Application Guide
How to Apply for Development Manager, New York Chapter
at Parkinson's Foundation
๐ข About Parkinson's Foundation
The Parkinson's Foundation is a leading nonprofit dedicated to improving care for people with Parkinsonโs disease and advancing research toward a cure. Its mission-driven culture, global community engagement, and focus on peer-to-peer events like Moving Day make it a uniquely rewarding place to work for those passionate about making a tangible difference.
About This Role
As the Development Manager for the New York Chapter, you will lead signature peer-to-peer fundraising events (Moving Day, Parkinson's Revolution) to drive revenue and expand community reach. This role is pivotal in cultivating corporate sponsorships, managing volunteers, and strengthening the Foundationโs presence across New York state, directly impacting the lives of those affected by Parkinsonโs.
๐ก A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with reviewing event fundraising progress and updating the CRM with new sponsor contacts. Midday, you could lead a virtual meeting with a corporate partner to discuss sponsorship benefits, followed by a phone call with a volunteer committee chair. Afternoons often involve preparing a community presentation for a local support group and coordinating logistics for an upcoming Parkinson's Revolution training ride.
๐ Application Tools
๐ฏ Who Parkinson's Foundation Is Looking For
- A self-starter with 4+ years of nonprofit fundraising or event management experience, ideally with peer-to-peer events like walks or cycling fundraisers.
- Proven track record in securing corporate sponsorships and managing high-level volunteer relationships to achieve revenue goals.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented, proficient in Raiser's Edge or similar CRM, and comfortable with data-driven goal tracking.
- Excellent communicator who can deliver compelling community presentations and inspire action among diverse stakeholders.
๐ Tips for Applying to Parkinson's Foundation
Tailor your resume to highlight specific peer-to-peer event revenue growth and corporate partnership successes, quantifying results where possible.
In your cover letter, mention your familiarity with Parkinson's Foundation events (Moving Day, Parkinson's Revolution) and how your experience aligns with their mission.
Showcase your ability to work remotely and autonomously by providing examples of self-managed projects with measurable outcomes.
Demonstrate your proficiency with Raiser's Edge by mentioning any database management or reporting tasks you've handled.
Research the Foundation's current initiatives and mention a specific program or event that excites you to show genuine interest.
โ๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Emphasize your experience leading peer-to-peer fundraising events and how you've driven revenue growth.", 'Highlight your success in cultivating corporate sponsorships and building lasting community partnerships.', "Show your passion for the Parkinson's cause and connection to the Foundation's mission of improving care and finding a cure.", 'Illustrate your ability to manage volunteers and coordinate events with flexibility for travel and varied hours.']
Generate Cover Letter โ๐ Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- โ Review the Parkinson's Foundation's annual report to understand their revenue mix and recent achievements.
- โ Familiarize yourself with the history and impact of Moving Day and Parkinson's Revolution events in New York.
- โ Look into the Foundation's current strategic plan and any new initiatives for community engagement.
- โ Research key corporate partners and sponsors of the New York Chapter to understand existing relationships.
๐ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
โ ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference the Foundation's specific events or mission.
- Failing to provide quantifiable results from past fundraising or event experience.
- Overlooking the travel and flexible hours requirement; be upfront about your availability.
๐ 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Parkinson's Foundation!