Special Events Coordinator

Make-A-Wish Idaho is a cherished nonprofit organization dedicated to granting the wishes of children facing critical illnesses throughout the state of Idaho. Established in 1986, the chapter has a profound history of fulfilling over 2,200 wishes, making a significant positive impact on children and their families. As an independent chapter of Make-A-Wish America, Make-A-Wish Idaho combines the resources and brand recognition of a global organization with a unique grassroots approach to its mission. This approach ensures that each wish is personalized and meaningful, fostering a sense of hope, strength, and joy in the lives of the children served. The organization prides itself on core values such as integrity, respect, open communication, loyalty, and gratitude, all centered around improving lives through the transformative magic of a wish.

The role of Special Events Coordinator at Make-A-Wish Idaho is pivotal in driving the chapter's fundraising and community engagement efforts. Reporting directly to the Director of Development, the position is based in Boise, Idaho, and offers a hybrid work environment that combines remote flexibility with regular onsite presence. This full-time, exempt role carries a competitive salary range of $42,000 to $45,000 annually, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package.

The core responsibility of the Special Events Coordinator is to orchestrate the planning, coordination, and execution of key internal special events while maximizing the impact of external events to elevate Make-A-Wish Idaho's presence statewide. This includes managing established fundraising initiatives such as Serving Up Wishes, Polar Bear Challenge, Walk for Wishes events in Idaho Falls and Twin Falls, Wine for Wishes, Kids for Wish Kids, Wishes in Flight, and National Corporate Partnerships. Each event is strategically designed to maximize revenue and foster strong community connections, playing an integral role in the chapter's development goals.

In this role, the Special Events Coordinator collaborates closely with the Director of Development to implement annual development goals and strategic plans. The position involves cultivating philanthropic engagement across individuals, foundations, and schools statewide, spearheading initiatives that enhance donor relationships, volunteer involvement, and community awareness. The coordinator provides direction, oversight, and coaching to volunteer fundraising chairs and committees, ensuring each event's logistics are seamless and aligned with budgetary constraints. Essential functions include developing event budgets, resource materials, training volunteer leaders, and maintaining accurate records of donations.

Evaluating the effectiveness of events and fundraising platforms through participant feedback and performance analysis is a key component of this position. The coordinator tracks progress toward fundraising goals, offers regular updates to leadership, and ensures Make-A-Wish Idaho's representation and donor recognition at external events. The use of donor information systems is critical for managing relationships and monitoring development activities, while recruitment and training of fundraising volunteers help build a sustainable and engaged volunteer base.

Strong project and time management skills are essential, along with excellent communication, organizational, computer, and presentation abilities. Candidates should possess a passion for the Make-A-Wish mission and demonstrate the ability to professionally represent the organization within the community. Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, and travel as needed is required. A Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in a related field is preferred, with at least three years of business experience or nonprofit fundraising experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Make-A-Wish Idaho offers an inclusive environment that values teamwork and encourages all qualified individuals to apply. The Special Events Coordinator role is instrumental in advancing the chapter's mission while fostering a vibrant and supportive community dedicated to bringing hope to children in need.