Development Communications Associate Jobs in Fort Myers, FL

Blessings in a Backpack mobilizes communities, individuals, and resources to provide food on the weekends for school-age children across America who might otherwise go hungry.The organization provides over 2.7 million hunger-free weekends each year. The Southwest Florida Chapter currently plans to serve over 8,000 children in the 2026/27 school year.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Chapter Associate plays a key role in advancing the Southwest Florida Chapter's fundraising strategy and sustaining its growing base of individual, corporate, and foundation support.
This position works closely with the Managing Director to execute development initiatives, manage donor relationships, and support revenue-generating events, while maintaining alignment with program operations. The role is responsible for ensuring strong donor engagement, consistent stewardship, and effective fundraising systems that drive longterm growth.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chapter Associate, Southwest Florida Chapter supports fundraising and donor engagement efforts while supporting core operational functions that inform and strengthen development strategy.
Fundraising & Revenue Development
• Assist in the preparation of grant proposals, sponsorship packages, and funding requests
• Collaborate with the Managing Director to plan and execute an annual advisory board retreat
• Maintain donor database integrity
• Analyze data to inform donor strategies and identify growth opportunities
Donor Stewardship & Communications
• Lead the execution of donor stewardship strategies to ensure timely and meaningful engagement
• Maintain a strong understanding of program operations to effectively communicate impact to donors
• Draft and manage donor communications including acknowledgment letters, impact reports, appeals, and newsletters
• Recruit volunteers as needed to assist in executing donor communications, recognition, and engagement touchpoints
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records, tracking all interactions and opportunities in RE
• Support grant reporting by compiling program data, financial information, and impact metrics
• Collaborate with program staff and volunteers to gather stories, data, and insights for fundraising efforts
Events & Corporate Engagement
• Coordinate and execute donor cultivation events and corporate packing experiences
• Collaborate with Manager of Special Events, volunteers, vendors, and staff to support successful event execution
• Assist with monthly advisory board meeting preparation
Program & Operational Alignment
• Provide general administrative support across the chapter, with primary emphasis on fundraising and development activities
• Assume administrative and programmatic duties of program staff when needed to ensure continuity of chapter operations and service delivery
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• 2-4 years of experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit work
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including donor-facing materials
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and donor database systems
• Strong relationship-building, organization, and attention to detail
• Commitment to addressing childhood food insecurity
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Experience with Raiser's Edge, Blackbaud, or similar donor databases
• Grant writing and reporting experience
• Familiarity with email marketing tools (e.g., Constant Contact)
• Experience with Canva or similar design tools
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds
• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
• Ability to travel locally for meetings, school visits, and events
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This is a full-time hybrid role based in the Fort Myers, FL area. Regular local travel is required for donor meetings, events, and program visits. Occasional travel may be required for organizational meetings, training, or retreats. Evening and weekend work are occasionally required, particularly during fundraising events.
BENEFITS
Medical, dental, and vision insurance. Paid time off and holidays. Retirement plan options.
Parental leave. Professional development support. Additional well-being benefits consistent with organizational policy.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply through our Careers Page. Explore opportunities to join our mission to end weekend hunger at Careers & Internships.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Blessings in a Backpack is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities. For assistance or to request accommodations, please contact HR at hr @ blessingsinabackpack.org