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The Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic schools serve more than 40,000 students in 150+ elementary and high schools in Cook and Lake counties. It is one of the largest private school systems in the United States. Its schools have received 96 Blue Ribbon awards from the U.S. Department of Education over the past 10 years.
Our Lady of the Wayside Parish is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven professional to serve in the newly created role of Director of Stewardship & Development. This individual will work closely with the Pastor and Operations Director, while collaborating with the Principal and School Marketing & Development Director, to advance the parish’s mission through strategic communication, relationship-building, and fundraising initiatives.
The Director will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, year-round stewardship plan focused on storytelling, community engagement, and cultivating generosity. This role is instrumental in fostering a relationship-based culture that inspires parishioners and stakeholders to actively support the parish through their time, talent, and treasure.
Key Responsibilities:
Stewardship & Development
- Develop and implement a comprehensive stewardship strategy to increase engagement and philanthropic support across the parish.
- Lead initiatives that promote intentional giving, including offertory programs, online giving, and planned giving efforts.
- Plan and execute fundraising campaigns, special events, and appeals to secure financial and in-kind support.
- Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with current and prospective donors.
Operations & Collaboration
- Partner with the Operations Director to manage and execute second collections and special collections throughout the year.
- Prepare and oversee grant applications and funding opportunities.
- Participate in Parish Finance Council meetings, as appropriate.
- Collaborate with pastoral staff, parish leadership, and volunteer groups to ensure alignment in messaging and engagement efforts.
Communications & Engagement
- Develop and manage a year-round communications calendar that supports both fundraising and community-building initiatives.
- Create and edit compelling content for various platforms, including annual reports, bulletins, emails, proposals, and social media.
- Establish a consistent and engaging parish voice that reflects the mission and vision of Our Lady of the Wayside.
Community Building & Sustainability
- Recruit, train, and lead volunteers and event committees.
- Continuously identify and engage new prospects, volunteers, and partners while strengthening relationships with existing supporters.
- Develop short-term and long-term fundraising goals aligned with parish financial needs.
- Represent the parish in presentations to community, business, and civic groups.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 5+ years of experience in development, fundraising, or related leadership roles (nonprofit or parish experience preferred).
- Proven ability to build relationships and engage diverse stakeholders.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with donor engagement, event planning, and community partnerships.
- Proficiency with digital tools, databases, and social media platforms.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and highly collaborative with a positive, team-focused mindset.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
Faith & Community Expectations:
- Active member of Our Lady of the Wayside Parish or a similar Catholic community.
- Strong understanding of and commitment to the mission of the Catholic Church.
- Demonstrated appreciation for the role of community-building in a faith-based environment.
- Ability to serve as a positive and enthusiastic ambassador for the parish.
About Our Lady of the Wayside Parish:
Our Lady of the Wayside Parish is a vibrant Roman Catholic community of nearly 3,000 households serving Arlington Heights and the surrounding Northwest suburbs of Chicago. Rooted in faith and community, the parish offers a wide range of spiritual, educational, and social opportunities for parishioners of all ages.
The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here.
This position has an hourly range of $20.00- $30.00. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on many factors including but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.
