Foundation Associate

Position Summary

The Jewish Federation seeks a highly organized, relationship-oriented Foundation Associate to support and expand Legacy Giving, Donor Advised Funds (DAFs), and planned giving initiatives. This role is critical to strengthening donor stewardship, diversifying revenue streams, and advancing Federation’s mission through high-quality service, operational excellence, and meaningful engagement with donors and partners.

The Foundation Associate will work closely with the Director, Legacy Giving and collaborate across Development, Finance, and Marketing & Communications to grow philanthropic impact, enhance donor confidence, and support long-term sustainability.

Objectives of the Role

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) & Philanthropic Services

Provide exceptional day-to-day customer service to Donor Advised Fund holders

Support the expansion of the DAF program, including development of incentive initiatives

Partner closely with the Finance team to ensure accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence

Lead the re-launch of the Teen Tzedek program in partnership with synagogue and community partners

Legacy Society & Planned Giving

Establish and staff a Legacy Society that recognizes, celebrates, and deepens relationships with planned giving donors

Support stewardship strategies that engage multi-generational families and long-term donors

Assist with tracking, documentation, and reporting related to legacy and planned gifts

Professional Advisor Engagement

Support a Professional Advisor program that educates attorneys, financial planners, and other advisors on philanthropic opportunities

Help cultivate a trusted network of advisors who can advocate for Federation and its mission

Communications & Marketing Collaboration

Partner with Marketing and Communications to update planned giving collateral and donor-facing materials

Maintain accurate, current planned giving and legacy content on the Federation website

Support preparation of regular communications for planned giving prospects, donors, and advisors

Team & Organizational Support

Provide administrative and operational support that increases capacity for the Director, Legacy Giving

Collaborate across departments to ensure consistent, donor-centered processes and messaging

Support Development Department initiatives as needed

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required; background in nonprofit development, Jewish communal organizations, or philanthropy preferred

2–4 years of relevant experience in nonprofit administration, development, finance, or donor services

Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and follow-through skills

High level of professionalism, discretion, and customer service orientation

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Familiarity with donor databases, CRM systems, or financial portals a plus

Knowledge of Jewish philanthropy, values, and community highly desirable

Proficiency with database systems and constituent relationship management software (e.g., Blackbaud or Salesforce) and Microsoft Office.

Knowledge of Jewish community, culture, and traditions; familiarity with St. Louis Jewish community preferred.

Demonstrated ability to use data to achieve strategic outcomes.

Strong organizational, strategic planning, and relationship-building skills.

Team-oriented and collaborative mindset.

Core Competencies

Donor stewardship & relationship management

Cross-functional collaboration

Operational excellence and accuracy

Communication and project coordination

Mission-driven mindset

About the Jewish Federation of St. Louis

The Jewish Federation of St. Louis, founded in 1901, is one of the region’s largest and oldest nonprofit organizations.   The Jewish Federation of St. Louis is a community-driven organization that mobilizes resources, connects organizations, and builds collaborations to support and

strengthen Jewish life in St. Louis, in Israel, and around the world. Our work is guided by Jewish values, a commitment to inclusion, and a vision of a thriving, engaged Jewish community for generations to come.  As the community’s central philanthropic and planning body, it supports over 100 local, national, and international agencies, programs, and initiatives to strengthen and sustain a vibrant Jewish community.

Benefits

Health and dental insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Generous PTO (vacation, holidays, sick leave, personal time)

Life and long-term disability insurance

And more