Job Summary
Columbia Children’s Museum is seeking a Fundraising Volunteer to support the development of fundraising initiatives for a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to bring a sensory-focused children’s museum to Columbia, Missouri.
This volunteer role will assist with identifying funding opportunities, developing donor and sponsor relationships, supporting fundraising campaigns, and helping build the financial foundation necessary to establish and operate the museum. The position is well suited for individuals interested in nonprofit development, fundraising, grant research, business development, community engagement, or philanthropy.
The museum is currently in its development phase and is building a founding volunteer team. This position provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience contributing to the growth of a nonprofit organization from its earliest stages.
Duties
- Research and identify potential grants, foundations, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and other funding opportunities
- Assist with grant research, proposal development, and submission preparation
- Research prospective donors, sponsors, businesses, and community partners
- Assist with developing sponsorship opportunities and fundraising campaigns
- Support donor and sponsor outreach through email, phone, written communication, and community networking
- Help maintain organized records of fundraising prospects, applications, contacts, and outcomes
- Assist with fundraising events, community activities, and outreach initiatives
- Identify opportunities for corporate partnerships, in-kind donations, and community support
- Help develop fundraising materials, presentations, sponsorship packages, and donor communications
- Collaborate with other members of the museum’s volunteer leadership team on fundraising priorities and initiatives
- Contribute new fundraising ideas and strategies based on individual experience and interests
Requirements
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Organized and dependable approach to assigned projects
- Interest in nonprofit organizations, fundraising, philanthropy, or community development
- Ability to conduct independent research and follow through on opportunities
- Comfortable communicating professionally with businesses, foundations, donors, and community organizations
- Basic computer and internet research skills
- Previous experience in fundraising, grant writing, sales, business development, nonprofit work, or community engagement is helpful but not required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with grant research or grant writing
- Experience developing corporate or community sponsorships
- Knowledge of nonprofit fundraising practices
- Experience with donor research or relationship management
- Strong professional networking skills
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, or similar productivity tools
This is an unpaid volunteer opportunity with nominal compensation of $1 per week. The position may be performed remotely and/or in person in the Columbia, Missouri area depending on project requirements.
Volunteers will have the opportunity to develop practical nonprofit fundraising experience while directly contributing to the establishment of a new children’s museum in the Columbia community.
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Columbia, MO 65203
