Kesem Opens Applications for Manager, Foundation Relations Role — Apply by May 15, 2026
Kesem National is currently recruiting a Manager, Foundation Relations to join its remote Development team. The full-time position is open to candidates across the United States and focuses on expanding foundation partnerships that fund programs supporting children affected by a parent’s cancer. Applications are due by May 15, 2026, and submissions must be completed through the official application process.
For candidates requiring additional information or accessibility support, inquiries can be directed to: info@kesem.org
About Kesem and Its Mission
Kesem is a nationwide nonprofit organization that provides support to children navigating a parent’s cancer diagnosis. Its programs are designed to create safe, joyful, and empowering spaces where children can connect with peers who share similar experiences.
Led largely by college student volunteers, Kesem delivers camp-based and year-round programming that helps children build resilience, confidence, and community during a challenging time in their lives.
The Manager, Foundation Relations role plays a central part in sustaining these programs by securing funding from foundations and institutional donors.
Role Overview
The Manager, Foundation Relations is responsible for developing and managing Kesem’s foundation funding pipeline, which includes corporate, private, public, and family foundations. The role combines strategic fundraising with hands-on grant writing, reporting, and donor stewardship.
This position works closely with the Development and Leadership teams to ensure consistent revenue growth and long-term donor engagement.
Key focus areas include:
- Building and managing foundation donor pipelines
- Increasing grant revenue through structured applications
- Strengthening long-term institutional relationships
- Supporting national fundraising strategy and execution
Core Responsibilities
The role is structured across four key areas: pipeline development, grant writing, donor stewardship, and internal coordination.
Foundation Pipeline Development
The Manager is responsible for identifying, qualifying, and cultivating foundation prospects.
- Maintain a pipeline of approximately 60 active foundation leads
- Conduct prospect research using donor databases and research tools
- Identify new funding opportunities within existing donor networks
- Develop strategies to engage family and corporate foundations
Grant Writing and Proposals
A major component of the role involves developing persuasive and well-structured funding proposals.
- Prepare and submit 6–8 letters of inquiry or grant proposals per month
- Maintain a target win rate of approximately 10%
- Draft proposals, reports, budgets, and supporting materials
- Collaborate with program teams to gather impact data and stories
Donor Stewardship and Relationship Management
The role ensures strong communication and accountability with foundation partners.
- Serve as the primary contact for assigned foundation donors
- Maintain accurate grant calendars and reporting schedules
- Ensure timely submission of deliverables and updates
- Support leadership engagement in key donor relationships
Internal Coordination and Systems Management
The position requires close collaboration across departments to align funding with organizational priorities.
- Coordinate with finance teams on grant restrictions and reporting
- Work with program teams to gather updated impact information
- Support chapter-level fundraising tools and training resources
- Maintain accurate donor records in CRM systems
Required Qualifications
Kesem is seeking an experienced development professional with strong grant writing and fundraising expertise.
Minimum qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- At least 5 years of development experience
- Minimum 2 years focused on grant writing and institutional fundraising
- Strong written communication and storytelling ability
- Experience managing donor pipelines and deadlines
- Familiarity with CRM systems such as Salesforce or similar platforms
- Ability to work effectively in remote and distributed teams
Preferred experience includes:
- Background in nonprofit, youth services, or mission-driven organizations
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Ability to work independently in fast-paced environments
- Experience translating program outcomes into donor-facing narratives
Work Environment and Expectations
The position is fully remote and open to candidates across the United States. While flexible in location, the role requires active engagement across teams and time zones.
Expectations include:
- Full-time workload of approximately 40 hours per week
- Participation in donor meetings and staff calls, sometimes outside standard hours
- Occasional travel (4–6 times per year) within the United States
- Strong responsiveness and ability to manage multiple deadlines
The role is best suited for individuals who are comfortable balancing independent execution with cross-functional collaboration.
Organizational Values
Kesem’s culture is built on values that guide both internal operations and external impact. The Manager, Foundation Relations is expected to actively support and demonstrate these values:
- Continuous learning: Embracing growth through curiosity and feedback
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for outcomes and commitments
- Resilience: Supporting teams through challenges with optimism
- Empathy: Engaging respectfully with diverse perspectives and experiences
The organization also maintains a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all programs, partnerships, and hiring practices.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $67,000–$83,000 per year, depending on relevant experience.
Kesem also offers a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including:
- Employer-subsidized health insurance
- Dental and vision coverage options
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Paid time off and parental leave
- Flexible remote work arrangements
- Employee assistance and wellness programs
These benefits are designed to support employee well-being while enabling strong mission delivery.
Application Process
Applications are accepted until May 15, 2026, and reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.
To apply, candidates must submit a resume and cover letter through the official application portal.
For general inquiries or additional information, applicants may contact:
📧 info@kesem.org
Closing Overview
Kesem’s Manager, Foundation Relations role is a key fundraising position supporting programs that directly impact children facing a parent’s cancer diagnosis. The role combines strategy, writing, and relationship management in a mission-driven environment focused on long-term impact.
For experienced development professionals, it offers an opportunity to shape national fundraising efforts while contributing to a deeply meaningful cause centered on care, resilience, and community support.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding
