18.1 Day in the Life

A typical day for a major gift officer or grant writer is dynamic and centered on securing funding for their organization.

A major gift officer may begin their day reviewing potential donors, analyzing their interests, and preparing personalized outreach. This might include crafting emails, planning phone calls, or arranging in-person meetings to discuss how a donor’s contribution could make a meaningful impact.

They often spend time in meetings with their team to strategize on campaigns and review current fundraising goals, ensuring efforts align with the organization’s mission. Meanwhile, a grant writer’s day involves researching potential funding sources and drafting proposals. They focus on clearly conveying the organization’s goals and the specific impact funding will have, tailoring each proposal to meet the unique requirements of each grantor.

Both roles also require regular financial tracking, keeping detailed records of progress and ensuring funds are managed effectively. Throughout the day, these professionals engage deeply with strategic planning and relationship-building, vital components for securing long-term support.