Application Guide

How to Apply for Development Manager, New York 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, care, and community support. Working here means joining a passionate, collaborative team that makes a tangible difference in the lives of millions, with a strong focus on innovation and community engagement.

About This Role

This role is central to the New York Chapter's fundraising efforts, focusing on peer-to-peer events like Moving Day, corporate partnerships, and volunteer development. As a remote position based in Greater Rochester, you'll have the autonomy to drive growth and awareness across the state, directly impacting local Parkinson's communities.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with checking emails and reviewing fundraising progress, then you might have virtual meetings with corporate partners or volunteers to discuss event logistics. Afternoons could involve developing sponsorship proposals, updating donor databases, or planning outreach activities for the upcoming Moving Day event. You'll also spend time researching potential new partners and coordinating with the chapter team to ensure alignment on goals.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Parkinson's Foundation Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, particularly with peer-to-peer events and corporate development, with a track record of meeting or exceeding goals.
  • Excellent relationship-building skills, able to cultivate and steward volunteers, sponsors, and corporate partners.
  • Self-motivated and organized, comfortable working remotely and managing multiple priorities independently.
  • Familiarity with the Greater Rochester area and the broader New York community, with a passion for the Parkinson's cause.

📝 Tips for Applying to Parkinson's Foundation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific fundraising results (e.g., dollars raised, event growth) and your experience with volunteer management.

2

In your cover letter, mention 'Moving Day' by name and explain how you would leverage it to expand the chapter's reach.

3

Research the Parkinson's Foundation's current strategic plan and recent initiatives to demonstrate your alignment with their mission.

4

Since the role is remote but based in Rochester, emphasize your local connections and ability to network in that region.

5

Highlight any experience with CRM software (e.g., Blackbaud, Salesforce) and virtual event platforms, as these are crucial for remote fundraising.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express genuine passion for the Parkinson's community and the foundation's mission.", 'Detail your specific experience with peer-to-peer fundraising events and corporate partnerships, quantifying your achievements.', 'Explain your connection to the Greater Rochester area and how you can tap into local networks.', "Share a brief example of how you've successfully engaged volunteers or sponsors in the past."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore the Parkinson's Foundation's website, especially the Moving Day pages and their annual report.
  • → Look up the foundation's recent news and press releases to understand current priorities and achievements.
  • → Check the foundation's social media channels to see how they engage with the community and promote events.
  • → Research the Greater Rochester area's philanthropic landscape, including major corporations and community leaders who might be potential partners.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with planning and executing a peer-to-peer fundraising event. What was your role and what were the results?
2 How would you approach cultivating corporate sponsorships in the Rochester area for Moving Day?
3 Tell us about a time you managed a difficult volunteer or donor relationship. How did you handle it?
4 Given the remote nature of this role, how do you stay motivated and organized while working independently?
5 What strategies would you use to grow the New York Chapter's fundraising beyond Moving Day?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter—make sure it's clearly tailored to the Parkinson's Foundation and this specific role.
  • Avoid focusing only on your own fundraising goals without showing how you collaborate with volunteers and other stakeholders.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of local knowledge—failing to mention your connection to Rochester or New York could be a red flag.

📅 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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