Chief Development Officer (CDO)

About To Proudly Go Inc.

To Proudly Go Inc. is dedicated to creating safe and supportive spaces that celebrate science fiction, promote the LGBTQIA+ community, and partner with important community causes to empower and foster a kinder, better world. Through community-driven programming, fundraising events, and creative partnerships, To Proudly Go builds joyful, affirming spaces that translate fandom into real-world impact.

To Proudly Go began with a simple but powerful idea: to support the LGBTQIA+ community through donations to organizations working on queer issues that help build a better world today. We celebrate science fiction—particularly Star Trek —as storytelling that demonstrates the generosity and compassion of the human spirit and its power to create harmony, peace, and longevity. We believe in a vision of the future where everyone, regardless of their unique circumstances, can find unity and purpose, expand their knowledge, and improve the human condition.

To Proudly Go is a volunteer-operated nonprofit incorporated in New York State on March 1, 2021, with an annual operating budget of approximately $11,000.

Our Impact

• 195+ events fostering community, joy, and queer visibility.
• $15,000+ donated to community-based charities.
• Nearly 80% of spending dedicated to programs and charitable work.
• Growing partnerships across LGBTQIA+, health, food justice, and youth empowerment sectors.
• Inclusive, welcoming spaces for connection, creativity, and support.

These outcomes are made possible through strong volunteer leadership, thoughtful operations, and community-centered business practices.

Position Summary

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) serves as the organization’s senior officer responsible for fundraising strategy, charitable partnerships, and development compliance. Working collaboratively with the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Communications Officer and others. The CDO leads efforts to grow and steward financial resources that advance To Proudly Go’s mission and long-term sustainability.

This role is both strategic and hands-on, overseeing fundraising campaigns, partner charity relationships, donation policy enforcement, and voluntary transparency initiatives. The CDO plays a key role in ensuring ethical fundraising practices, regulatory awareness, and alignment with nonprofit best practices.

Key Responsibilities

The Chief Communications Officer (CCO) is responsible for executive-level leadership and strategic oversight of the organization’s communications and public-facing functions. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of annual and/or bi-annual fundraising campaigns in collaboration with organizational leadership.
• Support and participate in fundraising initiatives tied to events, digital campaigns, donor appeals, and special initiatives.
• Identify, evaluate, and pursue new fundraising opportunities, including but not limited to:
  • Workplace giving programs (e.g., NYC Gives or similar federal/state payroll deduction programs)
  • Corporate matching gift programs
  • Corporate sponsorships and partnerships
  • Grant opportunities and foundation funding
• Serve as the primary point of contact for partner charitable organizations receiving donations or support from To Proudly Go.
• Conduct due diligence on current and prospective partner organizations to ensure compliance with minimum standards, including charitable status, governance, mission alignment, and ethical practices.
• Oversee the To Proudly Go’s donation policy.
• Assist with voluntary reporting and profile maintenance for nonprofit transparency and rating organizations, such as Candid (GuideStar), Charity Navigator, and similar platforms.
• Contribute development the of the organization’s annual report and strategic plan..
• Collaborate closely with the CEO, CCO, and CFO to ensure fundraising, communications, and financial efforts are aligned.
• Provide regular updates and reports related to fundraising performance, partner organizations, and development initiatives.
• Support a culture of ethical fundraising, accountability, and transparency throughout the organization.
• Other duties as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Time Commitment: Approximately 20 hours per month

Location: New York City–based (hybrid / volunteer)

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate brings a mix of experience, curiosity, and passion for service. While prior experience is helpful, we value commitment, growth, and collaboration just as highly.

Preferred Experience (not required):

• At least one (1) year of experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Nonprofit development or advancement
  • Fundraising or sales
  • Grants management
  • Nonprofit management or compliance
• Familiarity with charitable giving programs, donor stewardship, or fundraising platforms is preferred.

Core Qualities:

• Passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ communities and mission-driven work.
• Strategic thinker and problem solver who enjoys building systems and improving processes.
• Creative, adaptable, and not afraid to take on unfamiliar challenges.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Team-oriented leader who values learning, professional development, and shared success.
• Comfortable working in a flexible, evolving, volunteer-run environment that balances structure with adaptability .

Benefits of Volunteering with To Proudly Go

While this is an unpaid volunteer position, benefits include:

• Executive-level professional development in nonprofit operations and leadership.
• Training and networking opportunities with community leaders, creatives, performers, and partner organizations (as available).
• Access to ticket discounts for theatre and cultural events (including opportunities through partner programs, when available).
• Meaningful, empowering work supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and charitable causes.
• Opportunities to learn, grow, and innovate in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
• The chance to help shape a growing nonprofit with a visible and joyful community presence.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a résumé or summary of relevant experience (professional and/or volunteer) and cover letter.

To Proudly Go Inc. is an equal opportunity volunteer organization and encourages applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply.