Application Guide

How to Apply for Fundraising & Development Consultant

at DownSyndrome Achieves

🏢 About DownSyndrome Achieves

DownSyndrome Achieves operates the DSA Biobank in partnership with Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, a unique resource that has directly enabled NIH research awards. This small but impactful organization offers the chance to make a tangible difference in Down syndrome research and the lives of individuals with Down syndrome.

About This Role

As Fundraising & Development Consultant, you will lead the annual campaign, write and win grants, build donor relationships, and secure corporate sponsors—all while working remotely. Your efforts will directly fund cutting-edge research and support the Down syndrome community.

💡 A Day in the Life

Start the day by reviewing grant deadlines and drafting proposals for a research foundation. Mid-morning, have a virtual coffee meeting with a potential major donor. Afternoon is spent analyzing the annual campaign progress and reaching out to corporate sponsors for renewal. End the day by updating the donor database and planning next week's outreach.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who DownSyndrome Achieves Is Looking For

  • 5-8+ years of nonprofit development experience, specifically with grant writing and individual giving
  • Proven track record of winning private and research-focused foundation grants (e.g., NIH, private foundations)
  • Comfortable working independently in a lean, remote environment with minimal supervision
  • Deep personal or professional connection to the mission of supporting individuals with Down syndrome

📝 Tips for Applying to DownSyndrome Achieves

1

In your resume, highlight specific grants you've won with dollar amounts and the foundation names.

2

Mention any experience with biobanks, medical research, or partnerships with academic medical centers.

3

Show how you've managed a portfolio of donors and increased giving over time, especially for a small organization.

4

Include a brief note in your cover letter about why you're passionate about Down syndrome research.

5

Tailor your application to emphasize your ability to work remotely and manage multiple fundraising streams simultaneously.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your connection to the mission and understanding of the DSA Biobank's significance", 'Quantifiable success in grant writing (e.g., number of grants won, total dollars raised)', 'Experience building donor relationships from scratch, especially major gifts', 'Ability to work independently and drive results in a lean, remote environment']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore the DSA Biobank website and understand its role in Down syndrome research.
  • → Read about Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center's Down syndrome research programs.
  • → Look up recent NIH awards that used DSA Biobank specimens to understand the impact.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key Down syndrome advocacy organizations and potential funding partners.
Visit DownSyndrome Achieves's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through how you would plan and execute the annual campaign to reach the $204,500 goal.
2 Describe a time you cultivated a major gift donor from initial contact to a significant gift.
3 How would you approach writing a research-focused grant for a biobank?
4 What strategies would you use to secure corporate sponsors for a niche cause like Down syndrome research?
5 How do you stay motivated and productive when working remotely with limited team support?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Sending a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Down syndrome or the biobank.
  • Overemphasizing large nonprofit experience without showing adaptability to a lean environment.
  • Failing to provide specific examples of grant writing success with dollar amounts and outcomes.

📅 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 DownSyndrome Achieves!

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