Development & Events Manager

About Vista Life Innovations For more than 35 years, Vista Life Innovations has supported adults with disabilities in building independent lives, finding meaningful work, and becoming active members of their communities. Our programs are grounded in a person-centered philosophy, meeting each individual where they are and supporting them toward greater independence at every stage of life. The Role Vista is seeking a Development & Events Manager to lead and support the organization’s fundraising, donor engagement, and community event initiatives. This role plays a key part in advancing Vista’s mission by planning and executing fundraising events, cultivating relationships with donors and community partners, and supporting development operations that strengthen organizational impact. The ideal candidate is highly organized, relationship-oriented, detail-driven, and comfortable balancing event management with fundraising strategy and donor engagement in a mission-driven environment. What You’ll Do Plan, coordinate, and execute fundraising and community events from concept through post-event wrap‑up. Develop event timelines, project plans, run‑of‑show documents, and manage logistics to ensure successful implementation. Build and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, community members, local businesses, and community organizations. Serve as a frontline fundraiser by engaging with families, community members, current donors, and prospective supporters. Support donor cultivation, stewardship, and engagement efforts in collaboration with development leadership. Recruit, train, and coordinate volunteer leadership, event committees, and day‑of‑event volunteers. Develop and manage event budgets, track expenses, and maintain financial oversight for fundraising initiatives. Act as a liaison with community groups, Chambers of Commerce, local businesses, and external partners to enhance visibility and community engagement. Represent Vista professionally while upholding the organization’s mission, values, and commitment to the community. What We’re Looking For Bachelor’s degree preferred in Marketing, Communications, Business, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, or a related field. Experience in fundraising, donor relations, nonprofit development, or event management required. Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong relationship-building abilities. Strong technical skills, including Microsoft Office and familiarity with donor databases and event management software. Why Vista This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping advance Vista’s mission through fundraising, community engagement, and donor stewardship. We offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance; company‑paid life and AD&D coverage; long‑term disability; a 403(b) with employer contributions and match; generous accrued PTO; an Employee Assistance Program; and a wellness incentive program. A full benefits summary is available upon request. Salary: $61,200 annually, commensurate with experience Location: Madison, CT | Status: Full-time, Exempt Reports to: VP of Development & Communications Vista Life Innovations is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. Vista and the CT Shoreline #J-18808-Ljbffr