Fundraising & Donor Relations Manager

The Fundraising & Donor Relations Manager plays a key leadership role in advancing the mission of Awana International Canada by developing strong, sustainable donor relationships and strategies. This role is responsible for achieving fundraising targets, leading donor engagement initiatives, and mentoring fundraising-focused staff and volunteers. This position ensures the long-term sustainability of the ministry by aligning Awana’s mission with donor passion to give.

REPORTS TO:

Primary – Executive Director

Part-time or Full-time: Full-time (37-40 hours per week)

Travel: Frequent travel required, especially to B.C. and Ontario, with occasional travel across Canada (approx. 3–4 weeks/year)

Compensation: 55,000–$65,000 annually

Benefits Included: $75 Internet/ month, $50 phone /month. 2 weeks of vacation plus 1-2 week shut-down over Christmas. Full-time employees will be offered health benefits, and GRSP options with employer contribution after 3 months.

Responsibilities

1. Fund Development – Growing sustainable ministry support:
● Lead the creation and implementation of fundraising strategies to meet annual income targets.
● Cultivate, steward, and grow a portfolio of major and mid-level donors.
● Build strong relationships with donors, churches, mission boards, and partners.
● Promote generosity through storytelling, impact reporting, and passion alignment.
● Work with the Executive Director and Board to identify and engage donors for transformational giving.
● Collect and share regional and national stories/photos that inspire and communicate ministry impact.

2. Strategic Leadership – Casting vision and ensuring long-term growth:
● Participate in the development of and manage the annual fundraising plan and budget.
● Track performance metrics and provide regular reports to the Executive Director and Board.
● Actively participate in the Leadership Team meetings and contribute to national strategy.
● Collaborate cross-functionally with ministry, communications, and operations teams.
● Represent Awana’s mission confidently and winsomely in all external interactions.

3. Team Leadership – Leading with humility and purpose:
● Coach and mentor Ministry Development Coordinators and fundraising-focused staff.
● Develop capacity and alignment within the team for major and mid-level giving.
● Foster a positive, high-trust, professional team culture.
● Encourage collaboration between fundraising and ministry teams for maximum mission impact.

4. Donor Communications – Keeping supporters engaged and informed:
● Ensure timely donor acknowledgment, impact updates, and personal touches.
● Create and review communications that reflect Awana’s brand, heart, and impact.
● Represent Awana Canada with warmth and excellence at donor events, gatherings, and presentations..

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate has a strong fundraising background, leadership experience, and a passion for equipping the local church to reach kids with the Gospel.

Experience and Knowledge:

Essentials:
● 3–4 years of fundraising experience with a strong track record of major donor engagement.
● Proven experience coaching teams and developing fundraising strategies.
● Commitment to a long-term, relational approach to donor development.
● Strong appreciation for good data and clear processes.

Desirables:
● Experience with trust, mid-level, or foundation giving.
● Experience in donor communications or campaign management.

Skills & Attributes

Essentials:
● Highly organized and detail-oriented.
● Self-starter who can work independently and collaboratively.
● Excellent communicator and natural relationship-builder.
● Proficient with Google Workspace, Keela, Zoom, and CRM platforms (such as ZOHO).
● Able to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
● Demonstrates Christlike leadership, humility, and servant-heartedness.

Desirables:
● Relevant training or certification in fundraising (e.g. CFRE in progress).
● Previous ministry or church leadership experience.

How to Apply

If this sounds like you, please email a summary of your experience and interest to: opportunities@awanacanada.ca

Be sure to indicate your interest in the Fundraising & Donor Relations Manager role.

We’d love to hear:

• How your experience aligns with this role
• Why you’re excited about Awana’s mission

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Closing date: September 1, 2025.