Volunteer Director of Development – Capital Campaign Lead

About Us

The Garden of Eden Autism Retreat Center provides specialized, inclusive space and therapeutic programming for individuals on the autism spectrum. To meet growing community needs, we are launching an aggressive capital campaign to acquire a new dedicated site featuring an expanded Sensory Garden and a Therapeutic Riding facility.

The Challenge

We are seeking an ambitious, high-energy Director of Development (Volunteer) to spearhead an urgent, high-stakes $2 Million Capital Campaign over the next 90 days. This foundational funding will secure the land and build the specialized infrastructure required to change lives through nature-based and equine therapies.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute the 90-Day Campaign: Rapidly deploy a capital fundraising strategy to hit the $2,000,000 target for property acquisition.
• Corporate Partnerships: Pitch and secure high-value corporate sponsorships, targeting naming rights for the riding arena, sensory paths, and specific garden zones.
• Major Gift Solicitation: Identify, approach, and steward high-net-worth individuals and philanthropic foundations across the Greater Toronto Area.
• Corporate CSR Engagement: Package unique Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) opportunities, including corporate "Build Days" for the sensory garden.
• Pitch Deck Delivery: Confidently present the center’s vision, demonstrating the profound neurological and physical benefits of therapeutic riding and sensory stimulation.

Qualifications

• Proven Fundraising Track Record: 3+ years of experience leading capital campaigns, major gift acquisition, or corporate B2B sales/partnerships.
• Aggressive Goal-Orientation: Thrives in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments; unphased by a tight 90-day timeline.
• Strong Local Network: Existing connections within Toronto/GTA corporate sectors, real estate developers, or philanthropic circles are highly asset-focused.
• Exceptional Pitch Skills: Master storyteller capable of turning therapeutic concepts into highly compelling corporate investments.
• Passion for Neurodiversity: Deeply aligned with our mission to support autistic individuals and their support networks.

What We Offer

• Massive Portfolio Builder: Take ownership of a high-profile, rapid-results $2M campaign that will stand out on any executive resume.
• Executive Leadership: Work hand-in-hand with the Board of Directors and executive team, shaping the literal landscape of the organization.
• Tangible Social Impact: Directly enable the creation of a landmark therapeutic asset for the Toronto autism community.

How to Apply

Please send your Resume/LinkedIn profile and a brief note outlining your experience with rapid capital campaigns to indraniw5@gmail.com /partner@autismretreat.cawith the subject line "Director of Development Application – Dr Amy ".