The Annual Giving Coordinator is a crucial member of the Philanthropy Department, responsible for securing philanthropic support for the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. This role focuses on managing and entering of gift data, the Adopt Program, and the employee giving campaign.

Data Entry and Management

• Accurately enter and maintain donor and gift information in Raisers Edge.
• Process all incoming gifts, including cash, checks, online donations, pledges, and in-kind contributions, ensuring compliance with established protocols.
• Generate and distribute timely donor acknowledgment letters, tax receipts, and other related correspondence.
• Perform regular data integrity checks and updates to ensure donor records are accurate and up to date.

Program Management

• Oversee the Adopt Programs to meet financial goals, including crafting donor renewal letters, executing direct mail campaigns, and creating special Adopt packages for new animal births and unique gifts.
• Plan and execute the annual Adopt Appreciation events, ensuring a memorable experience for supporters.
• Manage the memorial bench program, providing a meaningful way to honor loved ones.

Fundraising and Donor Engagement

• Develop and implement the employee giving campaign to increase participation and donations.
• Support annual donor stewardship initiatives and fundraising events, as needed.
• Meet with Adopt donors and prospects for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship, building strong relationships.

Collaboration and Representation

• Attend events as an informed ambassador for the organization, upholding guest service standards.
• Collaborate with Philanthropy Department and Corporate Partnership Department members on various activities as needed.
• Consistently strives to advance the organization’s mission and actively supports the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and the Donor Bill of Rights in all interactions.
• Implement sustainable practices in daily tasks.

• BA/BS in communication, marketing, business, journalism, or a related field or a minimum of 2 years in fundraising
• Working knowledge of Raiser’s Edge and/or Raiser’s Edge NXT
• Experience working with a diverse group of people
• Excellent public speaking and writing skills
• Valid driver’s license, proof of negative TB screening, and successful completion of a criminal history background check
• Adherence to the Columbus Zoo Family of Park’s drug-free workplace policy

Other Qualifications

• Ability to develop and deliver engaging presentations to diverse groups
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Strong multitasking ability in a fast-paced environment
• Capable of interpreting data and analyzing results
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Commitment to providing excellent guest service and adhering to organizational standards
• Ability to develop cooperative working relationships with team members and stakeholders

Join our team and contribute to the mission of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium while making a positive impact on our community!