by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Apr 14, 2025 | CFFC News
Position Summary
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the senior leader and public face of the Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC). This individual is responsible for strategic leadership, fundraising and donor engagement, community partnerships, and operational excellence.
The CEO will lead CFFC’s efforts to expand philanthropic assets, with a particular focus on major and planned giving, while strengthening the foundation’s impact throughout Fayette County. Working in partnership with the Board of Directors, staff, donors, and community stakeholders, the CEO will ensure that CFFC fulfills its mission of inspiring charitable giving, supporting nonprofits, and fostering positive community transformation.
Key Responsibilities
This job description outlines a broad range of responsibilities and qualifications that define the role. We encourage interested candidates to apply even if they don’t meet every listed requirement—if you bring relevant experience, enthusiasm, and a commitment to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
1. Fundraising and Donor Engagement
- Lead CFFC’s fundraising strategy, in partnership with staff and the Board of Directors, to grow its charitable assets, focusing on major and planned giving,
- Cultivate relationships with high-net-worth individuals, professional advisors, businesses, and other philanthropists to increase unrestricted and endowed funds
- Develop and implement donor stewardship programs, ensuring fundholders are actively engaged with CFFC’s mission
- Oversee marketing, outreach, and public relations efforts to communicate the value of philanthropy in Fayette County
2. Community Leadership and Partnerships
- Position CFFC as a trusted leader and convener on key community issues
- Strengthen strategic alliances with nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, and civic leaders to foster collaborative impact
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and represent CFFC at public events, speaking engagements, and community meetings to advocate for local philanthropy
- Identify and respond to emerging community needs, working with stakeholders to develop funding solutions
3. Organizational Leadership and Strategic Planning
- Develop and execute CFFC’s long-term strategic vision, in partnership with the Board of Directors
- Oversee financial stewardship and operational effectiveness, ensuring the foundation operates with integrity and sustainability
- Lead and develop a high-performing team, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities
- Ensure compliance with National Standards for US Community Foundations® and best practices in philanthropy
- Monitor key performance indicators to evaluate CFFC’s success in fundraising, community impact, and operational efficiency
4. Financial and Operational Management
- Oversee CFFC’s financial health, including the foundation’s investment portfolio (in partnership with the Finance Director and outside investment management advisors), operating budget, and fund distributions
- Implement policies and procedures to support organizational efficiency, transparency, and donor confidence
- Identify opportunities to enhance operational effectiveness, including technology investments and infrastructure improvements
Qualifications and Experience
Required Qualifications
- Proven leadership experience in fundraising and donor development
- Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage donors, corporate partners, and community leaders
- Experience leading strategic planning and organizational development for a mission-driven organization
- Excellent public speaking and communication skills, with the ability to articulate CFFC’s mission and vision
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated success in major and planned giving, with a track record of growing philanthropic assets
- Deep understanding of community foundations, philanthropy, and nonprofit governance
- Financial acumen, with experience in managing budgets, endowments, and investment strategies
- Experience working in a community foundation or donor-advised fund environment
- Knowledge of Fayette County’s economic, social, and philanthropic landscape
- Familiarity with nonprofit tax laws, grantmaking policies, and donor stewardship best practices
Reporting Structure
- The CEO reports directly to the Board of Directors and collaborates with staff, committees, and external advisors to achieve CFFC’s strategic goals.
Work Schedule and Location
- This is a full-time, in-person position based at the CFFC office, with the expectation that some evening and weekend activities will be required to engage with individuals and organizations across the county and build meaningful relationships.
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience, ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 per year plus benefits
- Benefits: Health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- A cover letter outlining their experience in fundraising, leadership, and community engagement
- A current resume detailing relevant qualifications and achievements
- Three professional references (name, title, relationship, and contact information)
Application Deadline: June 15, 2025 at 5:00 PM ET
Submit Applications to: CEOSearchCFFC@gmail.com
CFFC is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Apr 14, 2025 | CFFC News
After nearly two decades of visionary leadership, the Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC) announces the upcoming retirement of Executive Director Renee M. Couser and the launch of a search for its next Chief Executive Officer.
Renee has been the heart and soul of CFFC, growing the foundation into a trusted leader in regional philanthropy and a steadfast supporter of Fayette County’s nonprofit community. She joined CFFC in 2008 as Grants Coordinator, then served as Director of Donor Relations before being named Executive Director in 2018. Under her leadership, CFFC has grown to manage nearly 200 charitable funds and distributes over $1 million in grants and scholarships annually.
“Renee has led with warmth, integrity, and a tireless dedication to our mission,” said Ron Gabriel, CFFC’s Board Chair. “She is deeply respected and beloved by her colleagues, our donors, and countless community partners. We are so grateful for all she has accomplished.”
Renee’s key accomplishments include upgrading technology for staff and donors, coordinating a strategic plan and succession plan, and launching new initiatives for the foundation. Under her leadership, CFFC’s Mask Initiative donated more than 250,000 disposable masks during the pandemic to local organizations who were serving the community in Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties. She was the driving force in starting Fayette Gives in 2020, an annual county-wide giving day that has raised over $2.5 million for more than 100 charities in its first five years. Renee also was integral in launching the Gala of Giving, with its inaugural event in 2022. Proceeds from the event have funded two $50,000 Catalyst for Change Grants, which are the largest grants ever awarded by the foundation.
As Renee plans to spend more time with family, traveling, and volunteering, she leaves behind a strong foundation for the future. Her retirement comes as CFFC begins implementing a new strategic plan that will guide the organization’s growth and deepen its impact across Fayette County in the years ahead.
To build on this momentum, the foundation is now accepting applications for its next Chief Executive Officer.
“We’re excited to find a visionary leader who will continue the remarkable legacy Renee has built, while advancing our bold goals for the future,” said Angela Braun, Succession Planning Committee Chair.
For more information about CFFC, please visit www.cffayettepa.org. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to CEOSearchCFFC@gmail.com before June 15, 2025.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Apr 8, 2025 | CFFC News

Thank you to everyone who attended the Community Foundation of Fayette County’s (CFFC) fourth annual Gala of Giving on March 29, 2025 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Your overwhelming support and record-breaking attendance are helping to catalyze change in Fayette County by raising money for bigger and bolder funding initiatives.
The event features a cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner with a brief program and open bar, live auction, live music and dancing, and an after-party.

Photo credit: Melinda Dominico Photography
Since the inaugural Gala of Giving in 2022, we have awarded two $50,000 Catalyst for Change Grants from event proceeds to support collaborative, county-wide projects. Stay tuned for a third grant award this summer.
Special thanks to the Presenting Sponsor, Fairchance Construction Company, and all Gala of Giving 2025 sponsors.
Visit CFFC’s Facebook page to see photos. Tag us @cffayettepa and use #galaofgiving to share your pictures from the event!
2024 Catalyst for Change Grant: Car Seats & Training

Photo credit: WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital
CFFC’s $50,000 Catalyst for Change Grant for the Infant and Child Safety Program makes it possible for more than 300 new mothers at the Uniontown Hospital’s Birthing Center to receive a convertible car seat and car seat training. The program is a partnership between WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital and Head Start of Fayette County, addressing the critical transportation needs for prenatal and pediatrician appointments.
Congratulations to this family who recently welcomed a new baby and received a car seat and training from hospital staff.
Read more!
2023 Catalyst for Change Grant: Musical Showcase

Photo credit: Kelly Tunney/KGTunney Photography
More than 150 local students performed in the inaugural “ENCORE!” production on May 5, 2024, funded by CFFC’s first-ever $50,000 Catalyst for Change Grant. This program is the first of its kind in Fayette County, showcasing musicals from local high schools and bringing select students together for a special opening and closing number. Main Street Theatre Company produces ENCORE! and collaborates with State Theatre Center for the Arts for rehearsal and performance space. Students were recognized for music, theatre, and visual arts with the presentation of the Fayette County Cultural Trust‘s Achievement in the Arts awards.
“This event truly unites our school students and communities, all while highlighting the talent we have here in Fayette County and underscoring the vital importance of arts education,” said John Wager, Artistic Director of Main Street Theatre Company.
Read more!
Feeling Inspired?
You can be a catalyst for change! Donate to support bigger and bolder grants for funding projects that will affect change and growth in Fayette County.
So far, the foundation has awarded two $50,000 Catalyst for Change Grant awards, and a third award will be announced this summer. Help strengthen these grant opportunities by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Gala of Giving Fund.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Mar 25, 2025 | CFFC News
We invite you to review the Community Foundation of Fayette County’s
2024 Community Impact Report, which highlights our efforts in building a stronger Fayette County. Flip through to learn about our mission to inspire charitable giving, support nonprofits, and nurture positive community impact.
This Community Impact Report also reflects on the foundation’s growth in its 25th anniversary year and the generosity of many people who have made our charitable impact possible. We are committed to supporting Fayette County, and we welcome you to call us with any questions about how you can get involved: 724-437-8600 x1.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Feb 20, 2025 | CFFC News

The Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC) has joined forces with forty (40) other Pennsylvania community foundations to launch the PA Giving Pledge, a statewide campaign to inspire Pennsylvanians to leave at least 5% of their estates to help future generations.
Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Community Foundation Association (PACFA), the newly announced PA Giving Pledge aims to scale Pennsylvania-focused giving with emphasis on generating sustainable financial resources for worthy causes and nonprofits working to address a range of issues in local communities.
“The PA Giving Pledge is a collective effort of PACFA community foundations across the state to improve the quality of life for our families, friends, and neighbors for generations to come. When someone leaves a percentage of their estate to the community foundation, they are leaving a legacy of charitable giving that will have a positive impact for years to come,” said Renee M. Couser, CFFC Executive Director.
The effort aims to tap into 5% of the estimated $418 billion transfer of wealth projected in Pennsylvania by 2030, according to estimates by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania. “If 5% of that $418 billion was endowed through the pledge, it would generate $21 billion to benefit Pennsylvania communities and causes forever,” said Michael L. Batchelor, PACFA President.

With the launch of the PA Giving Pledge, donors and professional advisors can now access an interactive website PAGivingPledge.org to find their nearest community foundation and to access county-by-county data that highlights the total estimated wealth transfer by 2030. PACFA members will be asking business leaders, professional advisors, and philanthropists in their communities to endorse the program to build further momentum.

“There’s amazing potential with Fayette County’s estimated wealth transfer of $2.22 billion in the next 10 years. If 5% of that was pledged in estate gifts, it would translate to $5.56 million being available each and every year to support Fayette County nonprofits and causes,” said Couser.
Do you pledge to leave at least 5% of your estate to support future Fayette County generations?
Call our office at 724-437-8600 x1 to learn more about including CFFC in your estate plan.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Feb 7, 2025 | CFFC News

Tickets are now available for the Community Foundation of Fayette County’s (CFFC) Gala of Giving ~ Catalyst for Change. This year’s event is set for Saturday, March 29 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort, with Fairchance Construction Company as the Presenting Sponsor. The formal event features a cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner with a brief program and open bar, live auction, live music and dancing, and an after-party.
CFFC hosts the Gala of Giving to raise money for projects that can affect change and growth in Fayette County. Event proceeds have supported two $50,000 Catalyst for Change Grants for collaborative, county-wide projects. The first grant supported Main Street Theatre Company’s inaugural Fayette County high school musical showcase, called ENCORE!, in partnership with the State Theatre Center for the Arts and Fayette County Cultural Trust. The second grant was awarded in fall of 2024 to support the WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital’s Infant and Child Safety Program. The hospital partners with Head Start of Fayette County to address the transportation needs of new mothers and their children. The Catalyst for Change Grant will provide over 300 convertible car seats and car seat training to new mothers at the recently re-opened Birthing Center.
“This is the fourth year for the Gala of Giving, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has joined in support. The event has been a game-changer for our ability to impact the community through grants,” said Renee M. Couser, CFFC Executive Director.
The foundation is currently accepting Letters of Inquiry for a third Catalyst for Change Grant, up to $75,000. The deadline to submit a proposal through CFFC’s online grant system is March 1, 2025.
“We expect about 350 guests this year. Each of them is helping us raise money for these grant awards, so we’re working hard to plan a fabulous evening for them,” said Angela Braun, DC, Gala of Giving Event Chair.
Tickets can be reserved at cffayettepa.ejoinme.org/2025galaofgiving. Please direct questions to Trish Desvarro, Gala of Giving Event Manager, at desvarro@gmail.com or 724-557-0820.