United Way Development Assistant interview questions

Interviewed with several friendly people who would be involved in the day-to-day work of this position. Questions were reasonable. After, I received an email asking if they could consider me for a more senior position and was told I would still be considered for the role I had applied for (and that I felt was more in alignment with me skills). I said yes, interviewed for that position and did not do well -- because I wasn't qualified! -- and never heard back about the first position. I honestly feel like this isn't great hiring practices on their part?!?