Organization Overview:
Hawthorn Hollow grew out of love for the land. As a nature sanctuary and arboretum, Hawthorn Hollow has been connecting people and nature through environmental education and conservation efforts for more than 50 years. Visitors can explore a 12-acre arboretum, the woodlands of the Pike River Valley, prairies, wetlands, gardens, and historic buildings that reflect the rich history of Somers. Hawthorn Hollow is owned and operated by the Hyslop Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1964. Our mission is to inspire enduring stewardship of our Pike River land and its rich history

Position Overview:
The Fundraising Coordinator plays a key role in advancing Hawthorn Hollow’s mission by developing donor relationships, managing fundraising campaigns, and overseeing private rental and memorial programs. We seek a highly motivated, outgoing individual with excellent communication skills and a passion for nonprofit fundraising. The ideal candidate will be organized, strategic, and creative in securing sponsorships, cultivating donor engagement, and identifying opportunities to enhance community support. This position requires a deep understanding of Hawthorn Hollow’s mission and the ability to leverage our unique spaces for fundraising initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities:

Fundraising

• Collaborate with the Executive Director and Resource Development Committee to develop and implement fundraising strategies, including individual giving, major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, and special events. Serve as the primary liaison for this committee.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with new and existing donors.
• Secure sponsorships for fundraising events and programs in coordination with other Hawthorn Hollow departments.
• Maintain donor records, track contributions, and provide timely acknowledgment letters.
• Assist in planning, organizing, and executing fundraising events.
• Support grant research, writing, and reporting efforts to secure additional funding.
• Promote and oversee memorial programs (trees, benches, plaques).

Private Rentals

• Promote and manage venue rentals for private events, including weddings, corporate retreats, photography sessions, and community gatherings.
• Handle inquiries, conduct venue tours, and manage contracts and permits.
• Work with the Event Coordinator to ensure seamless day-of event management.
• Receive and track rental payments.
• Ensure venues are well-maintained and presented to prospective clients.
• Analyze private event performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Recruit and manage volunteers for the occasional large private event.

Other Responsibilities

• Assist in progressing and updating the annual Strategic Plan.
• Provide occasional support to other departments, including Conservation, Education, and Events.

Qualifications

• Experience in fundraising, marketing, communications, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s, Associate’s, or advanced degree in a related field are a plus.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage time effectively, stay self-motivated, and remain organized.
• Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to evolving tasks.
• Ability to work under pressure and apply quick problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Access or similar database software (preferred but not required).
•  Experience managing social media, graphic design, and website development (preferred).
• Grant writing experience is a plus.
• Ability to perform physical tasks related to the position.

Compensation & Hours

• Compensation Range: $18-$24/hour
• Hours: Part-time position starting at 24 hours per week with flexible scheduling, including occasional evenings and weekends.