Director of Grants and Communication

Breakthrough New York
Breakthrough New York

Full-time

New York, NY, USA

Posted on Sep 10, 2026
ABOUT BREAKTHROUGH NEW YORK
Breakthrough New York empowers motivated students from low-income communities to achieve a college degree and reach their fullest potential. Our tuition-free program supports over 500 students and their families from 7th grade through college. We accept middle school students who are furthest from high-quality educational opportunities yet show promise and potential: 99% of students identify as persons of color and 56% will be the first in their families to graduate college.
As a ten-year program, Breakthrough New York supports students and their families through key transition points in their academic journeys. We provide academic enrichment through summer and after-school opportunities; coach students to gain admissions into selective high schools and colleges, and expose students to diverse interests and careers so they can shape their own trajectories.
In addition to nurturing individual talent, we cultivate a thriving community of like-minded peers and mentors who encourage each other’s ambitions and passions. Personalized mentorship and holistic support are signature elements of our model, with over 200 near-peer seasonal staff and volunteers who work with students at each stage of our continuum.
The Breakthrough model works: 94% of Breakthrough students enroll in college preparatory high schools, and 97% are on track to graduate from college in four-six years. Learn more at Breakthrough New York's website.
ABOUT THE POSITION

Reporting directly to the Chief Development Officer (CDO), the Director of Grants and Communications Manager will join the development team to collaboratively raise an organizational budget of $4.024M annually, and oversee a portfolio of $1.2M - $1.5M current and prospective opportunities. This position is responsible for renewing and identifying new grants from institutional partners. As a skilled written communicator and project manager, they will work closely with the CDO and Executive Director to meet ambitious giving goals by managing and growing existing public, foundation, and corporate foundation funding, identifying and pursuing new funding opportunities, and supporting organization communications. This role is crucial for ensuring the organization's financial sustainability and ability to carry out Breakthrough New York’s mission effectively.