Manager of Sponsorship and Fundraising | Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA)

Chicago , Illinois, Join the team behind Chicago’s largest running community: The Chicago Area Runners Association, CARA, is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization committed to serving and advocating for the local running community. CARA is Chicago's largest running community, providing accessible opportunities for all to learn, be social, volunteer, train and race. With more than 10,000 members and over 1,300 program and event dates each year, CARA brings people together across Chicagoland to participate in running activities designed for all ages and ability levels. We’re looking for a Manager of Sponsorship, Fundraising & Charity Partnerships who is excited to help grow our impact. The Opportunity: As the Manager of Sponsorship and Fundraising you’ll play a key role in growing CARA’s relationships with sponsors, donors, nonprofit partners, runners, volunteers, and the broader Chicago community. You’ll lead sponsorship and fundraising initiatives, manage CARA’s charity partnership program, and help expand “Team CARA ‘Go Run ™”, our own fundraising team. You’ll also have the opportunity to grow into a leadership role overseeing volunteer recruitment and coordination across the organization. No two weeks will look exactly the same. One day might involve meeting with a potential sponsor, the next could be working with a nonprofit partner, brainstorming a new fundraising campaign, or cheering on runners at a CARA event. If you enjoy being out in the community, meeting people, building partnerships, and making things happen, this could be a great fit. Full Job Description   General: This role reports directly to the Executive Director. The position will be based out of CARA’s office in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood near the UIC campus. This is a full-time salaried position ($55,000) and includes CARA’s standard benefit package which includes health and dental insurance (100% covered by organization). CARA offers its staff an opportunity for a flexible work schedule outside of active programming hours. Due to the nature and timing of running events this person should expect to work outside of standard business hours, including mornings and/or weekends (10-15 per year). Due to weekend work requirements, Monday is a day off for the entire team. This person should be prepared for routine travel to local events, current and future CARA races (Miles Per Hour, Lakefront 10 Miler & 5K, Spring Trail Chase 10k, Chi-Town Miles, Ready to Run) and programs throughout the Chicagoland area. The position start date is immediate. To apply, email with subject line Manager of Sponsorship and Fundraising a cover letter, list of three references with contact information, and a link to applicants LinkedIn profile. In absence of a LinkedIn profile, a PDF resume will be accepted. Send application to tim@cararuns.org. No phone calls or in-person delivery of applications please. Letter of application should at minimum reflect an authentic interest in and understanding of this specific role.