News

Raising Money During a Recession?

Raising money can be a daunting prosect even during the best of times.  Launching a capital campaign during a period when the news is full of unemployment, bailouts, and declining tax revenues can make the job even tougher.

But in many communities the need for new or expanded shelters is greater than ever.  Lack of funding has forced reductions in government services including animal control and sheltering.  If the public sector cannot respond, the pressure on non-profits to take up the slack is even greater. 

A successful campaign depends more on developing a compelling case statement, a clear, sustainable financial plan, donor development, and who is doing the asking, than the current economy.  Although there has been a noticeable downturn in funding from stock dependent corporations and foundations, fundraisers are seeing only a modest reduction in individual giving, with some organizations reporting an uptick in annual giving.

Although it might take a year or two longer to raise the larger sums involved in capital campaigns, the real question is can you, your community and the animals you care for, afford to wait?