Case Study: How We Helped an Independent School Exceed their Annual Giving Campaign Goal by 18%
Client: Riverstone International School
Campaign Goal: $225,000
Campaign Theme: "This is Only the Beginning"
Alexis did a great job transforming the school’s largest annual campaign from a plug-and-play approach into an integrative and inclusive event. She infused a healthy dose of positive energy and brought fresh ideas and consistent, inspiring messaging throughout the campaign. The end result was a fun experience that exceeded all our campaign benchmarks.
I would not hesitate to recommend Alexis for your next campaign.
— Rachel Pusch, Director of Enrollment, Riverstone International School
Campaign Overview: Riverstone International School, a 501(c)(3) educational institution, heavily relies on philanthropic support to cover operating expenses, including staff salaries, tuition assistance, and outdoor programs. The school's major development campaign, the Annual Fund, aimed to raise $225,000 to support these crucial initiatives. Alexis Bennett, acting in a development leadership role, orchestrated a series of events and communications activities over the four-week campaign.
Campaign Strategy: The campaign's theme, "This is Only the Beginning," was carefully chosen to commemorate the school's remarkable 25-year history. It instilled a sense of pride and belonging in the school community. The campaign's success was not only dependent on financial contributions but also on fostering a stronger sense of connectedness among staff, students, and parents.
To engage the community, the campaign included various events that were designed to be enjoyable, interactive, and inspiring. Student speakers attended events to share their impact stories and connect with parent-donors. Some of the key events included:
Teacher-led paint-and-sip night: A creative and relaxing evening where a professional artist and member of the Riverstone staff hosted an event for parents to come together to receive the “Riverstone experience” and socialize.
Cocktail parties: Networking events that provided opportunities for parents, donors, and school staff to interact in a social setting.
Exercise classes: Fitness-oriented activities that promoted a healthy lifestyle and tied to the school’s outdoor-learning pillar.
Teacher-led virtual cooking class: An interactive cooking session led by a professionally trained chef and Riverstone teacher to offer a unique experience for parents and students.
25th Anniversary Birthday Party: The grand finale event that celebrated the school's milestone and showcased Riverstone students’ talent through music and dance.
“Great message - inspirational, challenging, and positive. We are making excellent progress due to your leadership and efforts on this.”
Campaign Outcome: The Annual Fund campaign's impact was significant and went beyond the fundraising goal. The sense of connectedness among staff, students, and parents increased, fostering a stronger school community. The campaign received a substantial boost from a large foundation gift from a past donor and Riverstone alumni family that was moved to give by a personal letter written by Alexis.
An impressive 84% giving participation rate was achieved among the Board of Trustees, staff members, and families.
The campaign surpassed expectations by raising over $265,927, exceeding the initial goal by more than $40,000.
The success of Riverstone International School's Annual Fund campaign demonstrated the power of collaboration, compelling storytelling, and community engagement. The creative approach to organizing various events, coupled with effective campaign leadership, resulted in not only surpassing the fundraising target but also strengthening the school's bonds. The campaign's success exemplifies how the right communications strategy, coupled with a deep sense of purpose, can drive positive outcomes for educational institutions like Riverstone International School.