Director of Philanthropy

Mission Statement

The mission of WomenShelter of Long Beach (WSLB) is to eliminate domestic violence through compassionate intervention, education, and personal empowerment.

About Us

Since 1977, WSLB has helped thousands of women, men, and children overcome the trauma caused by domestic abuse. WSLB assists families by providing safe housing, counseling, case management, education, health, and legal advocacy at no cost. To empower future generations, WSLB also provides “Healthy Relationships” and “Teen Dating Violence” prevention education in middle schools, high schools, and colleges throughout Long Beach and surrounding areas.

History and Background

WSLB was founded by Dr. Virginia Corbett in 1977. In 1999, the agency opened the Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC), the first community-based, storefront counseling and resource center in Greater Long Beach—offering easily accessible outreach services. WSLB continues to provide compassionate, trauma-informed, and survivor-centered services to those impacted by domestic violence.

WomenShelter of Long Beach (WSLB) is seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Director of Philanthropy to join our Executive Affairs team.

This key role will lead and support grant writing, donor stewardship, and fundraising events to help advance WSLB’s mission. The ideal candidate is a strong writer, relationship builder, and event coordinator who can work both independently and collaboratively to sustain and grow funding from institutional and individual supporters. The perfect person thrives on cultivating donors/sponsors, forging meaningful partnerships, and ensuring each supporter feels valued and inspired by their impact.

Key Responsibilities

Grants (25%)

Research, write, and submit compelling proposals and reports to private foundations, corporations, and government funders.

Track grant requirements, deadlines, and deliverables.

Assist with budget development and compliance reporting in collaboration with the Director of Development.

Donor Stewardship (30%)

Maintain donor records, track engagement, and generate personalized acknowledgment letters.

Execute stewardship strategies, including thank-you calls and handwritten notes.

Collaborate with program staff to gather impact stories to connect donors to the mission.

Manage the donor database (e.g., Little Green Light) and generate reports.

Events (35%)

Plan and manage fundraising and cultivation events (logistics, vendor coordination, sponsorships).

Oversee event marketing, promotion, and follow-up.

Lead sponsorship solicitation and ensure benefits are fulfilled.

Documentation & Compliance (10%)

Ensure compliance with funder and agency requirements.

Maintain accurate records to support audits and grant reviews.

Desired Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, or related field preferred

6+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or grant writing

Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills

Knowledge of CRM systems, familiarity with DonorPerfect and WealthEngine

Available to work occasional evenings and weekends

Valid CA driver’s license and auto insurance

Desired Skills & Attributes

Excellent organizational and time management skills

Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills

Detail-oriented and deadline-driven

Confident with public speaking and donor engagement

Commitment to trauma-informed values, equity, and the mission of WSLB

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Able to climb stairs and lift/carry up to 25 lbs.

Willingness to work evenings or weekends as needed

Not sure you meet 100% of the qualifications?

Research shows that men apply when they meet about 60% of the criteria, while women and systematically marginalized groups only apply if they meet nearly all. If this role excites you and you believe you can make a difference, we encourage you to apply. We’re committed to building an inclusive and diverse team and want to hear from individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences.

Reasonable Accommodation

WSLB is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that people with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the HR team at hr@WomenShelterLB.org.