While most Special Olympics services are provided by a dedicated group of volunteer coaches, fundraisers and event workers, Special Olympics Kentucky does employ a small staff to help organize competitions fundraising events and handle day-to-day operations of our statewide program. This offers opportunities for work in a challenging and rewarding environment that helps to change the lives of the athletes we serve and their families.
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Position: Development Director
The Director of Development is a full-time, exempt position that reports to the Senior VP of Development to generate sponsorship revenue for Special Olympics Kentucky (SOKY). This role is integral to the Development Team, responsible for forecasting, planning, and executing sponsorship programs aligned with the strategic plan and organizational needs. The position supports all aspects of event execution, including sponsor activation, logistics, setup, and breakdown. This position may be based in SOKY’s Frankfort or Louisville office. Some weekends, evenings, overnights, and in-state travel are required.
Responsible To: Senior VP of Development
Skills/Qualifications
- Proven experience in non-profit fundraising and event planning, including but not limited to the ability to immediately manage a portfolio of $300,000 and expand it to $500,000 within 36 months. Initial focus in Louisville and Lexington communities, with expected expansion across the state in Northern, Western, and Eastern Kentucky.
- Strong persuasive written and verbal communication
- Public speaking and presentation experience
- Positive attitude and collaborative spirit
- Ability to build respectful relationships with diverse stakeholders
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, PowerPoint, and Adobe
- Willingness to master new software and systems
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, communications, or related field
- Ability to work outdoors year-round
- Capable of lifting and moving heavy items
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the Senior VP of Development to design and implement fundraising strategies
- Research appropriate sponsors; solicit and secure meetings to foster relationships and secure sustaining support
- Provide regular communication and stewardship to sponsors and partners
- Maintain accurate sponsor records, agreements, and performance reports
- Manage project budgets and timelines, analyzing performance to meet revenue goals
- Ensure fulfillment of sponsorship benefits and engagement opportunities
- Plan and manage fundraising events from inception to execution
- Stay informed on fundraising trends, regulations, and compliance
- Collaboratively develop effective fundraising materials and campaigns
- Represent SOKY in the corporate and philanthropic communities
- Perform other duties as assigned
Other/General Responsibilities
- Contribute to SOKY website, newsletters, and social media-
- Represent SOKY at state and national meetings and conferences
- Support all SOKY efforts as needed
- Abide by all SOKY personnel policies and guidelines
Salary Range: $52,000 – $58,000
Benefits
- 401k
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- PTO
- PSLF Eligible Employer
- Life & LTD Insurance
Apply on Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=85f0c4e1a80eace0&from=shareddesktop_copy
Title: Youth Initiatives Coordinator
FSLA Status: Full Time, Exempt (Salaried)
Location: Louisville
Reports to: Youth Initiatives Director
Description
The Youth Initiatives Coordinator supports the implementation, growth, and visibility of Special Olympics Kentucky’s Unified Champion Schools (UCS) and Young Athletes Program. This position provides administrative, communication, and programmatic support, assists with statewide outreach, and helps maintain strong relationships with stakeholders. The role requires strong organizational skills, consistent follow-through, and a commitment to SOKY’s mission.
Responsibilities
Program Support
• Assist with school visits, trainings and events
• Maintain/inventory general office supplies and program materials
• Prepare materials for meetings and/or presentations
• Program Resource development/updates
• Distribute supplies/materials via mailings and in-person delivery (state-wide)
Communication & Outreach
• Draft and distribute newsletters, updates, and promotional materials
• Support social media and digital outreach efforts / website updates
• Research potential new locations for UCS and Young Athletes
• Outreach to KHSAA Athletic Directors
• Social media posts
Data Tracking & Reporting
• Create and maintain tracking mechanisms to support grant documentation and school lists
• Budget tracking as requested
• Analyze data points from liaison survey. Create method for sharing
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree
• Attention to detail
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, PowerPoint, and Adobe (Canva is a plus)
• Willingness to master new software and systems
• Experience working with youth and/or school personnel
• Capable of lifting and moving heavy items up to 50 pounds
• Evenings or weekend work may be required
Salary: $38,000 – 42,000
Send resume and cover letter to Michael Justice at mjustice@soky.org
Special Olympics Kentucky EEO Statement
Special Olympics Kentucky is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals and in which personnel processes are merit-based and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristic.