Case Studies
Expanding Opportunities: Strengthening Fundraising Capacity for a Private School
A prestigious local private school with a long history of academic excellence faced a critical juncture. With aging facilities and increasing demand for scholarships, the school needed to launch a capital campaign to fund campus improvements and expand its financial aid program. While the school’s leadership was committed to the initiative, they lacked the internal resources and experience necessary to plan and execute a large-scale campaign. The challenge was to assess the school’s fundraising potential, rally key stakeholders, and create a campaign strategy that balanced ambition with feasibility.
Solution
McDermott Philanthropy partnered with the school to lay the foundation for a successful campaign. We conducted an organizational assessment to evaluate the school’s readiness and identify areas for growth. Our team developed a campaign plan tailored to the school’s unique needs, including a compelling case for support that resonated with alumni, parents, and community members. To ensure smooth execution, we provided leadership counsel to the school’s board and advancement team, facilitated a donor cultivation strategy, and implemented transparent progress tracking to maintain momentum throughout the campaign.
Impact
Transformative Impact for the School Community
This case demonstrates how tailored guidance and a clear strategy can drive exceptional outcomes for educational institutions. By leveraging McDermott Philanthropy’s expertise, the school was able to inspire broad-based support and achieve transformational results. The combination of leadership counsel, strategic planning, and donor engagement empowered the school to address immediate needs while laying the groundwork for sustained fundraising success.
15%
Annual giving participation rose by 15% in the first year, reversing the downward trend.
1.2M
The campaign exceeded its financial goal, generating $1.2 million, a 20% increase from the previous year.
2500
The initiative attracted 2,500 first-time donors, expanding the university’s donor base.
Results
Client Testimonial
“McDermott Philanthropy’s thoughtful counsel turned our vision into a reality. Their support was instrumental in mobilizing our community and securing the resources needed to invest in our future.”
Case Studies
