do at Camp Shomria and beyond.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start by reviewing your CRM for donor touchpoints and sending personalized thank-you notes. Then you could have a virtual meeting with a major donor to share updates on Camp Shomria, followed by drafting a grant proposal. In the afternoon, you might analyze fundraising data to identify lapsed donors, then coordinate with the team to plan an upcoming virtual donor appreciation event.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Hashomer Hatzair / Camp Shomria Is Looking For

  • A seasoned fundraiser with at least 3 years of frontline solicitation experience, specifically in securing major gifts and cultivating new prospects.
  • Tech-savvy with advanced CRM skills (Little Green Light preferred) and a knack for leveraging data to drive fundraising strategies.
  • Deeply familiar with Jewish culture, the Jewish community, and Israel, with a genuine passion for Jewish camping and its life-changing impact on youth.
  • A strategic relationship-builder who thrives on personal communication and enjoys stewarding donors through tailored engagement and events.

📝 Tips for Applying to Hashomer Hatzair / Camp Shomria

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific dollar amounts raised and the number of major gifts you've secured, emphasizing your success as a frontline solicitor.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your experience with CRM systems, especially Little Green Light if you have it, and how you've used data to inform fundraising decisions.

3

Demonstrate your alignment with Hashomer Hatzair's values by referencing progressive Jewish principles, social justice, and your personal connection to Jewish camping or youth movements.

4

Research Camp Shomria and Hashomer Hatzair's programming to speak to how your fundraising expertise can support their specific initiatives, such as scholarships or social justice programs.

5

If you have experience with virtual events or remote donor engagement, highlight that, as this is a remote role and the organization likely relies on digital outreach.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for Jewish youth development and camping, and how your fundraising skills can directly support Camp Shomria's mission.", "Your track record in major gift solicitation, with concrete examples of how you've built relationships and secured significant donations.", 'Your proficiency with development operations, including database management and reporting, and your ability to streamline processes.', 'Your understanding of the Jewish community and your ability to connect with donors on a personal level, respecting their values and philanthropic interests.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore Hashomer Hatzair USA's website and social media to understand their current programs, events, and fundraising campaigns.
  • → Read about Camp Shomria's history, philosophy, and the specific outcomes they aim to achieve for campers.
  • → Learn about the broader Jewish camping movement (e.g., Foundation for Jewish Camp) and how Hashomer Hatzair differentiates itself.
  • → Look into recent news or press releases about Hashomer Hatzair to understand their current priorities and challenges.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you successfully solicited a major gift. What was your approach and what was the outcome?
2 How would you cultivate a new prospect who has no prior relationship with Hashomer Hatzair?
3 Given the remote nature of this role, how would you maintain strong donor relationships without in-person meetings?
4 How familiar are you with Jewish camping and its impact? Can you share why you believe it's important?
5 How would you use Little Green Light or similar CRM software to track donor interactions and identify giving trends?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Hashomer Hatzair or Camp Shomria specifically—it's clear when you haven't done your research.
  • Avoid focusing solely on your administrative skills; this role requires a proven ability to close gifts, so highlight your fundraising results.
  • Don't overlook the importance of Jewish familiarity—even if you're not Jewish, show a deep understanding and respect for Jewish values and community.

📅 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 Hashomer Hatzair / Camp Shomria!

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