Director of Development
OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center, Santa Monica, CA, United States
Title:
Director of Development
Reports to:
Executive Director
Location:
Hybrid — West Los Angeles or Woodland Hills, CA
Job Type:
Full-time
Salary Range:
$125,000 to $140,000 DOE
About OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center is the leading provider of grief support services in Southern California. For more than 30 years, we have helped thousands of children, teens, and adults throughout Los Angeles County find healing after the death of someone close. Our vision is a world where grief is embraced, understood, and respected. We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Director of Development to join our team and help advance our mission.
Every day at OUR HOUSE, we witness the power of connection in the face of grief. Just a few months ago, a 12-year-old boy, whose father died suddenly, walked into one of our school‑based grief groups withdrawn and silent. Over the course of several sessions, he began to open up, eventually sharing memories and even laughter with other students who understood his pain. He found comfort, belonging, and a path forward. After the group ended, he was more engaged in class, reconnected with friends, and was more confident in navigating his school day.
Similarly, a 42‑year‑old mother of two came to OUR HOUSE devastated after the death of her husband. She had been trying to stay strong for her children while quietly unraveling inside. In her adult support group, she found not only a safe space to cry and speak openly about her grief, but also a network of people who helped her feel seen and less alone. By the end of the 12‑week group cycle, she reported sleeping better, spending more time with friends, and having more energy to show up for her family. She also stayed in contact with group members, and still does today, meeting monthly for dinners to share memories and continue healing.
Stories like these reflect the heart of OUR HOUSE’s mission: to provide grief support services, education, resources, and hope for individuals, families, schools, and communities throughout greater Los Angeles. Through professionally led support groups, education, and training, we offer healing spaces where people of all ages can rebuild and find hope after the death of someone close.
At OUR HOUSE, we foster a team culture rooted in empathy, collaboration, and shared purpose. We believe in showing up for one another with authenticity and care, and we approach our work with dedication, curiosity, and a deep respect for the people we serve. We strive to create an environment where every team member feels empowered, supported, and connected to the mission.
The Director of Development will join our passionate leadership team at a time of growth and renewed vision. In the first year, success will be defined by:
Launching a refreshed major gifts and stewardship strategy
Expanding the leadership‑level donor pipeline and deepening donor relationships
Enhancing systems and metrics for tracking fundraising performance and impact
Supporting, mentoring, and inspiring the Development team
Strengthening OUR HOUSE’s visibility and fundraising partnerships with boards and community leaders
POSITION DESCRIPTION THE OPPORTUNITY The Director of Development (DoD) serves as a senior leader on OUR HOUSE’s executive team, guiding the organization’s fundraising strategy to ensure long‑term sustainability and growth. This role is responsible for leading and mentoring the Fund Development team, cultivating major donors, stewarding institutional relationships, and overseeing all aspects of fundraising operations. The DoD is a key ambassador of the agency, building meaningful relationships with community partners, institutional funders, and internal stakeholders.
PRIMARY AREAS OF FOCUS
Major gifts and planned giving
Fund development strategy and team leadership
Donor engagement and stewardship
SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Oversight of marketing and communications
Board and community relations
Event‑based fundraising and donor cultivation
KEY OUTCOMES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Fund Development Strategy & Leadership
Lead a high‑performing Fund Development team by setting strategic direction, managing team performance, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Partner with agency leadership to align fundraising goals with the organization’s strategic priorities.
Guide the development and execution of an annual fundraising plan, incorporating diversified funding sources including individuals, foundations, corporations, and special campaigns.
Ensure effective systems and processes are in place for donor tracking, data analysis, and reporting.
Major Gifts & Planned Giving
Design and lead a comprehensive major gift and planned giving program that cultivates new and existing relationships.
Manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, working closely with the Executive Director, board members, and volunteers to steward and solicit leadership‑level gifts ($5,000).
Develop and implement donor engagement strategies that deepen commitment and increase long‑term investment in OUR HOUSE.
Donor Engagement & Stewardship
Oversee a donor stewardship program that includes personalized outreach, timely acknowledgments, and meaningful recognition.
Ensure best practices in donor communications, including impact reporting, storytelling, and stewardship events.
Collaborate with Operations and Development teams to ensure accurate gift processing and data integrity.
Board & Community Relations
Serve as the primary liaison between the Fund Development team and agency boards.
Engage board members and volunteers in cultivation and fundraising efforts.
Attend board meetings and provide regular updates on fundraising progress and priorities.
Represent OUR HOUSE at community events and networking opportunities to expand visibility and donor pipeline.
Marketing, Events & Communications Support
Provide strategic support for agency marketing, branding, and social media in alignment with development goals.
Support the planning and execution of key fundraising and stewardship events including Run for Hope, the House of Hope Gala, and other donor gatherings.
Ensure events are integrated into the broader development strategy and provide meaningful donor engagement opportunities.
Organizational Participation & Professional Development
Contribute to agency‑wide initiatives, including staff meetings, retreats, and strategic planning processes.
Stay current on philanthropic trends, tools, and best practices through professional development.
TRAITS AND CHARACTERISTICS DESIRED The ideal candidate is a seasoned development professional with a track record of securing major gifts of $10K‑$1M, and experience cultivating individuals, foundations, and corporations. The candidate is an exceptional communicator with strong writing, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills. This individual also brings emotional intelligence, humility, and the ability to work effectively across diverse stakeholder groups. A commitment to OUR HOUSE’s mission and values is essential.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, including major gifts and team leadership.
Fluency in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.
Experience with donor management software such as DonorPerfect or Bloomerang.
To Apply Please send your resume to Julia Miele, Executive Director, at julia@ourhouse‑grief.org. A cover letter is optional but highly encouraged.
OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
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Director of Development
Reports to:
Executive Director
Location:
Hybrid — West Los Angeles or Woodland Hills, CA
Job Type:
Full-time
Salary Range:
$125,000 to $140,000 DOE
About OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center is the leading provider of grief support services in Southern California. For more than 30 years, we have helped thousands of children, teens, and adults throughout Los Angeles County find healing after the death of someone close. Our vision is a world where grief is embraced, understood, and respected. We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Director of Development to join our team and help advance our mission.
Every day at OUR HOUSE, we witness the power of connection in the face of grief. Just a few months ago, a 12-year-old boy, whose father died suddenly, walked into one of our school‑based grief groups withdrawn and silent. Over the course of several sessions, he began to open up, eventually sharing memories and even laughter with other students who understood his pain. He found comfort, belonging, and a path forward. After the group ended, he was more engaged in class, reconnected with friends, and was more confident in navigating his school day.
Similarly, a 42‑year‑old mother of two came to OUR HOUSE devastated after the death of her husband. She had been trying to stay strong for her children while quietly unraveling inside. In her adult support group, she found not only a safe space to cry and speak openly about her grief, but also a network of people who helped her feel seen and less alone. By the end of the 12‑week group cycle, she reported sleeping better, spending more time with friends, and having more energy to show up for her family. She also stayed in contact with group members, and still does today, meeting monthly for dinners to share memories and continue healing.
Stories like these reflect the heart of OUR HOUSE’s mission: to provide grief support services, education, resources, and hope for individuals, families, schools, and communities throughout greater Los Angeles. Through professionally led support groups, education, and training, we offer healing spaces where people of all ages can rebuild and find hope after the death of someone close.
At OUR HOUSE, we foster a team culture rooted in empathy, collaboration, and shared purpose. We believe in showing up for one another with authenticity and care, and we approach our work with dedication, curiosity, and a deep respect for the people we serve. We strive to create an environment where every team member feels empowered, supported, and connected to the mission.
The Director of Development will join our passionate leadership team at a time of growth and renewed vision. In the first year, success will be defined by:
Launching a refreshed major gifts and stewardship strategy
Expanding the leadership‑level donor pipeline and deepening donor relationships
Enhancing systems and metrics for tracking fundraising performance and impact
Supporting, mentoring, and inspiring the Development team
Strengthening OUR HOUSE’s visibility and fundraising partnerships with boards and community leaders
POSITION DESCRIPTION THE OPPORTUNITY The Director of Development (DoD) serves as a senior leader on OUR HOUSE’s executive team, guiding the organization’s fundraising strategy to ensure long‑term sustainability and growth. This role is responsible for leading and mentoring the Fund Development team, cultivating major donors, stewarding institutional relationships, and overseeing all aspects of fundraising operations. The DoD is a key ambassador of the agency, building meaningful relationships with community partners, institutional funders, and internal stakeholders.
PRIMARY AREAS OF FOCUS
Major gifts and planned giving
Fund development strategy and team leadership
Donor engagement and stewardship
SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Oversight of marketing and communications
Board and community relations
Event‑based fundraising and donor cultivation
KEY OUTCOMES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Fund Development Strategy & Leadership
Lead a high‑performing Fund Development team by setting strategic direction, managing team performance, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Partner with agency leadership to align fundraising goals with the organization’s strategic priorities.
Guide the development and execution of an annual fundraising plan, incorporating diversified funding sources including individuals, foundations, corporations, and special campaigns.
Ensure effective systems and processes are in place for donor tracking, data analysis, and reporting.
Major Gifts & Planned Giving
Design and lead a comprehensive major gift and planned giving program that cultivates new and existing relationships.
Manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, working closely with the Executive Director, board members, and volunteers to steward and solicit leadership‑level gifts ($5,000).
Develop and implement donor engagement strategies that deepen commitment and increase long‑term investment in OUR HOUSE.
Donor Engagement & Stewardship
Oversee a donor stewardship program that includes personalized outreach, timely acknowledgments, and meaningful recognition.
Ensure best practices in donor communications, including impact reporting, storytelling, and stewardship events.
Collaborate with Operations and Development teams to ensure accurate gift processing and data integrity.
Board & Community Relations
Serve as the primary liaison between the Fund Development team and agency boards.
Engage board members and volunteers in cultivation and fundraising efforts.
Attend board meetings and provide regular updates on fundraising progress and priorities.
Represent OUR HOUSE at community events and networking opportunities to expand visibility and donor pipeline.
Marketing, Events & Communications Support
Provide strategic support for agency marketing, branding, and social media in alignment with development goals.
Support the planning and execution of key fundraising and stewardship events including Run for Hope, the House of Hope Gala, and other donor gatherings.
Ensure events are integrated into the broader development strategy and provide meaningful donor engagement opportunities.
Organizational Participation & Professional Development
Contribute to agency‑wide initiatives, including staff meetings, retreats, and strategic planning processes.
Stay current on philanthropic trends, tools, and best practices through professional development.
TRAITS AND CHARACTERISTICS DESIRED The ideal candidate is a seasoned development professional with a track record of securing major gifts of $10K‑$1M, and experience cultivating individuals, foundations, and corporations. The candidate is an exceptional communicator with strong writing, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills. This individual also brings emotional intelligence, humility, and the ability to work effectively across diverse stakeholder groups. A commitment to OUR HOUSE’s mission and values is essential.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, including major gifts and team leadership.
Fluency in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.
Experience with donor management software such as DonorPerfect or Bloomerang.
To Apply Please send your resume to Julia Miele, Executive Director, at julia@ourhouse‑grief.org. A cover letter is optional but highly encouraged.
OUR HOUSE Grief Support Center is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
#J-18808-Ljbffr