Application Guide
How to Apply for Executive Director, American Discovery Trail Society
at American Discovery Trail Society
🏢 About American Discovery Trail Society
The American Discovery Trail Society is a unique, volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to creating and maintaining a coast-to-coast nonmotorized trail across the United States. Working here means joining a passionate community of outdoor enthusiasts and contributing to a legacy of connecting people with nature and history. If you love hiking and want to make a tangible impact on America's trail infrastructure, this is your chance.
About This Role
As Executive Director, you will lead fundraising efforts, expand the society's reach, and manage a lean team of volunteers and board members. Your work will directly support the development and promotion of the American Discovery Trail, ensuring its sustainability and growth. This role is perfect for someone who thrives on building relationships and turning passion for the outdoors into financial and community support.
💡 A Day in the Life
You might start your day by reviewing grant deadlines and drafting a proposal for a foundation, then hop on a video call with a potential corporate partner. After lunch, you could meet with a volunteer committee to plan a trail promotion event, and end the day by posting updates on social media to engage the hiking community. Much of your time will be spent building relationships—whether with donors, board members, or trail enthusiasts—to secure the resources needed to grow the trail.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who American Discovery Trail Society Is Looking For
- A seasoned fundraiser with a proven track record of securing grants from foundations, corporations, and government sources, as well as individual donations.
- An avid hiker or outdoor enthusiast who understands the trail community and can authentically engage volunteers and partners.
- A natural networker who can build partnerships with other trail organizations, local communities, and businesses to increase trail visibility.
- A strategic leader comfortable working with a board of directors and managing remote teams, with strong communication skills to inspire action.
📝 Tips for Applying to American Discovery Trail Society
Highlight specific fundraising achievements (e.g., amount raised, types of grants secured) and how they relate to trail or outdoor projects.
Demonstrate your passion for hiking by mentioning personal experiences on long-distance trails or volunteer work with trail organizations.
Show your ability to work with volunteers by including examples of mobilizing volunteer groups or leading volunteer-driven initiatives.
Tailor your resume to emphasize networking and partnership development, especially with outdoor recreation or conservation groups.
In your cover letter, reference the American Discovery Trail specifically—mention any sections you've hiked or why the coast-to-coast mission resonates with you.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Express genuine enthusiasm for the American Discovery Trail's mission and your personal connection to hiking and the outdoors.", 'Provide concrete examples of fundraising success, especially with diverse revenue streams (corporate, foundation, individual).', "Describe your experience working with volunteers and boards, emphasizing how you've built consensus and driven growth.", 'Highlight your ability to translate event publicity (like the relay) into long-term financial support and community engagement.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore the American Discovery Trail's route and major milestones—know which states it passes through and any recent developments.
- → Review the society's current fundraising programs (e.g., relay event, membership) and think about how you could expand them.
- → Look at the board of directors and their backgrounds to understand the organization's culture and priorities.
- → Read about similar trail organizations (e.g., Pacific Crest Trail Association) to see best practices in fundraising and volunteer management.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on hiking passion without demonstrating fundraising or leadership experience—this role requires both.
- Submitting a generic application that doesn't mention the American Discovery Trail or its specific challenges.
- Underestimating the importance of volunteer management—be ready to discuss how you'll engage a mostly volunteer workforce.
📅 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 American Discovery Trail Society!