Development Associate, Ridgefield Library (Ridgefield, CT)

Posted November 21, 2025

Job Description

The Development Associate supports all Library operations with the responsibility for the management
of the Library’s donor database, including data/gift entry and acknowledgement, maintaining the
integrity, confidentiality and accuracy of all donor information, and processing, reconciling and
reporting donation transactions. The Development Associate takes a key role with fundraising
events. This position reports to the Development Director and is expected to use independent
judgement.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Donor Database Management

• Maintain the Library’s Bloomerang donor database, including data input, reporting, data
  analysis, list creation, database hygiene and annual database administration.
• Data input of donations made by check, DAFs, matching gift companies and other online
  giving platforms.
• Process and prepare print acknowledgement letters for all donations.
• Prepare donation reports on a monthly basis.
• Perform data analytics as needed.
• Data input of new library cardholders on a monthly basis.
• Update major donor profiles with engagement notes and data.
• Run reports on lapsed donors and prospects for targeted follow up by Directors.

Fundraising Event Planning and Production

• Work with Development Director in establishing and maintaining an annual calendar of
  Development events.
• Manage fundraising events within the donor database, including creating invitation lists and
  email distribution lists in Excel, creating event web pages and event forms; managing sponsor
  and attendee data entry and communication. Prepare and manage donor
  acknowledgements and financial reports.
• Oversee key production tasks and timelines of the annual Gala, in collaboration with the
  Development Director, Gala Committee and Library staff.
• Manage onsite event logistics involving event set-up, event breakdown, procurement of
  supplies, vendor oversight and attendee check-in process
• Manage production of Gala program book, including procuring ad files from sponsors, paid
  advertisers and Library departments; coordinating advertising sales and payment processing;
  procuring page content from Library staff; and working with a graphic designer on design and
  revisions.
• Manage event vendors from initial outreach to onsite point-of-contact to invoice processing.
• Engage and communicate with community volunteers for hands-on support in the production
  of the Gala and other donor-focused events.
• Develop all event signage and donor welcome collateral
• Coordinate production of donor awards, recognition plaques

Required Knowledge & Skills

• Exceptional accuracy in work and attention to detail.
• Exceptional integrity, professionalism and confidentiality
• Experience working in fundraising at non-profit organization(s).
• Proficiency in use of donor CRMs and Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
• Ability to learn, navigate and troubleshoot new technology platforms with a high degree of
  independence.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Ability to deal tactfully, courteously and effectively with donors and colleagues.
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects.
• Ability to learn and adhere to all Library policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• Two (2) years of experience in a similar position OR completion of a bachelor’s degree in a
  related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Education and/or
  experience must demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities listed above.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
  Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and the ability to push and pull objects weighing up to 80 pounds
  on wheels.

Hours and Compensation

Salary range is $53,000-$57,000/year with an attractive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and 401K retirement savings plan with a generous organizational match.  This is a full-time position scheduled for 35 hours per week. Schedule will occasionally include an evening or weekend shift. Detailed job description available here.

How to Apply

Please email a meaningful cover letter and resume to Laura Zolotorofe, Executive Assistant/Facilities Manager, [email protected] by 5:00pm on Friday, December 19, 2025.