© 2018 PENNINGTON & COMPANY FUNDRAISING, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 29
Alpha to raise funds, one 1970s alumna said, "It would be imperative to know which
option they are moving forward on." Building a strong case of support based on
the feedback received during the study and the need for a chapter housing project
will encourage participation and support during a capital campaign.
While some alumnae noted steps to take before fundraising begins, they still agree
that the chapter leadership must proceed with a campaign to meet the chapter's
needs. Preparing project plans and illustrations, building a strong volunteer board,
and securing the necessary leadership gifts early is critical for alumnae to feel
confident in the success of a campaign of this nature.
In Pennington & Company's experience, alumnae will only support a capital
campaign if they feel others will also contribute. Alumnae—specifically major
donors—must believe others will support this project and stretch their gift for a
campaign to be successful. The perception that other alumnae will be supportive of
a major fundraising effort encourages individuals to participate and creates the
momentum necessary for a successful capital campaign. In any campaign, it is
important to make peer-to-peer, face-to-face solicitations to increase probability of
the donor making a gift. It is also important that key insiders show their support for
Yes
86%
No
3%
Maybe
11%
Chart F: Should the Alumnae Leadership
Proceed with a Fundraising Campaign?
