Application guide

How to apply for Fundraising Events Coordinator

Parkinson's Foundation

About Parkinson's Foundation

The Parkinson's Foundation is a leading nonprofit dedicated to improving care and advancing research toward a cure for Parkinson's disease, building on the energy and passion of the global Parkinson's community. Working here means directly contributing to a mission that makes life better for people with Parkinson's, with a collaborative and supportive culture. The remote-first environment and focus on work-life balance make it an attractive place for mission-driven professionals.

About the role

As a Fundraising Events Coordinator, you will be the driving force behind peer-to-peer and third-party fundraising initiatives across the West Region, including Parkinson's Champions DIY participants, local endurance races, and Parkinson's Revolution indoor cycling events. Your work will directly enhance funding, participation, and awareness, empowering volunteers and participants to reach their fundraising goals. This role is critical to expanding the Foundation's reach and impact in the Parkinson's community.

A typical day

A typical day might involve checking in with volunteer fundraisers via email or phone, analyzing campaign progress, and updating event timelines. You could also be coordinating with corporate partners, planning a local endurance race, or hosting a virtual training session for Parkinson's Champions participants. The role is dynamic, balancing strategy, relationship-building, and hands-on event support.

Who Parkinson's Foundation is looking for

  • Proven experience in peer-to-peer fundraising or event coordination, ideally in a nonprofit setting, with a track record of meeting or exceeding revenue goals.
  • Self-motivated and goal-oriented, able to work independently in a remote environment while managing multiple priorities across a multi-state region.
  • Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to coach and support volunteers and participants effectively.
  • Passionate about the Parkinson's Foundation's mission and comfortable working with diverse stakeholders, including volunteers, donors, and corporate partners.

Tips for this application

  • Highlight specific examples of peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns you've managed, including metrics like funds raised or participant growth, to demonstrate your ability to drive results.
  • Emphasize your experience working remotely and managing volunteers across different time zones or regions, as the role covers a vast West Region territory.
  • Research the Parkinson's Foundation's signature events (e.g., Parkinson's Revolution, Parkinson's Champions) and mention how you would approach growing them in your cover letter.
  • Show your passion for the cause by connecting personal or professional experiences with Parkinson's disease or neurodegenerative conditions, if applicable.
  • Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description such as 'third-party events,' 'DIY fundraising,' and 'volunteer stewardship' to pass applicant tracking systems.

What to cover in your cover letter

["Your hands-on experience with peer-to-peer fundraising platforms (e.g., Classy, DonorDrive) and how you've used them to coach participants and increase revenue.", "Your ability to work autonomously and manage a multi-state territory, with examples of how you've successfully engaged remote volunteers and participants.", "Your commitment to the Parkinson's Foundation's mission and how your values align with the organization's community-centric approach.", "Specific ideas for enhancing the Foundation's existing events (e.g., Parkinson's Revolution, endurance races) and attracting new DIY participants."]

Research before applying

  • Explore the Parkinson's Foundation's website, especially the 'Get Involved' and 'Events' sections, to understand their signature events and fundraising programs.
  • Research Parkinson's disease basics, including prevalence, symptoms, and current research, to speak knowledgeably about the cause.
  • Look up the West Region's key markets (AZ, CO, NV, OR, WA) and identify potential local partners or volunteer groups the Foundation might engage.
  • Review the Foundation's latest annual report and financial statements to understand their fundraising performance and strategic priorities.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

  • How would you approach recruiting and supporting volunteers for Parkinson's Revolution in a remote setting?
  • Describe a time you turned around a struggling fundraising campaign and what strategies you used.
  • What experience do you have with third-party event management, and how would you ensure compliance with the Foundation's policies?
  • How would you leverage social media and digital tools to boost participation and donations for peer-to-peer campaigns?
  • Why are you interested in working for the Parkinson's Foundation specifically, and how do you connect with our mission?

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Focusing only on event logistics without demonstrating an understanding of peer-to-peer fundraising and volunteer empowerment.
  • Neglecting to mention remote work experience or flexibility, as the role requires self-discipline and the ability to manage a scattered team.
  • Using a generic cover letter that doesn't reference the Parkinson's Foundation's specific events or mission, showing a lack of genuine interest.

Deadline

No deadline is listed. Roles without a deadline usually close once the employer has enough candidates, so apply soon if you are interested.