Devon Lawson, an 18-year-old first-generation college student, restaurant manager, and founder/chair of Springfield Climate & Resilience Watch (SCRW), is running for the At Large 2 Director position on the Upper Willamette Soil and Water Conservation District (UWSWCD) Board in Lane County, Oregon. Recognized as the Best Emerging Democratic Leader in Springfield for 2025, Devon is a passionate advocate for climate resilience, equitable water resource management, and sustainable agriculture. He's challenging incumbent Karl Morgenstern, a long-time watershed expert and current board member with deep roots in local conservation efforts. This 2026 election campaign aims to win 65% of the vote and significantly boost voter turnout in this non-partisan race by mobilizing communities around soil and water conservation, wildfire recovery, and environmental justice. Join a dynamic, youth-led effort to bring fresh perspectives to local governance!
We are seeking an experienced Fundraising Director to drive resource development for Devon Lawson's UWSWCD campaign. This part-time role will focus on securing funds to support voter outreach, ads, mailers, and education initiatives critical for boosting turnout and achieving our 65% vote goal. The ideal candidate is a proactive fundraiser with a track record in political or nonprofit campaigns, passionate about environmental causes.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement a fundraising strategy, including donor outreach, cultivation, and stewardship to build a sustainable funding base.
Organize and execute fundraising events, such as virtual webinars, community gatherings, or donor receptions tailored to conservation themes.
Identify and pursue grants from environmental organizations, foundations, and PACs (e.g., Sierra Club, Oregon Environmental Council, or local sustainability funds).
Manage donor databases, track contributions, and ensure compliance with Oregon campaign finance laws in coordination with the treasurer.
Collaborate with the campaign manager and team to align fundraising with overall goals, such as fueling GOTV efforts and voter education on soil/water issues.
Set and meet fundraising targets to support ads, mailers, digital outreach, and field operations in Lane County.
Build relationships with potential donors, including individuals, businesses, and groups aligned with climate resilience and equity.
Requirements and Qualifications
2+ years of experience in fundraising for political campaigns, nonprofits, or environmental advocacy (e.g., grant writing, donor solicitation).
Proven success in raising funds through diverse channels, with knowledge of tools like ActBlue, NGP VAN, or similar platforms.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for pitching to donors and organizing events.
Familiarity with Oregon election finance regulations and conservation funding sources.
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, goal-oriented environment.
Commitment to progressive values, equity, and sustainability; experience in youth-led or grassroots movements is a plus.
Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, political science, or related field preferred, but equivalent experience accepted.
This role offers a chance to fund impactful change in local environmental policy.
This role is hybrid/remote-friendly, with a strong preference for candidates based in or near Lane County, Oregon, to facilitate in-person activities like donor events and meetings in the Eugene-Springfield area. No dedicated office space; work from home or co-working spaces as needed.