AmeriCorps VISTA – Development Associate
Organization: Guardian Angel Settlement Association (GASA)
Location: St. Louis, MO
Job Type: Full-Time, Temporary (1-Year AmeriCorps VISTA Service Term)
About Guardian Angel Settlement Association
Founded in 1859, Guardian Angel Settlement Association (GASA) strengthens families and communities through education, social services, and community support programs. Serving thousands of individuals and families annually throughout the St. Louis region, GASA is committed to creating opportunities that improve quality of life and promote long-term stability.
Position Summary
Guardian Angel Settlement Association is seeking a full-time AmeriCorps VISTA member to serve as a Development Associate within the Development Department.
This capacity-building role focuses on strengthening fundraising infrastructure, enhancing donor stewardship systems, improving development processes, and supporting long-term organizational sustainability. The Development Associate will work closely with the Senior Director of Development and Development team to build tools, systems, and engagement strategies that increase fundraising effectiveness and expand community impact.
This position is funded and overseen by the AmeriCorps VISTA Program and is designed to build organizational capacity rather than provide direct service.
Key ResponsibilitiesDevelopment Systems amp; Infrastructure
- Audit and strengthen donor database systems and data integrity.
- Create and document Development Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Assist in developing fundraising dashboards, reports, and performance tracking tools.
- Support data management and reporting efforts across development activities.
Prospect Research amp; Pipeline Management
- Conduct research on prospective individual donors, foundations, corporations, and grant opportunities.
- Maintain donor prospect tracking and moves-management systems.
- Support donor pipeline development and cultivation efforts.
- Assist with identifying and re-engaging lapsed donors.
Donor Stewardship
- Lead donor stewardship activities including thank-you calls, personalized correspondence, recognition efforts, and follow-up communications.
- Develop and maintain a donor stewardship calendar.
- Track stewardship activities and donor engagement metrics.
- Document and improve stewardship processes to support long-term sustainability.
Campaign amp; Donor Communications Support
- Coordinate donor mailings and campaign communications.
- Manage mailing lists and track communication distribution.
- Assist with audience segmentation and donor data reporting.
- Maintain systems for tracking campaign responses and donor engagement.
Volunteer amp; Corporate Engagement Support
- Assist with coordinating volunteer groups and corporate service projects.
- Provide on-site support and guidance for volunteers.
- Help cultivate relationships that encourage continued engagement with GASA.
- Support volunteer recognition and stewardship efforts.
QualificationsRequired Qualifications
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, or similar software.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with research, data tracking, CRM systems, or database management.
- Interest in nonprofit development, fundraising, donor relations, or community impact work.
- Experience working with volunteers, community organizations, or nonprofit programs.
Physical Requirements amp; Work Environment
- Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, and move throughout the workday.
- Work is primarily performed in an office environment.
- Occasional evening and weekend work may be required for events and volunteer activities.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with measurable goals and deadlines.
AmeriCorps VISTA Benefits
This position is funded through the AmeriCorps VISTA Program. Members receive:
- Living allowance provided by AmeriCorps VISTA
- Health care benefit
- Childcare assistance (if eligible)
- Relocation assistance (if eligible)
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Liability coverage during service
- End-of-service Education Award or cash stipend upon successful completion of the service term
Please Note: This position does not receive additional salary or benefits from Guardian Angel Settlement Association beyond those provided through the AmeriCorps VISTA Program.
To learn more about the AmeriCorps VISTA Program, visit Mission: St. Louis.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the AmeriCorps VISTA application process and include a resume and brief statement of interest outlining their passion for nonprofit service and community impact.
Guardian Angel Settlement Association is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and mission-driven workplace.