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Job SummaryMission: We transform lives by using collaborative songwriting to build creativity, connections and strengths.
SW:S is an evidence-based program where creative professionals, trained in the SW:S program model and culture, provide a judgment-free place where participants connect to themselves, each other and their communities.
SW:S is “neutral ground” for all — SW:S is not military, religious, political, or a therapy intervention.
SW:S programming currently includes: in-person, three-day weekend retreats, online workshops and collaborative songwriting sessions; and customized collaborative songwriting programs with veterans, active duty military and their families.
Position Overview: We are seeking a collaborative and dynamic Development Associate who is a team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This role will focus on supporting our fundraising efforts through events, engaging major donors, planned giving, and developing comprehensive fundraising strategies. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to our mission and a proven track record in development and fundraising.
Job ResponsibilitiesKey Responsibilities:
- Major Donor Engagement:
- Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors.
- Work closely with the Board of Directors and provide support for board-led fundraising initiatives.
- Develop personalized engagement strategies to increase donor retention and giving levels.
- Prepare proposals and presentations for donor meetings.
- Planned Giving:
- Develop and implement a planned giving program to secure long-term support for SW:S.
- Educate donors about planned giving opportunities and benefits.
- Maintain records of planned giving prospects and donors.
- Fundraising:
- Implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy and identify trends and opportunities for growth for individual, foundation and corporate support.
- Collaborate with the program team to create compelling fundraising materials.
- Plan and execute fundraising events, ensuring they align with SW:S’s mission and goals.
- Represent SW:S at community events and networking opportunities to raise awareness and build partnerships.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business, Communications, or a related field or equal work experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in development and fundraising, communications/marketing experience is a plus.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Passion for the mission of SongwritingWith:Soldiers and a commitment to veterans’ issues.
We value our employees’ time and efforts. Our commitment to team members is enhanced by competitive compensation and a benefits package.
How to ApplyIf you are a leader who believes in the power of music and storytelling to enhance and change lives; understands and can communicate the impact of creativity, connections and strengths to help others flourish; and meet our selection criteria below; please submit a letter of interest, salary requirements in the body of an email and attach your resume/CV as a separate document to HR@songwritingwithsoldiers.org.
SongwritingWith: Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Details- Date Posted: October 20, 2025
- Type: Full-Time
- Job Function: Fundraising / Revenue Development
- Service Area: Arts / Culture
- Start Date: 12/01/2025
- Salary Range: $75,000 to $80,000
- Working Hours: 40 hrs/wk; M-F, 8:00am - 4:30pm
Freqently Asked Questions
Nashville's nonprofit scene is thriving, creating a moderate to high demand for Development Directors. Candidates with proven fundraising success and strong local network ties stand out, as organizations seek skilled leaders to drive donor engagement and long-term support within the community.
Balancing diverse donor interests while reflecting Nashville's rich cultural heritage presents a unique challenge. Development Directors must creatively align fundraising strategies with local community values and the fast-growing arts scene to build meaningful partnerships and sustainable funding.
A Development Director excels in strategic donor cultivation, leading comprehensive fundraising initiatives, and integrating planned giving programs. Strong leadership and communication skills enable managing relationships at all levels, setting this role apart within revenue development hierarchies.
Development Directors often progress to executive positions like Chief Development Officer or VP of Advancement, leveraging their experience in donor relations, strategic planning, and team leadership. Continued growth depends on expanding fundraising skills and demonstrating measurable impact on organizational revenue.
Daily duties include engaging major donors, crafting tailored proposals, coordinating fundraising events, and collaborating with program teams to develop compelling narratives. The role demands adaptability to merge creativity with strategic fundraising to support mission-driven initiatives.
Yes, the organization's unique fusion of music therapy and veteran support provides Development Directors a chance to craft innovative fundraising campaigns that emotionally connect donors to a transformative mission, differentiating it from traditional nonprofit fundraising roles.
By designing personalized engagement plans and stewarding relationships with major donors and board members, the Development Director directly impacts donor loyalty and funding increases. Their leadership in planned giving also secures sustained financial support critical for long-term program success.
In Nashville, full-time Development Directors in nonprofit sectors typically earn between $75,000 and $80,000 annually. Compensation reflects the role’s responsibility in major donor engagement, strategic fundraising, and planned giving expertise within a mid-sized organization's budget.
While a bachelor's degree in nonprofit management or related fields is standard, certifications like CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) are highly regarded locally. These credentials demonstrate commitment to professional fundraising standards and enhance credibility among Nashville's philanthropic community.
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