Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Development Manager, Carolinas Chapter

at Parkinson's Foundation

🏢 About Parkinson's Foundation

The Parkinson's Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson's disease through innovative care and research. Working here means joining a mission-driven team that values community engagement and making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and families.

About This Role

As the Senior Development Manager for the Carolinas Chapter, you will lead fundraising efforts, including the signature Moving Day walk, while building strong community partnerships across North and South Carolina. This role is pivotal in expanding the Foundation's reach and impact in the region, directly contributing to the mission of improving care and advancing research.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve checking in with volunteers for upcoming Moving Day events, meeting with corporate sponsors via video call, and developing strategies to engage new donors. You might also spend time on event logistics, donor stewardship calls, and collaborating with the chapter team to ensure fundraising goals are on track.

🎯 Who Parkinson's Foundation Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a track record of meeting or exceeding revenue goals through events and donor cultivation.
  • Strong relationship-building skills, able to engage diverse stakeholders including volunteers, corporate partners, and donors.
  • Self-motivated and organized, comfortable working remotely with the ability to travel within NC/SC as needed.
  • Leadership experience, capable of supporting and mentoring chapter team members and volunteers.

📝 Tips for Applying to Parkinson's Foundation

1

Highlight specific fundraising results (e.g., amounts raised, event growth) and your role in achieving them.

2

Tailor your resume to emphasize experience with walk/run events, corporate sponsorships, and volunteer management.

3

Research the Parkinson's Foundation's mission and Moving Day event; mention them in your cover letter to show genuine interest.

4

Since the role is remote and covers NC/SC, emphasize your ability to work independently and your familiarity with the region (e.g., local connections).

5

In your application, address how you have successfully managed multiple priorities and events simultaneously, as this role requires juggling various fundraising initiatives.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express passion for the Parkinson's Foundation's mission and personal connection to the cause if applicable.", "Demonstrate your experience with large-scale fundraising events, particularly walks, and how you've driven participation and revenue.", 'Showcase your ability to build and maintain relationships with volunteers, sponsors, and community partners.', 'Mention your leadership style and how you support team members and volunteers to achieve shared goals.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Understand the Parkinson's Foundation's strategic priorities and recent initiatives (e.g., care, research, education).
  • Learn about the Moving Day event: its history, participation numbers, and how it raises funds.
  • Familiarize yourself with the Carolinas Chapter's current activities, staff, and volunteer leadership.
  • Review the Foundation's website and social media to gauge their tone, branding, and community engagement.
Visit Parkinson's Foundation's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with fundraising events like Moving Day. How did you ensure their success?
2 How do you cultivate corporate sponsorships and partnerships? Share a successful example.
3 How do you manage donor relationships and steward them for long-term engagement?
4 Given the remote nature of the role, how do you stay motivated and organized? How do you maintain communication with your team and volunteers?
5 What strategies would you use to engage the community in both North and South Carolina to increase participation in Moving Day?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter; it should be specifically tailored to the Parkinson's Foundation and this role.
  • Avoid overemphasizing unrelated experience; focus on fundraising, events, and relationship management.
  • Don't neglect to mention your willingness to travel and work remotely; the role requires covering a large geographic area.

📅 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 Parkinson's Foundation!