Start Early (formerly known as the Ounce) is an energized, future-focused organization devoted to providing quality early learning and care across the country.


Our desire to close the opportunity gap and build more equitable early learning experiences for our youngest learners guides everything we do. As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy and research through partnerships across the country.


We are recruiting individuals who want to join us in this mission and share a commitment to our core values of appreciation & respect, empowerment, diversity, excellence, learning and communication.


Become part of our rewarding, mission-driven culture! We want our employees to feel empowered, motivated, energized, and passionate about the work they do!


The Associate, Individual Giving will serve as a key member to Start Earlys growing Individual Giving team. They will be responsible for providing tactical support in the areas of individual fundraising, portfolio management, database support, and administrative activities aligned with Start Earlys mission and strategic plan. Comfortable handling a variety of projects, and reporting to the Director, Individual Giving, this person will be integral to the success of Start Earlys Individual Giving team raising upwards of $8M.

Reporting to the Director, Individual Giving you will:



Contribute to the success of Start Earlys Individual Giving program by project managing all aspects of the Individual Giving portfolio system, including, but not limited to, working with other teams to pull appropriate reports, drive meetings, update database, and prompt action/facilitate communication with prospects and donors when appropriate/needed.

In partnership with the Director, Individual Giving, manage Individual Giving team meetings, ensuring they are both effective and efficient, by providing support with scheduling, drafting and revising agendas based on team input, ensuring each meeting has a clear objective and outcomes, and leading on follow-up.

Assist the Director, Individual Giving and Individual Giving Manager with Annual Fund and Planned Giving communications, including renewals, acknowledgements, invitations, other e-communications, and creation of print materials and subsequent mailings.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records in Salesforce database, including key data from SE events, development staff meetings, and other contextual information. Ensures all individuals are properly recognized in publications and oversees accurate donor lists.

Support donor cultivation and stewardship activities by organizing materials, attending events, tracking follow-up activity, etc.

Deep commitment in advancing diversity, racial equity, and inclusion into organizational routines and practice.

Effectively establish and maintain effective relationships with customers and gain their trust and respect.

Comfort and experience in handling risk and uncertainty to move work forward.

Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of this job description.


Qualifications:



Bachelors degree required.

Two to five years of experience with non-profit fundraising is preferred. Experience working with a database (Salesforce preferred).

Ability to interact with senior staff leadership, donors, and key stakeholders in a professional manner.

Project management skills sufficient to manage multiple competing and complex tasks efficiently.

Ability to adapt to changing needs and priorities and remain flexible.

Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office products; ability to learn and grasp other computer technology and software programs as needed.

Organized problem solver with exceptional attention to detail.

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Ability to support multiple staff members and work in a team environment.

Demonstrated ability to work with diverse staff and external individuals.

Ability to process, protect, and exercise discretion in handling confidential information and materials.



We recognize that few candidates might meet every single piece of knowledge, experience, or education listed here. Research shows that women and people of color, among many other historically excluded groups, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Start Early is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your qualifications dont perfectly align with everything in the job description, we still encourage you to apply!

Base Annual Salary: $59,000-$66,000


We believe that all employees should be paid fairly and equitably. As of the time of this posting, this is the expected base annual salary range. The base annual salary will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, as well as business needs and limitations.

The Chicagoland area is preferred with a hybrid work schedule. Open to a remote position outside Chicago.

Our generous benefits plan includes:


Comprehensive Health Plans, Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Holistic Wellness Program, Professional Development Program, 401k Contribution, Paid Volunteer Days, 6 months paid parental leave, and much more.


Start Early is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to our core values by creating an inclusive environment for all staff.