Specialist, Development
Department: Development & Communications
Reports To: Director, Development
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Location: Remote in New Hampshire (with travel statewide)
Why Join Us?
At Special Olympics New Hampshire (SONH), we believe in the extraordinary potential of every person. Every day, we create opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to develop courage, experience joy, and find a true sense of belonging. Through the power of sport and community, we open hearts, break barriers, and change lives.
We’re looking for an individual who is ready to bring energy, hustle, and heart to our mission. If you’re a natural connector—someone who thrives on building relationships, isn’t afraid of making the ask,”—this role was made for you.
What You’ll Do
As a Development Specialist, you’ll play a key role in growing our fundraising impact and community reach. Your first focus will be on our legendary Winter Water Sports Series (Penguin Plunge and Winni Dip)—signature fundraising events that combine courage, community, and a whole lot of cold water. Secondly, you will lead fundraising efforts by securing grant funding, cultivating individual donors, managing direct marketing campaigns, and expanding planned giving initiatives.
Think of this role like sales meets community building:
- Event Recruitment & Outreach: Recruit participants for the Penguin Plunge, Law Enforcement Dip, and other SONH fundraising events; engage prospective supporters through consistent phone, email, and text outreach to both warm and cold leads.
- Donor Engagement & Innovation: Inspire giving by cultivating strong relationships with individuals, foundations, and corporate partners; test creative approaches that deepen engagement and build enthusiasm for SONH’s mission.
- Performance & Impact: Track results using clear measures such as participants recruited, funds raised, and relationships strengthened.
Who You Are
- Relationship Builder: You are a natural connector and promoter who is comfortable reaching out, building rapport, and rallying people around a cause.
- Results Driven: You balance strong relationships with clear goals and embrace the challenge of growing revenue.
- Resilient & Adaptable: You bring persistence, flexibility, and a positive outlook to an evolving role where no two days are the same.
What You Bring
- 2–4 years of experience in fundraising, sales, or relationship management.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills—verbal, written, and digital.
- A proven ability to hit metrics-driven goals.
- Comfort with technology.
- Experience with nonprofit fundraising, peer-to-peer campaigns, or event-based sales is a plus.
- Knowledge of New Hampshire’s philanthropic and business community is a bonus.
What We Offer
- Salary: $55,000 – $65,000, based on experience.
- Benefits: Health insurance, retirement contributions, generous PTO, and holidays.
- Flexibility: Remote-based role with a supportive, mission-driven team.
- The chance to make a measurable impact in the lives of athletes, families, and communities across New Hampshire.
About SONH
Special Olympics New Hampshire is part of a global movement dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities through year-round sports, leadership, and community-building initiatives. We envision an inclusive world for all, driven by the power of sport, through which people with intellectual disabilities live an active, healthy and fulfilling life.
Commitment to Inclusion
We proudly welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are. Research shows that some people may self-select out of applying if they don’t meet 100% of the listed qualifications. At SONH, we encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly — you may be just the right candidate for this role.
Interested in joining the SONH team? Interested candidates should send a cover letter with salary requirements and resume to Hiring@sonh.org. New Hampshire candidates are encouraged to apply by November 1, 2026.