Development & Partnerships Specialist in Baltimore, Maryland at The Maryland School for the Blind

Position Overview

The Development & Partnerships Specialist leads donor cultivation, sponsorship development, and fundraising execution for the Maryland School for the Blind. This role is responsible for managing a portfolio of donors and prospects, building strategic partnerships, and advancing fundraising efforts that support the organization’s mission.

This position is ideal for a relationship-driven fundraiser who enjoys developing donor pipelines, stewarding meaningful gifts, and working collaboratively to grow revenue and engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Donor Cultivation & Stewardship

• Manage and grow a portfolio of major and mid-level donors and prospects
• Develop and execute individualized cultivation and stewardship strategies
• Lead donor outreach, meetings, and follow-up to move prospects through the pipeline
• Maintain accurate and timely records of donor interactions and progress

Sponsorships & Strategic Partnerships

• Develop and secure corporate sponsorships for the See Beyond Festival and other key initiatives
• Identify and cultivate new partnership opportunities aligned with organizational priorities
• Ensure delivery and fulfillment of sponsor benefits in coordination with internal teams
• Build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with community and corporate partners

Fundraising & Campaign Execution

• Contribute to the planning and execution of annual fundraising campaigns and appeals
• Collaborate on donor segmentation and targeting strategies
• Support development of solicitation strategies and campaign messaging in partnership with communications staff
• Track progress toward fundraising goals and identify opportunities to strengthen results

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit advancement
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage donor relationships
• Strong communication skills, including comfort with donor-facing conversations
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
• Familiarity with donor databases or CRM systems
• Interest in growing into a more strategic fundraising role

Why This Role

This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of donor relationships and partnerships while contributing to a growing advancement program. You will play a direct role in expanding the organization’s reach, strengthening community connections, and increasing support for students who are blind or have low vision.