Director of Development at MorningStar Mission Joliet

Called to Lead with Purpose?
Make this the year your leadership changes lives. Your passion for building relationships and advancing mission-driven impact can help shape the future of a life-transforming rescue mission.

We are seeking a visionary Director of Development to join our leadership team—someone who is driven to inspire generosity, cultivate meaningful partnerships, and secure the resources needed to bring hope, healing, and lasting change to those we serve.

If you are passionate about fundraising, ministry, and making an eternal impact, this is more than a job—it’s a calling.

Answer the call. Help us create a brighter tomorrow.

Position Summary:  The Director of Development is a strategic, relationship-driven leader who advances MorningStar Mission’s impact by inspiring generosity, building community partnerships, and securing resources for lasting ministry growth. This key leadership role is an opportunity to combine faith, purpose, and fundraising to transform lives throughout Will County.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and execute strategic fundraising initiatives to grow donor support and advance MorningStar Mission’s long-term impact.
• Build and strengthen relationships with donors, churches, businesses, and community partners throughout Will County.
• Manage and mentor Development staff while fostering a Christ-centered, mission-driven culture.
• Plan and oversee fundraising events, donor engagement efforts, and communication materials.
• Collaborate with senior leadership and the Board to achieve development goals and communicate ministry impact.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Passionate Christian leader with a heart for serving the homeless and advancing the mission of MorningStar Mission.
• Proven fundraising and relationship-building experience with the ability to inspire donor engagement and achieve development goals.
• Strong written, verbal, and public speaking skills with the ability to communicate vision in a compelling and persuasive way.
• Highly organized and proactive leader capable of managing multiple projects, staff, events, and deadlines effectively.
• Professional, ethical, and collaborative team player with knowledge of community engagement, donor communications, and social media platforms.
• Position is Monday - Friday plus occasional evenings and weekend events.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in business, nonprofit management, public relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of related leadership and fundraising experience.
• Committed Christian with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and alignment with MorningStar Mission’s faith-based mission and values.

• Salary starting targeted at $70,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive BCBS health coverage with employer-funded HRA assistance; resulting in a $900 out of pocket maximum per year in-network
• 100% employer-paid dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match after one year
• Generous paid time off, including 14 paid holidays annually
• Additional perks include employee thrift store discounts and complimentary meals during shifts