ABOUT US:
The STARability Foundation S*upports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize Teamwork and connection to the community to build Awareness and R*espect for individual abilities. STARability serves individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges in Southwest Florida, where we provide lifetime support and opportunities. STARability opens up a calendar of engaging activities with innovative and creative programs focusing on continuing education, teamwork, and community involvement.
THE OPPORTUNITY:
STARability Foundation, an organization transforming the lives of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, is in the midst of a transformational $60 million capital campaign, Opening Doors — and the response so far has confirmed something we've long known: our donor base is deep, loyal, and ready to invest in our mission. What we haven't had is the infrastructure to fully engage them.
That's why we're not filling a single role — we're building an entire Philanthropy team from the ground up. This is a rare opportunity to join an organization at a true inflection point, where the foundation (a strong case for support, an engaged donor base, and momentum from a major campaign) is already in place, and the new team has the exciting job of building the systems, programs, and deepening relationships that will sustain this growth for years to come. As the Manager of Special Events & Community Engagement, you will be collaborating with many members of our passionate and engaging team, including the Chief Philanthropy Officer, Major Gift Officer, Director of Fundraising Events, and campaign leadership.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Manager of Special Events & Community Engagement will assist the Director of Fundraising Events in planning, coordinating, and executing all internal signature fundraising events (Gala, Golf, Run); develop and implement community outreach (third-party) events; and coordinate cultivation and stewardship events related to the Opening Doors Capital Campaign. This role requires a creative, detail-oriented individual who is comfortable taking initiative, excels at managing competing priorities, has excellent follow-up skills, a strong command of the English language, and is comfortable engaging volunteers, committee members, donors, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to maximize event deliverables and expand community awareness.
The ideal candidate is a highly organized, creative, and detail-oriented event professional who will complement and collaborate closely with the Director of Fundraising Events, providing hands-on support during peak signature events (Gala, Golf Tournament, and Run), expanding our community outreach (third-party) events, and coordinating new 2026/27 Opening Doors Capital Campaign cultivation and stewardship events.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Signature Fundraising Events
- Provide dedicated planning and day-of support for STARability Foundation's peak signature events, including the annual Gala, Golf Tournament, and Run.
- Assist the Director of Fundraising Events with event logistics, provide support to committee volunteers, help prepare for meetings, and manage volunteer/committee communications, vendor coordination, timelines, budgets, and volunteer/committee communications as needed.
- Coordinate event registration, sponsorship fulfillment, and donor/guest experience elements to ensure a seamless, high-quality event.
- Track event details, deadlines, and deliverables, providing consistent follow-up with vendors, sponsors, and internal stakeholders.
Community Outreach & Third-Party Events
- Develop and implement STARability's community outreach strategy for third-party events hosted by outside individuals, businesses, or organizations on the Foundation's behalf.
- Serve as the primary liaison for third-party event hosts, providing guidance, branding materials, and support to ensure alignment with STARability's mission and messaging.
- Identify and cultivate new community outreach opportunities that raise awareness and expand STARability's presence throughout the Naples community.
Donor Cultivation & Stewardship Events
- Coordinate and help establish new cultivation and stewardship events in support of the 2026/27 Opening Doors Capital Campaign and STARability Signature Events.
- Partner with the Philanthropy Department to design donor experiences that build relationships and support campaign engagement across all phases.
- Support stewardship touchpoints and recognition activities for capital campaign donors, in coordination with the Chief Philanthropy Officer, Major Gift Officer, Director of Fundraising Events, and campaign leadership.
General & Cross-Functional
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Philanthropy, Marketing, Programs) to maximize event deliverables and ensure consistent brand representation.
- Maintain accurate event records, budgets, and post-event reports/evaluations to inform future planning.
- Engage directly and professionally with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners.
- Represent STARability Foundation at community events and functions as needed, including some evenings and weekends.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Fundraising Events.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This position operates in a standard office environment with regular local travel to event venues throughout Naples and Collier County. Some evening and weekend work is required. Must be able to lift/move event materials up to 25 lbs. and remain on your feet for extended periods during event setup and execution.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Minimum of 5 years of experience managing multiple events simultaneously, ideally in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience in the non-profit sector is a plus but not required.
- Proven ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines with strong organizational and follow-up skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong command of the English language.
- Experience with Canva and Social Media engagement is considered an asset.
- Comfortable and confident engaging with donors, sponsors, and community members.
- Demonstrated creativity and attention to detail in event design and execution.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and with external partners.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and event/donor management software (e.g., Bloomerang or similar) preferred.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation; ability to work evenings and weekends as event schedules require.
- Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Please submit a cover letter with your resume, thank you!
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- What are your salary expectations or desired range for this position?
Work Location: In person
