COVER LETTER: Dear Ms. Kleinhandler, In a time when both our collective and individual vulnerability is evident, now more than ever, it is vital we keep equality and justice as our guiding principal. Throughout my career, I have worked to lift up individuals and communities so they can thrive on their own terms. Working at the ACLU was thrilling because it afforded the opportunity to ensure freedom itself was protected. However, as you will see from my resume, my passion lies in direct service. No other organization in New York ensures we, as a city, hold true to justice, equality, and fairness for all than The Legal Aid Society. It would be an honor to put my fundraising experience to use in service of your mission. In my role as Director of Major Gifts for IPPF/WHR, I enjoyed the responsibility of building a major gifts program from the ground up, and personally secured the first-ever seven-figure gift, and doubled major gift revenue. In addition, I gently shifted the organization to embrace a culture of philanthropy, which included advocating to senior management and the Board the need to invest in fundraising operations and staff expansion which resulted in surpassing fundraising goals year over year. As Director of Development for Major and Principal Gifts at Montefiore Einstein, I managed an eleven-member frontline fundraising team of principal and major gift officers, alumni and annual gift program, and administrative assistants. At Center for Employment Opportunities, the most significant part of my role was stabilizing and expanding foundation revenue, securing $12.8 million. I had the added responsibility of re-building the Communications unit and launching a new website that used story-telling to articulate the vision and mission of a thriving social enterprise providing re-entry employment. The attached resume details my accomplishments in securing philanthropic investment, and my experience as a manager and senior leader are similar to those needed in this role. My former staff will tell you I excel at operations management, building the infrastructure necessary to be successful, managing the flow of information and workload, and ensuring goals are met, while also creating the space to have fun and find joy in our work. Most importantly, I love to get out the door and raise money for an organization I am passionate about. It would be a privilege to work with you at The Legal Aid Society as your Director of Major Giving & Corporate Partnerships. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss the position further. Thank you for your consideration. With gratitude, Jessica Gillota 27 - 18 Hoyt Ave. S. Apt. 5D jessgillota@gmail.com Astoria, NY 11102 646-660-0032
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