I do partnerships for some of Google's earliest-stage products and initiatives and I also serve as Chair of the Board for The School Fund, an international nonprofit raising scholarship money for secondary school students in the developing world.
CAREER
Fundraisers
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$59,610
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+14.3% (faster than the average)
Most Common Level of Education
Bachelor's degree
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Fundraisers Do
Organize activities to raise funds or otherwise solicit and gather monetary donations or other gifts for an organization. May design and produce promotional materials. May also raise awareness of the organization's work, goals, and financial needs.
Other Job Titles Fundraisers May Have
Contract Grant Writer, Development Associate, Development Officer, Direct Response Consultant, Fundraising Consultant, Grant Coordinator, Philanthropy Officer, Principal Gifts Officer
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
It would depend on the day. I work in a volunteer capacity so I work from home most of the time. I also attend a lot of meetings. Most meetings are strategizing to move toward a goal.
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Identify and build relationships with potential donors.
- Secure commitments of participation or donation from individuals or corporate donors.
- Write and send letters of thanks to donors.
- Solicit cash or in-kind donations or sponsorships from individual, business, or government donors.
- Create or update donor databases.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Fundraisers
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Bachelor's degree (50%)
Some college, no degree
7%
Bachelor's degree
50%
Master's degree
34%
Other*
9%
*All other responses combined for clarity.
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Small Business Administration/Man...
Suggested Path
Bachelor
Psychology, General
Graduate
Non-Profit/Public/...
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
As young people, we don't always see the road blocks or potential problems that can occur. Staying optimistic and idealistic is a huge advantage especially when embarking down an unfamiliar path.
Organizational and project management skills are really important. Motivating and empowering people to get a job done that most of the time they are not paid to do are also key.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
High School Students
My path was winding, and that's ok. Look for people who can teach you new things and expand your worldview. Try to work on projects, products, that align with your values.
While you are a student, get involved with an events industry organization and volunteer to help any chance you can. You'll start building a real world knowledge base and a reputation if you work hard.
Take the time to learn. You don't have to jump into every opportunity right away. Build your skills and experience before trying to take charge. Take advantage of leadership development programs and networking. Intern or take on various positions within your company in order to learn a variety of skills.
College Students
Everyone
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
