Application Guide

How to Apply for Director of Development

at League of Women Voters of Washington

🏢 About League of Women Voters of Washington

The League of Women Voters of Washington is a trusted, nonpartisan civic organization with a 100+ year legacy of empowering voters and defending democracy. Working here means contributing to a mission that ensures every Washington resident has access to accurate election info and a voice in government, all within a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

About This Role

As the Director of Development, you will have the unique opportunity to build LWVWA's first comprehensive fundraising program from the ground up. This part-time, remote role is perfect for a strategic fundraiser who enjoys creating systems and relationships, and its impact will directly fuel the organization's statewide advocacy and voter education efforts.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with local League presidents to understand their fundraising needs, followed by drafting a donor appeal email or building a donor database. You might also be researching prospective major donors, preparing a grant application, or planning a virtual fundraising event—all while collaborating with the executive director and volunteer leaders.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who League of Women Voters of Washington Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a track record of building and executing development strategies (annual funds, major gifts, planned giving, events).
  • Strong relationship-building skills, able to connect with diverse donors, volunteers, and local Leagues across Washington.
  • Self-starter who thrives in a remote, part-time setting and can work independently to establish new processes.
  • Passion for nonpartisan civic engagement and understanding of the League's unique role in democracy (no partisan alignment).

📝 Tips for Applying to League of Women Voters of Washington

1

In your resume and cover letter, explicitly connect your fundraising experience to building programs from scratch—highlight any startup or expansion initiatives.

2

Since the League is nonpartisan, emphasize your ability to work across political lines and your commitment to nonpartisan mission.

3

Research LWVWA's current fundraising efforts (annual appeals, donor base) and propose specific ideas for a comprehensive program in your cover letter or interview.

4

Mention your comfort with remote work and part-time flexibility, and how you would manage time effectively to maximize impact.

5

Showcase any experience with volunteer-led organizations or working with local chapters, as LWVWA has 20 local Leagues.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Express genuine passion for democratic participation and nonpartisan voter education.', 'Highlight your success in designing and implementing development programs, especially in resource-constrained environments.', "Demonstrate understanding of the League's structure (statewide with local Leagues) and how you would collaborate with them.", 'Articulate your strategic vision for diversifying revenue streams beyond annual appeals.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore LWVWA's website, especially their annual reports and recent advocacy priorities, to understand their impact.
  • → Look into the League's history and its role in Washington state elections and voter education.
  • → Review the job description and any available materials about the organization's strategic plan or fundraising goals.
  • → Check the local Leagues' activities to understand how they operate independently and how a state-level development role can support them.
Visit League of Women Voters of Washington's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach building a comprehensive development program with limited resources?
2 Can you describe a time you successfully launched a new fundraising initiative? What was your process?
3 How do you ensure donor communications and fundraising efforts remain nonpartisan?
4 Given the remote and part-time nature, how do you plan to stay connected with local Leagues and volunteers?
5 What strategies would you use to retain and grow LWVWA's existing donor base while attracting new supporters?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't use partisan language or express support for specific candidates/parties—this will immediately disqualify you.
  • Avoid focusing only on fundraising tactics without connecting them to the League's mission and nonpartisan values.
  • Don't underestimate the part-time nature; show you have a realistic plan to achieve significant results within limited hours.

📅 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 League of Women Voters of Washington!

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