Who We Are

Founded in 1972, Environmental Traveling Companions (ETC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that makes the joy and challenge of outdoor adventure accessible to people with disabilities and youth from under-resourced backgrounds. Through Sea Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, and Youth LEAD programs, ETC provides educational and transformational outdoor experiences that build self-confidence, foster connection to nature, and inspire environmental stewardship.

ETC serves over 3,000 participants annually, supported by more than 250 dedicated volunteers, an engaged Board of Directors, and partnerships with over 110 agencies, nonprofits, and schools.

ETC is headquartered at Fort Mason in San Francisco, with program operations in Sausalito, Tomales Bay, the American River, and the Sierra backcountry. ETC has a year-round staff of eight, expanding to nearly 30 staff during peak summer months. We prioritize supporting historically marginalized communities in all aspects of our organization.

Job Description

ETC is expanding our development team and seeking an experienced Director of Individual Giving to design, grow, and execute a robust individual major donor program. The ideal candidate is a driven, strategic fundraiser who is energized by building relationships, creating thoughtful engagement pathways, and working both independently and collaboratively to drive growth. The Director of Individual Giving will report directly to the Executive Director and work closely with other members of the Development team, as well as collaborate meaningfully with ETCs Board of Directors to strengthen and leverage board-driven fundraising efforts. This full-time, exempt position follows a hybrid schedule, with regular work occurring in the office, remotely and in the field.

Job Duties

Donor Cultivation & Solicitation

• Design and execute a comprehensive, donor-centered major gifts program focused on $10,000+ annual gifts.
• Identify, cultivate, grow and steward ETC’s existing portfolio of major donors independently and in partnership with the Executive Director and the Board.
• Conduct at least 100 meaningful donor interactions annually in collaboration with the Executive Director and Development team, with the goal of building deep, lasting relationships and securing significant support.
• Expand the giving capacity of annual community events such as the Gala, Benefit Trips, Regatta and Year-End Appeal.
• Serve as a visible ambassador for ETC at donor meetings, community events, program visits, and partner gatherings to deepen relationships and expand brand visibility.
• Collaborate with ETCs Board of Directors to activate their networks, providing board members with tailored strategies, training, and support to maximize outreach and philanthropic impact.
• Apply an equity-centered fundraising approach that honors donor intent while centering ETCs mission and the communities we serve.

Strategy & Engagement

• In collaboration with the Executive Director and Development Committee, develop and implement comprehensive major gifts strategies aligned with organizational priorities and annual development goals.
• Establish measurable goals and KPIs for donor identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities.
• Serve as a strategic thought partner to the Executive Director on individual giving, long-term donor strategy, and revenue forecasting.
• Analyze donor data and giving trends to refine strategies, identify opportunities, and forecast revenue outcomes.
• Create customized cultivation and solicitation plans for high-potential donors and prospects.
• Partner in the planning and execution of donor engagement events, including ETCs annual gala and 24 bespoke cultivation events each year.
• Design and produce compelling digital and print collateralincluding a new major donor brochureto support donor engagement and storytelling.

Reporting & Data Management

• Maintain accurate, timely records of all donor interactions in ETCs Salesforce database.
• Prepare donor contact reports, gift documentation, proposals, and stewardship materials as needed.
• Ensure the confidentiality, accuracy, and integrity of donor data and reporting.
• Use data insights to inform strategy, improve donor retention, and increase lifetime donor value.