The Opportunity
Cain Center for the Arts is a 501(c)3 organization with the mission of providing exceptional visual arts, performing arts, and social experiences to the Lake Norman Region. Founded in 2016, the organization operates two arts facilities in downtown Cornelius, NC, and offers programs in arts education, performing arts, and community impact.
Following an eight-year journey and a successful $25 million capital campaign, Cain Center for the Arts opened its new arts and community center in downtown Cornelius in January 2023. The 34,000-square-foot building sits upon a 1.6-acre site and includes a 400-seat. The site surrounding the center also includes a public plaza and downtown greenspace/park. The organization also operates the Cornelius Arts Center, directly behind the Cain Center, which is located in Historic Oak Street Mill. The Cornelius Arts Center houses a second art gallery, additional classrooms, and the very popular ceramics program.
More than just a place for the community to attend arts events and classes, Cain Center is committed to making the arts accessible to everyone in the Lake Norman Region. Through numerous community impact initiatives such as the Community Music Lesson Program, Arts in Schools program, and Arts & Communities Program, the center provided arts opportunities to over 5000 residents in 2022-2023.
Looking to the next stage in the organization, Cain Center for the Arts seeks a Development Director to lead its fundraising efforts. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Director will lead a dedicated team and create and execute a philanthropic vision that will sustain and expand Cain’s mission and programs.
The Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will have the following professional and personal qualities, skills, and characteristics:
Strategic Fund Development
The Development Director will have experience creating and implementing a strategic, diversified, and comprehensive approach to fundraising. In collaboration with the Executive Director and board leadership, they will lead the development plan to include innovative approaches to the cultivation, solicitation, tracking, and stewardship of individuals, corporations, foundations, and grant sources to meet or exceed annual department goals – $780K in FY23. Regular reporting on short and long-term goals will be implemented and monitored by the Development Director.
The Development Director will sustain a culture of philanthropy for the Cain Center by establishing a cultivation and stewardship plan that effectively engages all constituents and provides opportunities to deepen relationships that increase engagement and financial support.
Leadership and Management Skills
The Development Director will serve as staff leader of the Development Committee and leads the active engagement of the board in fundraising efforts. They will provide structure, research, and guidance to board members to support their fundraising efforts. The Director will participate in general staff meetings, providing input for decisions and identifying and communicating needs to Executive Director through a philanthropic lens. The Director will develop and manage the strategies and project work plans supported by a strong understanding of nonprofit financial reporting. The Development Director will oversee day-to-day operations of the Development department; overseeing administrative policies and operations that ensure excellent donor stewardship, including record keeping and gift acknowledgment; planning forecasting and managing income and expense budgets; and oversight and management of the donor database.
Community Engagement
The Development Director serves as a community ambassador and spokesperson for Cain Center for the Arts, ensuring a positive integration of marketing and development plans. They will serve as relationship-builder and storyteller in the community to highlight programming, exhibits, classes, and the Community Impact Program. Understanding the Lake Norman landscape is critical to strengthening and expanding partnerships in the community.
Team Leadership
The Development Director will have a strong background in team management and supervision within a high-growth nonprofit. The Director will supervise the development team, including the Development Associate and Donor & Patron Services Manager, and the volunteer program. The Director will provide coaching and create intentional policies and communication methods to cultivate a positive team culture. Formal and informal professional development opportunities will be encouraged to develop skills and experiences in support of Cain’s mission.
About the Organization
Cain Center for the Arts is a nonprofit arts and culture organization led by Executive Director Justin Dionne and an 18-member board of directors. Funded in part by $4 million allocated by voters in 2013, the Center is located on 1.6 acres in the town’s emerging arts district. Cain Center for the Arts bears the name of local philanthropists Bill and Ericka Cain, whose gift of $5 million serves as both a foundation and an inspiration.
Cain Center for the Arts offers performance, education, gallery, and community spaces designed to be beautiful, flexible, and close to home for the more than 300,000 residents of the growing Lake Norman region.
Cain Center Values
- Inspirational: To be a center that inspires and encourages creativity.
- Community-centered: To be a center that serves everyone. To expose, invite, and engage as a destination for all members of the community.
- Creative: To serve as a hub of creativity, providing a platform for unique and individual expression.
- Entertaining: To provide a holistic experience that produces valuable, enjoyable experiences while also focusing on comfort.
- Educational: To be a center where the arts and education connect.
Cain Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded through ticket sales, class and education tuition, philanthropic gifts, and local, state, and federal government grants.
Want to know more? Visit Cain’s website at cainarts.org.
Key lived experiences, attributes, and skillsets sought in the Development Director
- Demonstrated appreciation of the mission and work of Cain Center for the Arts.
- Demonstrated ability to think strategically with a thorough understanding of strategic development.
- Experience in management and design of fundraising programs, including donor solicitation strategy, proposal management, communications, donor selection and appreciation, and special events.
- Ability to build and sustain authentic relationships with diverse constituencies with integrity, warmth, and humor.
- Experience identifying cultivating, engaging, and stewarding existing and new donors to grow support for the mission.
- Proven track record of achieving revenue targets and/or performance metrics.
- Experience leading a well-organized, effective development office, fundraising systems, and record-keeping. Understanding of ticketing software and sponsorship models for arts organizations preferred.
- Communicate effectively via public speaking and interpersonal communication.
- Understanding of the philanthropic landscapes of the Lake Norman/North Mecklenburg area preferred.
- Must be self-motivated, results-oriented, and able to set priorities and work on numerous projects simultaneously.
- High energy, positive “can-do” attitude, curiosity, flexibility, teamwork, and attention to detail; high degree of initiative.
- Ability to commute to meet personally with potential donors in a variety of locations.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and at least five years of fundraising experience for a nonprofit organization or equivalent experience.
Think you are the next Development Director for Cain Center for the Arts?
Please provide all requested information to be considered. In case of any technical problems, contact [email protected]. No phone calls, please, and no applications will be accepted by email or directly from third-party posting sites.
Review of candidates will begin May 2023 and continue until the position is filled.
Salary is commensurate with the requirements of the position and is in the $80-90K range. Cain Center provides a generous benefits package including employer-sponsored medical insurance, PTO, paid holidays, and additional coverage options through their third-party HR provider.
The Cain Center for the Arts actively seeks a diverse pool of candidates. The Cain Center for the Arts is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or age.
Armstrong McGuire & Associates
Related jobs:
Casting Call: Lead Role for Film “Skrrrt!”
Job Description:
We are casting for the lead role in Skrrrt!, a short film that is part of the Proof of Concept Fellowship, supported by Cate Blanchett and Coco Francini’s Dirty Films in partnership with the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity. Skrrrt! is a heist film about a Latina high school student who plots to steal luxury cars to fund her education at Harvard after receiving a scholarship that doesn’t cover her caregiving needs. This short film will serve as a proof of concept for a larger feature or television project.
Role:
- Character: Lex
- Description: Latina, age 16 (18 to play younger), uses a powerchair due to a disability or chronic illness (e.g., muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy).
- Personality: Lex is a driven and ambitious high school student with a sharp mind and a strong sense of independence. She’s smart, confident, and a bit bossy, but ultimately she has a big heart and is motivated by a desire to create a better life for herself and her grandmother. Spanish-speaking is a plus but not required.
Job Responsibilities:
- Play the lead role of Lex in Skrrrt!, a film focusing on a high school student’s determination to overcome financial and physical barriers.
- Collaborate with the director and cast to bring Lex’s personality and journey to life.
- Act professionally on set and work effectively with the crew.
- Convey complex emotions and character depth as Lex navigates her heist plan.
Requirements:
- Actress must be 18 years or older, capable of portraying a 16-year-old character.
- Must be a powerchair user due to a disability or chronic illness.
- Open to Latina actresses (Spanish-speaking is a plus, but not required).
- Must have strong acting skills and the ability to portray a complex, multidimensional character.
- No previous acting experience is required; we are seeking talent who fit the role authentically.
- Note: The production will work with the selected actress to accommodate all accessibility needs.
Compensation Details:
- Union: SAG-AFTRA
- Rate: $241 per day (deferred payment)
- Shoot Dates: November 23 – 25, 2024
- Location: TBD
Casting Call: Music Video
Job Description:
We are seeking an elegant female model for a half-day music video shoot in Miami. The ideal candidate will have a sophisticated look and meet the specific criteria outlined below. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on a professional project for a well-known music artist.
Job Responsibilities:
- Participate as an on-camera talent in a music video.
- Follow direction from the production team to ensure the desired look and feel of the shoot is achieved.
- Maintain a professional attitude throughout the shoot.
Requirements:
- Female, age 30+
- Of European, American, or Latin descent.
- Slim fit, with beautiful skin and a captivating smile.
- Must be available to work for a half-day in Miami.
Compensation:
- Rate: $400 for a half-day shoot.
Casting Call: Models for Major YouTuber Video
Job Description:
We are seeking 8 confident and dynamic models (“Baddies”) to appear in a fun video shoot with a major YouTuber. The shoot will take place in downtown Orlando, FL. This is a paid opportunity for individuals looking to gain exposure and be part of a well-known content creator’s production.
Job Responsibilities:
- Appear on-camera as part of a YouTube video.
- Follow direction from the YouTuber and production team.
- Be punctual and professional throughout the shoot.
Requirements:
- Must be located in or able to travel to downtown Orlando, FL.
- Comfortable being on camera.
- Open to models of all looks and backgrounds.
Compensation:
- Rate: $100 for the shoot.
Casting Call: Hamilton – Nationwide Virtual Search
Job Description: The renowned musical Hamilton is conducting a nationwide virtual search for future replacements for all companies. We are seeking talented performers to fill the iconic roles of Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, and George Washington. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking production that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Job Responsibilities:
- Perform the role of Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, or George Washington in a professional musical theater production.
- Embody the complex characters of the Hamilton universe with passion, energy, and dedication.
- Collaborate with the cast and creative team to deliver powerful performances night after night.
- Commit to rehearsals, performances, and promotional activities as required.
Requirements:
- Performers of all ethnicities and body types, age 18+, are encouraged to submit.
- Both equity and non-equity performers are welcome to apply.
- Strong acting, singing, and stage presence are essential.
- Must be able to adapt to the fast-paced, high-energy demands of the show.
- Passion for the craft and the ability to work well in an ensemble.
Compensation Details:
- Competitive pay will be provided according to the role and production requirements.
- Equity and non-equity contracts available based on the performer’s status.
Casting Call: CASA of Arizona Commercial
Job Description: We are casting for a non-union, non-speaking commercial for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Arizona. This project highlights the importance of everyday community members advocating for children in need of care. We are looking for reliable background talent who can take direction well. The commercial offers unlimited usage rights, and the shoot will take place in Tucson, AZ.
Job Responsibilities:
- Participate as background talent in various scenes for the CASA of Arizona commercial.
- Follow directions provided by the production team on set.
- Be available for a full day of filming, with flexibility in your schedule.
Background Talent Requirements:
- Kids:
- Boys and girls, ages 5-16, any ethnicity.
- Adults:
- Males, ages 30’s, 50’s, and 65+, any ethnicity.
- Females, ages 30’s, 50’s, and 65+, any ethnicity.
Compensation:
- Rate: $350 flat rate (no travel compensation).
- Must work as a local hire in Tucson, AZ.
- Payment will be processed within 2 weeks of filming.
Casting Call: Killer Couples (Episode 1813)
Job Description: Oxygen Network is seeking an actress to portray Melissa, a key role in the upcoming episode of Killer Couples (Episode 1813). The project is a true crime recreation series with scripted scenes involving violence and murder content. This is a non-union production, and the actress must be comfortable with the themes of the series.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray Melissa, a late 20s-30s character with a thinner frame and shorter blonde hair.
- Perform scenes that involve reenactments of true crime scenarios, including scenes with scripted violence and murder content.
- Follow direction from the production team to ensure accurate and compelling recreations.
- Be available for both days of filming.
Requirements:
- Female actor, aged late 20s to 30s.
- Thinner frame and shorter blonde hair.
- Comfortable with scripted violence and murder content.
- Must be available for the full shoot schedule.
Compensation:
- Rate: $150 per day worked.
- Hotel accommodation provided.
Casting Call: Younger Version of Lead Actor
Job Description: New Mexico Casting Company is seeking a Black male actor aged 18-26 to portray the younger version of one of our lead actors in an upcoming project. This role requires a resemblance to the lead actor in appearance, specifically in terms of build and height.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray the younger version of a key character in a film or series.
- Follow the direction of the production team to accurately reflect the character’s demeanor and physicality.
- Participate in scenes that will showcase the character’s earlier life.
Requirements:
- Black male.
- Age range: 18-26 years old.
- Height: 5’9″.
- Must resemble the lead actor’s physical characteristics.
- No prior acting experience required but is a plus.
Compensation:
- Paid opportunity (specific rate will be provided upon selection).
Casting Call: SWAT Officer for Short Film
Job Description: We are seeking real US veterans based in New Mexico for two co-starring roles as SWAT officers in an upcoming short film. The project is produced by the Academy Award-winning Slick Films (The Silent Child) and Verus Studios (The One Note Man). The role requires individuals who can embody a stoic, commanding presence, with a disciplined and authoritative persona.
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a SWAT officer in a short film with professionalism and authenticity.
- Work closely with the director and other cast members to create a realistic and compelling character.
- Follow on-set directions and maintain the required physical performance.
Character Description:
- Role: SWAT Officer
- Age Range: 20s – 40s
- Attributes: Stoic, commanding, disciplined, physically fit, and inherently authoritative.
Requirements:
- Must be a real US veteran.
- Based in New Mexico.
- Good availability throughout November 2024.
- No previous acting experience necessary (though welcome).
- Open to submissions from all communities regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation.
Compensation:
- Union Status: This is a paid job under the SAG-AFTRA UPA agreement.
Casting Call: Teen Boys for Feature Film Background Role
Job Description: We are seeking teen boys ages 14-15 to play background roles in a feature film. The scene involves kids playing kickball in the street, and we need young talent to help bring this scene to life. This is a one-day shoot located in Syracuse, NY, with competitive compensation.
Job Responsibilities:
- Appear as background talent in a scene depicting kids playing kickball.
- Follow on-set directions from the production team to ensure a smooth shoot.
- Maintain professionalism and a positive attitude on set.
Requirements:
- Boys aged 14-15.
- Must have a valid child actor permit (12 months) or be willing to obtain a temporary 15-day permit.
- A parent or guardian (18 years or older) must accompany the teen and remain on set.
- Must be local to the Syracuse, NY area.
Compensation:
- Rate: $216 for the day.
Casting Call: Street Performers for “People We Meet on Vacation” Scene
Job Description: The production team of People We Meet on Vacation is looking for talented street performers of all types to be part of an exciting scene set in the French Quarter. We are seeking a variety of performers, including buskers, chess masters, poets for hire, frozen statues, and other romantic-themed street performers.
Job Responsibilities:
- Perform your street act during a scene for the film.
- Showcase your talent in an authentic street performance setting.
- Follow the direction of the production team to ensure a seamless shoot.
- Be punctual and professional on set.
Requirements:
- Street performers of all types, including:
- Buskers
- Chess masters
- Poets for hire
- Frozen statues
- Other romantic-themed street performers
- Must be able to provide photos of yourself in action.
Compensation:
- Paid opportunity (details will be provided upon selection).
Casting Call: Little Girls for Beauty Brand Commercial
Job Description: Stilwell Casting is seeking energetic little girls who love to run for an exciting new commercial for a popular beauty brand. This is a fun opportunity for 3-5 year old girls to appear in a paid commercial shoot. We are looking for young girls with lots of energy who enjoy being active and running around!
Job Responsibilities:
- Participate in a commercial shoot portraying playful, active children.
- Follow the direction of the production team during filming.
- Run and play in outdoor or indoor settings as part of the role.
- Showcase energy and enthusiasm on camera.
Requirements:
- Girls aged 3-5 years old.
- Must love running and being active.
- Able to follow simple directions and remain focused on set.
- No prior acting experience required.
Compensation:
- Paid opportunity (details will be provided upon selection).
Casting Call: Bodybuilders for Netflix Series “Poker Face”
Job Description: GWCI is seeking background extras to portray bodybuilders in an upcoming Netflix series, Poker Face. This role requires individuals who can realistically portray bodybuilders in a gym setting. If you’re physically fit and comfortable working in a gym environment, this is a great opportunity to work on a major streaming platform project!
Job Responsibilities:
- Portray a bodybuilder at the gym in various scenes for a Netflix series.
- Follow on-set directions from the production team to ensure a smooth shoot.
- Maintain a professional and punctual attitude while on set.
- Collaborate with the cast and crew to help achieve the desired gym atmosphere.
Requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must be physically fit and able to portray a bodybuilder.
- Must not have worked on this season of Poker Face.
- Local to the NYC metro area (travel and lodging not provided).
- Must be available for multiple dates as specified.
- Able to provide accurate wardrobe measurements.
- Must present valid ID to fill out a federal I9 form for payment.
Compensation:
- Rate: $216 for 8 hours (overtime applies after 8 hours).