Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Major Gifts Officer (Nonprofit Fundraising – Muslim Philanthropy)

at Unity Productions Foundation (UPF)

🏢 About Unity Productions Foundation (UPF)

Unity Productions Foundation (UPF) is a unique nonprofit that uses documentary films and educational outreach to promote cross-cultural understanding, focusing on Muslim-American stories and interfaith dialogue. Working here means contributing to impactful storytelling that challenges stereotypes and fosters social change, all within a mission-driven remote team.

About This Role

As Senior Major Gifts Officer, you'll lead UPF's major gifts strategy, cultivating and soliciting high-net-worth donors and philanthropic networks to secure funding for film projects and educational programs. This role is pivotal in expanding UPF's reach and impact, directly enabling the production of films that amplify Muslim voices and build bridges between communities.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing donor pipeline reports in CRM, followed by virtual meetings with prospects or stewardship calls. Afternoons could involve drafting personalized proposals, collaborating with the ED on a campaign strategy, or attending a Muslim community event to network. The role balances strategic planning with hands-on donor engagement, all from a home office.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Unity Productions Foundation (UPF) Is Looking For

  • A seasoned fundraiser with 5+ years in major gifts or development, proven ability to raise $500K+ annually, and experience managing a portfolio of 50+ major donors.
  • Deeply connected within Muslim American communities or faith-based philanthropy networks, with a nuanced understanding of Muslim philanthropic values (e.g., Zakat, Sadaqah) and how to align them with UPF's mission.
  • A skilled relationship-builder who can authentically engage donors across cultures, from interfaith allies to diaspora philanthropists, and craft compelling cases for support.
  • Comfortable with remote work, self-motivated, and proficient in CRM tools (e.g., Salesforce) to track donor interactions and pipeline progress.

📝 Tips for Applying to Unity Productions Foundation (UPF)

1

Highlight any specific experience with Muslim philanthropy or interfaith fundraising, even if it's a small part of your background—this is key to UPF's niche.

2

In your cover letter, name-drop specific UPF films (e.g., 'The Muslims Are Coming!', 'American Muslims: Facts vs. Fiction') to show you've engaged with their content.

3

Quantify your fundraising success beyond dollar amounts: mention donor retention rates, upgrade percentages, or number of new major donors acquired.

4

Tailor your resume to emphasize remote work experience and self-management skills, as UPF is fully remote and values autonomy.

5

Include any volunteer or board involvement with Muslim community organizations to demonstrate cultural competence and network access.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your alignment with UPF's mission of promoting cross-cultural understanding through storytelling, and why Muslim philanthropy matters to you personally or professionally.", "Specific examples of how you've cultivated major donors in a faith-based or community-centered context, detailing strategies and outcomes.", "Your ability to work remotely and manage a portfolio independently, with examples of how you've built relationships virtually.", "A clear vision for how you would expand UPF's major gifts pipeline within Muslim philanthropic networks and beyond."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Watch at least one UPF documentary (e.g., 'The Muslims Are Coming!', 'American Muslim Teens') to understand their storytelling style and impact.
  • → Review UPF's website and annual reports to grasp their funding sources, donor demographics, and past major campaigns.
  • → Explore current events and reports on Muslim philanthropy, such as the 'Muslim Philanthropy Initiative' or 'The State of Muslim Giving' studies.
  • → Look into UPF's board members and key partners to identify potential donor networks or references for your application.
Visit Unity Productions Foundation (UPF)'s Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach cultivating a major donor who is unfamiliar with UPF's work but interested in Muslim philanthropy?
2 Describe a time you secured a significant gift from a donor who was initially hesitant. What was your strategy?
3 How do you stay informed about trends in Muslim philanthropy and high-net-worth giving in the US?
4 Given UPF's remote structure, how would you maintain strong relationships with donors and collaborate with executive leadership?
5 What metrics would you use to track success in this role beyond dollars raised, and how would you report progress to the ED?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic fundraising cover letter—failing to mention UPF's specific focus on Muslim stories will show lack of genuine interest.
  • Avoid overselling experience with non-Muslim donors without demonstrating cultural competency; UPF needs someone who can navigate Islamic philanthropic nuances.
  • Don't ignore the remote aspect—if you're not comfortable with virtual relationship-building or lack a home office setup, this role isn't for you.

📅 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 Unity Productions Foundation (UPF)!

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