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What's Working in Digital Non-Profit Fundraising

Here's an exclusive, sneak-peek infographic from M+R and NTEN, which highlights certain findings of the 2012 study. Do you help support non-profits through email, social media or other digital channels? Let us know in the comments.The study is based on primary research with 44 participating non-profits, including the AARP, American Red Cross, Human Rights Watch, Planned Parenthood and the World Wildlife Fund.

Spotlight

Action for Children

From before they are born until they are into their twenties, we help disadvantaged children across the UK. We do it through practical services and programmes that are proven to work. We help children through fostering or adoption. We intervene early to stop neglect and abuse. We make life better for disabled children. We influence policy and advocate for change. Nearly 7,000 staff and volunteers run over 600 services, from family centres to intensive support services, youth work to residential care homes.

OTHER ARTICLES
Nonprofit Management

7 Reasons to Invest in a Volunteer Program

Article | July 20, 2022

Volunteers are the lifeblood of any nonprofit. Your services, fundraising campaigns, and even day-to-day operations of your nonprofit can depend on volunteers. An estimated 30 percent of Americans or 77.9 million people reported they volunteered for an organization or association.” AmeriCorps published survey So, if people want to volunteer, the key to garner willing volunteers is to: Communicate your needs Share your “why” Make it easy While all nonprofits know they need volunteers, investing time and energy into building a program can naturally fall by the wayside. As you look to recruit and retain volunteers, a best practice is to put a strategic volunteer program in place. You may be asking, “What’s the benefit to me, the nonprofit?” Let’s dive into it! First, let’s start with the basics — what are the top reasons to invest in a volunteer program? We’ve got you covered. A dynamic volunteer program: Creates ambassadors for your mission. Volunteers spread the word in your community and increase your community engagement. They can advocate for you with their friends, family, and local and state legislatures. Provide your volunteers with messaging so they can share their “why” on social media and by word of mouth. One pro tip shared by Points of Light is to provide a digital badge to add to your volunteer leaders’ email signatures. Develops new funding sources. The line between a volunteer and donor should be fluid, not separate. A 2014 study by Fidelity Charitable found that 83% of volunteers report supporting the same nonprofits with their donations. Don’t silo your volunteers and your donors! Reduces your operating costs. According to the Independent Sector, the value of a volunteer hour was estimated at $28.54 in 2020. Since payroll is often the largest expense for a nonprofit, volunteers provide essential support to your cause with minimal costs to you. Increases the quantity and quality of your programs and services. It’s a win-win situation for professional development and your lengthy project list! That list will be met by an eager, talented volunteer, and your volunteer will improve their professional skills at the same time. Maximizes your limited staff resources. We’re sure there’s been a few items on your wish list that you’d love to check off if you had more resources, like being open on holidays or offering more services to your community. Volunteers can fill in those gaps! Maybe they are looking for ways to give back over a holiday, or they may have the connections to develop a new service opportunity for you. Increases your diversity and brings in new ideas. Although your nonprofit may always strive to diversify or get out of the “we’ve always done it this way” rut, you may not meet the potential of those goals with your staff. Volunteers can provide unique perspectives, different experiences, and even that spark of excitement that comes with a new idea. Minimizes volunteer turnover.Just like staff onboarding, volunteer onboarding takes time and money. If you recruit and onboard well with easy-to-access opportunity matching, training, and tracking mechanisms in place, your volunteers will be well on their way to a successful experience. Build on that by learning more about your volunteers’ interests and skills, and they will feel seen and appreciated. An upfront investment will pay off in years of dedicated service. Are you convinced? If so, it’s time to take the next step of how to start putting a volunteer program into place. Then you can scale your volunteering as your nonprofit grows! Here are our 5 fundraiser-approved steps to developing a bullet-proof volunteer program. Step 1: Quantify your current volunteer impact. Gather data on number of volunteers, hours and skills contributed. Measure the return on investment (ROI) including your program cost and total estimated volunteer value (# of volunteer hours x est. volunteer wage per hour). You can even take it a step further and consider the monetary savings to the community when volunteers provide the service or in-kind donation versus a private provider (e.g. number of children tutored or trees planted). Step 2: Educate your staff and board on the benefits of volunteering. Share your ROI and other data with your executive team and board and garner to get them on board. Recruiting, onboarding, engaging, and retaining your volunteer base will be much smoother when you have their support. Step 3: Purchase or build a volunteer management software system. Track volunteer hours, record your volunteers’ information, and create reports. Your software/tracking system should include a personalized volunteer dashboard where they can track their hours and volunteer services provided, demonstrating to them their impact in real-time. Step 4: Develop a plan for recruitment, training, and growth opportunities for your volunteers. Share the plan with your current volunteer leaders and solicit their feedback before rolling out to the community. Step 5: Make the case for even more investment in your program next year. Give insight into how your efforts to recruit, engage, and retain volunteers positively impact your mission and your bottom line.

Read More
Fundraising

5 Rules for Adjusting Your Nonprofit Marketing

Article | July 15, 2022

It’s not business as usual, which means that your nonprofit marketing efforts have to adjust and change. Dynamism and adaptability are necessary for every organization in the current environment, especially for nonprofits. We understand that the need in our communities is only going to increase in the weeks and months ahead, which means nonprofits have to nurture relationships — and strengthen them.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

5 Videos That Show Creative Ways to Market Your Nonprofit

Article | July 20, 2022

Video marketing increases brand engagement, reflects your nonprofit brand personality, and informs the public about your impact. The key is to approach your video marketing strategy in a creative way so you can stand out from the crowd. The following five videos are creative examples from which you can draw inspiration, from capturing your audience’s attention to building strong storylines that deliver information in innovative ways. In each example, we’ll dissect some best practices and learnings you can take away in order to level up your own videos.

Read More

Helpful Resources for Nonprofit and Social Enterprises During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Article | April 10, 2020

As the country adapts to the unique circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofits are being faced with new challenges as they continue their important work. Fortunately, there are hundreds of emergency relief funds at the global, national, and local levels, offering individual and organizational funding for basic needs, direct services, and other immediate concerns. Since Voqal cannot offer emergency funds for direct services like other funders and partners, we thought we would share a compilation of resources where organizations can find these dollars. A special thank you goes out to Voqal’s grants and fellowships program manager, Mary Coleman, for putting this list together.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

What Your Non-profit Should Know About Accepting Cryptocurrency Donations?

Article | July 20, 2022

Volunteers are the lifeblood of any nonprofit. Your services, fundraising campaigns, and even day-to-day operations of your nonprofit can depend on volunteers. An estimated 30 percent of Americans or 77.9 million people reported they volunteered for an organization or association.” AmeriCorps published survey So, if people want to volunteer, the key to garner willing volunteers is to: Communicate your needs Share your “why” Make it easy While all nonprofits know they need volunteers, investing time and energy into building a program can naturally fall by the wayside. As you look to recruit and retain volunteers, a best practice is to put a strategic volunteer program in place. You may be asking, “What’s the benefit to me, the nonprofit?” Let’s dive into it! First, let’s start with the basics — what are the top reasons to invest in a volunteer program? We’ve got you covered. A dynamic volunteer program: Creates ambassadors for your mission. Volunteers spread the word in your community and increase your community engagement. They can advocate for you with their friends, family, and local and state legislatures. Provide your volunteers with messaging so they can share their “why” on social media and by word of mouth. One pro tip shared by Points of Light is to provide a digital badge to add to your volunteer leaders’ email signatures. Develops new funding sources. The line between a volunteer and donor should be fluid, not separate. A 2014 study by Fidelity Charitable found that 83% of volunteers report supporting the same nonprofits with their donations. Don’t silo your volunteers and your donors! Reduces your operating costs. According to the Independent Sector, the value of a volunteer hour was estimated at $28.54 in 2020. Since payroll is often the largest expense for a nonprofit, volunteers provide essential support to your cause with minimal costs to you. Increases the quantity and quality of your programs and services. It’s a win-win situation for professional development and your lengthy project list! That list will be met by an eager, talented volunteer, and your volunteer will improve their professional skills at the same time. Maximizes your limited staff resources. We’re sure there’s been a few items on your wish list that you’d love to check off if you had more resources, like being open on holidays or offering more services to your community. Volunteers can fill in those gaps! Maybe they are looking for ways to give back over a holiday, or they may have the connections to develop a new service opportunity for you. Increases your diversity and brings in new ideas. Although your nonprofit may always strive to diversify or get out of the “we’ve always done it this way” rut, you may not meet the potential of those goals with your staff. Volunteers can provide unique perspectives, different experiences, and even that spark of excitement that comes with a new idea. Minimizes volunteer turnover.Just like staff onboarding, volunteer onboarding takes time and money. If you recruit and onboard well with easy-to-access opportunity matching, training, and tracking mechanisms in place, your volunteers will be well on their way to a successful experience. Build on that by learning more about your volunteers’ interests and skills, and they will feel seen and appreciated. An upfront investment will pay off in years of dedicated service. Are you convinced? If so, it’s time to take the next step of how to start putting a volunteer program into place. Then you can scale your volunteering as your nonprofit grows! Here are our 5 fundraiser-approved steps to developing a bullet-proof volunteer program. Step 1: Quantify your current volunteer impact. Gather data on number of volunteers, hours and skills contributed. Measure the return on investment (ROI) including your program cost and total estimated volunteer value (# of volunteer hours x est. volunteer wage per hour). You can even take it a step further and consider the monetary savings to the community when volunteers provide the service or in-kind donation versus a private provider (e.g. number of children tutored or trees planted). Step 2: Educate your staff and board on the benefits of volunteering. Share your ROI and other data with your executive team and board and garner to get them on board. Recruiting, onboarding, engaging, and retaining your volunteer base will be much smoother when you have their support. Step 3: Purchase or build a volunteer management software system. Track volunteer hours, record your volunteers’ information, and create reports. Your software/tracking system should include a personalized volunteer dashboard where they can track their hours and volunteer services provided, demonstrating to them their impact in real-time. Step 4: Develop a plan for recruitment, training, and growth opportunities for your volunteers. Share the plan with your current volunteer leaders and solicit their feedback before rolling out to the community. Step 5: Make the case for even more investment in your program next year. Give insight into how your efforts to recruit, engage, and retain volunteers positively impact your mission and your bottom line.

Read More
Fundraising

The Power of Film for Philanthropy

Article | July 15, 2022

It’s not business as usual, which means that your nonprofit marketing efforts have to adjust and change. Dynamism and adaptability are necessary for every organization in the current environment, especially for nonprofits. We understand that the need in our communities is only going to increase in the weeks and months ahead, which means nonprofits have to nurture relationships — and strengthen them.

Read More
Nonprofit Management

What Does the Health of Your Nonprofit Website Mean and How Can You Improve It?

Article | July 20, 2022

Video marketing increases brand engagement, reflects your nonprofit brand personality, and informs the public about your impact. The key is to approach your video marketing strategy in a creative way so you can stand out from the crowd. The following five videos are creative examples from which you can draw inspiration, from capturing your audience’s attention to building strong storylines that deliver information in innovative ways. In each example, we’ll dissect some best practices and learnings you can take away in order to level up your own videos.

Read More

Helpful Resources for Nonprofit and Social Enterprises During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Article | April 10, 2020

As the country adapts to the unique circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofits are being faced with new challenges as they continue their important work. Fortunately, there are hundreds of emergency relief funds at the global, national, and local levels, offering individual and organizational funding for basic needs, direct services, and other immediate concerns. Since Voqal cannot offer emergency funds for direct services like other funders and partners, we thought we would share a compilation of resources where organizations can find these dollars. A special thank you goes out to Voqal’s grants and fellowships program manager, Mary Coleman, for putting this list together.

Read More
MORE ARTICLES

Spotlight

Action for Children

From before they are born until they are into their twenties, we help disadvantaged children across the UK. We do it through practical services and programmes that are proven to work. We help children through fostering or adoption. We intervene early to stop neglect and abuse. We make life better for disabled children. We influence policy and advocate for change. Nearly 7,000 staff and volunteers run over 600 services, from family centres to intensive support services, youth work to residential care homes.

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Fundraising, Nonprofit Management

American Camp Association Receives $45.5 Million Grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to Strengthen Character Development Programs for Young People

PR Newswire | February 02, 2024

The American Camp Association® (ACA) is honored to announce that Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded ACA a $45,535,623 grant to support the creation of a new, multiyear initiative to grow, improve, and celebrate character development at camps across the United States. Character at Camp is an innovative initiative anchored in the belief that summer and year-round camp programs provide an unparalleled opportunity to promote the character development of young people. While camps vary greatly in their mission, size, activities, programming, and location, many are run with an intrinsic focus on youth development and character-building skills and traits. ACA's recent National Camp Impact Study demonstrated that camp experiences support social connectedness among youth and the development of skills and traits such as perseverance, responsibility, and the willingness to try new things. This study also found that these skills and traits last over time. Individuals who attended camp as children demonstrate these skills and traits throughout academic environments and well into their early careers. For more than a century, character development has been foundational to the camp experience, as each camp distinctively offers a variety of opportunities to develop important character skills and traits. Camps provide young people with experiences in less-distracting settings, often surrounded by nature, that can help support character development through social interactions with peers and counselors, time for reflection and other activities. For example, campers learn responsibility as they help set tables in the dining hall, engage in leadership when guiding groups during hikes, and practice empathy when they support fellow campers who are missing home. In today's world, the benefits of building character skills and traits such as gratitude, kindness, creativity, curiosity, perseverance, resiliency, empathy, courage, and teamwork could not be more important. The Character at Camp initiative will be conducted during the next six years. ACA will make available in-person and virtual training opportunities, educational tools, and other resources to camps to strengthen, expand, or establish character development programs at the more than 15,000 year-round and summer camps across the US. As a direct result of this new initiative, ACA will invite camp leaders to participate in educational and peer-learning opportunities, networking, training, other experiences to learn how to help develop character skills and traits at camp. ACA will work with camp professionals, youth-development experts, and others to create new educational resources, training, and assessment tools to provide camps with opportunities to engage in this important initiative. Starting in 2025, all eligible nonprofit camps will have the opportunity to apply for competitive one-, two-, or three-year grants to support their character development programs. Eligible organizations will be able to apply for funding in amounts ranging from $50,000 to up to $300,000 based on the length of the grant period. Funds may be used for staffing, training, curricula, assessment, communications, and/or outreach and partnership efforts to support camps' specific goals related to character development. The initiative will support a broad range of camps serving young people from varied backgrounds and experiences, including under-resourced and underrepresented youth, as well as provide funding for developing character-based programming that is culturally relevant and values the diverse perspectives of youth and families. "We are deeply grateful for Lilly Endowment's support of ACA and our shared commitment to support camps across the country with the funding, tools, resources, and education to expand and prioritize character development programs," said Tom Rosenberg, ACA president/CEO. "This Character at Camp initiative recognizes the diverse needs of children and youth. We know camp experiences build a world of belonging and growth, and we're excited to engage camps as they work to strengthen their character development programs." "Lilly Endowment's founders firmly believed that developing the character of young people was vital to the future of communities and our country, and they supported many efforts to understand how character is formed," said N. Clay Robbins, Lilly Endowment's chairman and CEO. "For decades, well run camps have had a positive impact on the character development of thousands of campers. We believe, with the commitment, leadership, and expertise of ACA, its Character at Camp initiative can meaningfully enhance and expand character development from a variety of perspectives and in a diverse array of young people throughout the nation."

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Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy

The National Geographic Society Breaks Fundraising Record with $122.8 Million in New Commitments

PR Newswire | January 25, 2024

Today, the National Geographic Society announced its largest fundraising year in its 136-year history with $122.8 million in new commitments for 2023 the Society's third record-breaking year in a row. Contributions came from individuals, corporations and foundations to support the nonprofit's mission work, including the transformation of its Base Camp in Washington, D.C., global community of National Geographic Explorers and portfolio of impactful programs. The Society invests 100 percent of donor contributions into the organization's programmatic priorities to strengthen its mission of illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world. Donors and partners fuel the Society's ability to leverage scientific research, exploration, education and unparalleled storytelling to spark curiosity in hundreds of millions of people to learn about and care for our planet. These philanthropic investments accelerate the Society's sustainable business model and build a culture of philanthropy, key to the organization's five-year strategic plan, NG Next. This achievement underscores our community's belief in our mission and vision for the future," said CEO Jill Tiefenthaler. "The dedication of our donors is instrumental to funding the extraordinary National Geographic Explorers who are driving positive change for our planet and its people. Thank you to all those helping us support our Explorers, transform our Base Camp, and achieve our mission and global impact. Last year, the Society launched its newly formed Principal Donors Society, the highest designation for lifetime giving, which recognizes individuals, corporations and foundations who have championed the nonprofit through cumulative philanthropic support of $1 million or more for pivotal priorities and impact areas. The second annual Principal Donors Society induction ceremony and celebration will take place on February 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. "We are most grateful for the unprecedented generosity of our donors that this year's giving reflects, as it clearly demonstrates the growing global support of the National Geographic Society's mission to illuminate and protect the wonderful of our world," said the Society's Board Chair Jean Case. 2023 fiscal year fundraising highlights include: Secured the largest commitment in the Society's history from long-time partner, Rolex $122.8 million in overall new commitments, a 4% increase from the previous record-breaking fiscal year ($117.9M) 81 new commitments of $100,000 or above, a 16% increase over 2022 16 new commitments at $1 million or above $13.2 million raised through Annual Giving & Membership, a 13% increase over 2022 100% participation by the Board of Trustees 100% participation by the Society's Senior Leadership team Increased membership in the Hubbard Council (annual donors of $50,000 or more) by 30% Launched the Principal Donors Society in January 2023, recognizing donors of lifetime giving of $1M or more to the Society, with 65 donors; adding an additional 11 donors during 2023 "We accomplished this tremendous fundraising year thanks to our loyal, global network of industry and thought leaders who are personally dedicated to the Society's success," said Chief Advancement Officer Kara Ramirez Mullins. "It's encouraging to see real investment in, and momentum for, the Society's key priorities like the Base Camp renovation project. We have a bold vision for the future and the time to invest in the Society is now!"

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Fundraising, Philanthropy

The Colossal Impact: 2023 Allocation of Funds Raised for Charity Through Online Competitions

PR Newswire | January 04, 2024

Colossal Management, a pioneering force in changing the landscape of fundraising through online competitions, announces the allocation of over $23 million in donation funds raised in 2023. Colossal's unique approach to fundraising benefits both charities and competitors, bringing together communities to support important causes. Through various competitions, Colossal has successfully raised substantial amounts, and the funds are now being directed toward impactful initiatives. All donations raised from associated votes cast during a Colossal competition go directly to DTCare, a 501(c)(3) charity, which subsequently grants the donations to a designated nonprofit at the end of the competition. The following are standout examples of the impact a Colossal competition can make. Favorite Chef Benefiting James Beard Foundation (JBF) Guest Appearance: Carla Hall 2023 grant amount: over $4.7 million The grant enables JBF to: Dedicate extra resources to advocacy around the Farm Bill, a major piece of federal legislation. Add another WEL (Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership) cohort to their planned programming. Produce a new series of toolkits for the virtual resource library to support culinary entrepreneurs. Expand JBF Leadership Workshops across the country. Develop a series of Advocacy Meetups and mini-training refreshers to bring chefs and other culinary workers together to collaborate on key advocacy issues (sustainability, farming practices, SNAP access, healthier school lunches, etc.). Invest in a new Sustainability Certificate program that would incentivize independent restaurants to build more robust, sustainable infrastructures. Help support chefs in residence at Platform by JBF, the new culinary performance and dining space at Pier 57 in New York City. "We are absolutely delighted to see how Colossal competitions bring so many people together around food, and we are deeply grateful that this initiative will benefit the Foundation's efforts to champion a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability." –Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation Super Mom Benefiting Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) 2023 donation amount: over $2.6 million The Super Mom campaign was the largest first-year donation they've received to date, according to Frances Fu, Chief Financial and Strategy Officer of CMNH. For every $1 raised through underwriting, CMNH turns it into $8 in donations for children's hospitals to, in turn, use where they're needed most. The grant enables CMNH to: Help provide charitable care. Support research & treatments. Provide education. Provide advancement services. Contribute to patient services. Improve life-saving equipment. "The Colossal team is amazing at building online communities through their competitions that have made an unprecedented impact for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals! Their expertise and passion for fundraising and our mission are second to none." –Todd Fisher, Sr. Director of Business Development Fab Over 40 Benefiting National Breast Cancer Foundation Guest Appearance: Dolores Catania 2022 donation amount: over $8.2 million The associated grant, generously presented to NBCF by Colossal's dedicated partner, DTCare, enabled the foundation to channel resources into critical programs and services, encompassing education, detection, navigation, and inspiration for individuals battling breast cancer and their loved ones. The grant enabled NBCF to: Navigate support for 51,047 patients. Provide breast health education for 16,137 women. Give 9,771 mammograms. Make and distribute 6,745 HOPE Kits. Provide outreach to 1,721 women through community programs. "Colossal has helped us provide education, early detection, and support services to thousands of women affected by breast cancer over the last two years through the Fab Over 40 Competition. We are truly grateful for their generosity." –Candice Hensley, Sr. Manager of Strategic Partnerships, NBCF Tony Hawk's Skatepark Hero Benefiting The Skatepark Project Guest appearance: Tony Hawk 2023 donation amount: $768,498.50 The grant enables The Skatepark Project to: Help build new skateparks while also funding the nearly 700 public skateparks in underserved communities across all 50 states. Increase access to outdoor recreation and free play through the creation of safe and inclusive community skateparks. Support 'Supply the Ride,' a program dedicated to breaking down barriers and promoting accessibility by providing skateboards, helmets, and pads to youth in under-resourced communities. Support the 'Fellowship' program, which works to guide the next generation of BIPOC skate advocates on how to create public skateparks in their own communities. "The Skatepark Hero Competition is a celebration of the spirit and talent that drive skateboarding and will shape the future of this incredible sport!" –Tony Hawk America's Favorite Pet Benefiting Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) 2023 grant amount: over $3.2 million Colossal raised an impressive $3.2 million through the 2023 America's Favorite Pet (AFP) Competition and was presented the prestigious inaugural Colossal Kindness Award at PAWS' 56th annual Wild Night gala. The grant enables PAWS to: Extend reach to areas affected by natural disasters. 160 animals from California saved during extreme flooding. 130 animals saved from New Orleans. Many animals rescued after the Maui fires. Complete Snohomish Wildlife Center built on a secluded 25-acre site to rehabilitate wildlife. Enhance PAWS' professional training programs. Broaden its community outreach initiatives. Create new educational programs tailored to underserved youth to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of animal welfare. Offer low-cost spay and neuter surgeries to address the critical issue of pet overpopulation. "This generous contribution has catalyzed PAWS' efforts to provide comprehensive care for thousands of cats and dogs. Many of these animals have been rescued from overcrowded shelters where euthanasia was imminent. Because of this generous grant, PAWS can provide safe shelter to animals like Odette, a senior dog with medical needs. Thanks to Colossal and DTCare, Odette was recently adopted into a loving home where her new family appreciates her calm nature and graying muzzle." –Heidi Wills Yamada, PAWS CEO In 2024, Colossal continues to offer extraordinary experiences for competitors in a variety of fundraising campaigns, all in the name of charity. Past winners include the first-ever Super Mom, London Reber; the Skatepark Hero, Michael Manion; and the 2023 Favorite Chef, Karen Jenkins. Who's Next?

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Fundraising, Nonprofit Management

American Camp Association Receives $45.5 Million Grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to Strengthen Character Development Programs for Young People

PR Newswire | February 02, 2024

The American Camp Association® (ACA) is honored to announce that Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded ACA a $45,535,623 grant to support the creation of a new, multiyear initiative to grow, improve, and celebrate character development at camps across the United States. Character at Camp is an innovative initiative anchored in the belief that summer and year-round camp programs provide an unparalleled opportunity to promote the character development of young people. While camps vary greatly in their mission, size, activities, programming, and location, many are run with an intrinsic focus on youth development and character-building skills and traits. ACA's recent National Camp Impact Study demonstrated that camp experiences support social connectedness among youth and the development of skills and traits such as perseverance, responsibility, and the willingness to try new things. This study also found that these skills and traits last over time. Individuals who attended camp as children demonstrate these skills and traits throughout academic environments and well into their early careers. For more than a century, character development has been foundational to the camp experience, as each camp distinctively offers a variety of opportunities to develop important character skills and traits. Camps provide young people with experiences in less-distracting settings, often surrounded by nature, that can help support character development through social interactions with peers and counselors, time for reflection and other activities. For example, campers learn responsibility as they help set tables in the dining hall, engage in leadership when guiding groups during hikes, and practice empathy when they support fellow campers who are missing home. In today's world, the benefits of building character skills and traits such as gratitude, kindness, creativity, curiosity, perseverance, resiliency, empathy, courage, and teamwork could not be more important. The Character at Camp initiative will be conducted during the next six years. ACA will make available in-person and virtual training opportunities, educational tools, and other resources to camps to strengthen, expand, or establish character development programs at the more than 15,000 year-round and summer camps across the US. As a direct result of this new initiative, ACA will invite camp leaders to participate in educational and peer-learning opportunities, networking, training, other experiences to learn how to help develop character skills and traits at camp. ACA will work with camp professionals, youth-development experts, and others to create new educational resources, training, and assessment tools to provide camps with opportunities to engage in this important initiative. Starting in 2025, all eligible nonprofit camps will have the opportunity to apply for competitive one-, two-, or three-year grants to support their character development programs. Eligible organizations will be able to apply for funding in amounts ranging from $50,000 to up to $300,000 based on the length of the grant period. Funds may be used for staffing, training, curricula, assessment, communications, and/or outreach and partnership efforts to support camps' specific goals related to character development. The initiative will support a broad range of camps serving young people from varied backgrounds and experiences, including under-resourced and underrepresented youth, as well as provide funding for developing character-based programming that is culturally relevant and values the diverse perspectives of youth and families. "We are deeply grateful for Lilly Endowment's support of ACA and our shared commitment to support camps across the country with the funding, tools, resources, and education to expand and prioritize character development programs," said Tom Rosenberg, ACA president/CEO. "This Character at Camp initiative recognizes the diverse needs of children and youth. We know camp experiences build a world of belonging and growth, and we're excited to engage camps as they work to strengthen their character development programs." "Lilly Endowment's founders firmly believed that developing the character of young people was vital to the future of communities and our country, and they supported many efforts to understand how character is formed," said N. Clay Robbins, Lilly Endowment's chairman and CEO. "For decades, well run camps have had a positive impact on the character development of thousands of campers. We believe, with the commitment, leadership, and expertise of ACA, its Character at Camp initiative can meaningfully enhance and expand character development from a variety of perspectives and in a diverse array of young people throughout the nation."

Read More

Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy

The National Geographic Society Breaks Fundraising Record with $122.8 Million in New Commitments

PR Newswire | January 25, 2024

Today, the National Geographic Society announced its largest fundraising year in its 136-year history with $122.8 million in new commitments for 2023 the Society's third record-breaking year in a row. Contributions came from individuals, corporations and foundations to support the nonprofit's mission work, including the transformation of its Base Camp in Washington, D.C., global community of National Geographic Explorers and portfolio of impactful programs. The Society invests 100 percent of donor contributions into the organization's programmatic priorities to strengthen its mission of illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world. Donors and partners fuel the Society's ability to leverage scientific research, exploration, education and unparalleled storytelling to spark curiosity in hundreds of millions of people to learn about and care for our planet. These philanthropic investments accelerate the Society's sustainable business model and build a culture of philanthropy, key to the organization's five-year strategic plan, NG Next. This achievement underscores our community's belief in our mission and vision for the future," said CEO Jill Tiefenthaler. "The dedication of our donors is instrumental to funding the extraordinary National Geographic Explorers who are driving positive change for our planet and its people. Thank you to all those helping us support our Explorers, transform our Base Camp, and achieve our mission and global impact. Last year, the Society launched its newly formed Principal Donors Society, the highest designation for lifetime giving, which recognizes individuals, corporations and foundations who have championed the nonprofit through cumulative philanthropic support of $1 million or more for pivotal priorities and impact areas. The second annual Principal Donors Society induction ceremony and celebration will take place on February 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. "We are most grateful for the unprecedented generosity of our donors that this year's giving reflects, as it clearly demonstrates the growing global support of the National Geographic Society's mission to illuminate and protect the wonderful of our world," said the Society's Board Chair Jean Case. 2023 fiscal year fundraising highlights include: Secured the largest commitment in the Society's history from long-time partner, Rolex $122.8 million in overall new commitments, a 4% increase from the previous record-breaking fiscal year ($117.9M) 81 new commitments of $100,000 or above, a 16% increase over 2022 16 new commitments at $1 million or above $13.2 million raised through Annual Giving & Membership, a 13% increase over 2022 100% participation by the Board of Trustees 100% participation by the Society's Senior Leadership team Increased membership in the Hubbard Council (annual donors of $50,000 or more) by 30% Launched the Principal Donors Society in January 2023, recognizing donors of lifetime giving of $1M or more to the Society, with 65 donors; adding an additional 11 donors during 2023 "We accomplished this tremendous fundraising year thanks to our loyal, global network of industry and thought leaders who are personally dedicated to the Society's success," said Chief Advancement Officer Kara Ramirez Mullins. "It's encouraging to see real investment in, and momentum for, the Society's key priorities like the Base Camp renovation project. We have a bold vision for the future and the time to invest in the Society is now!"

Read More

Fundraising, Philanthropy

The Colossal Impact: 2023 Allocation of Funds Raised for Charity Through Online Competitions

PR Newswire | January 04, 2024

Colossal Management, a pioneering force in changing the landscape of fundraising through online competitions, announces the allocation of over $23 million in donation funds raised in 2023. Colossal's unique approach to fundraising benefits both charities and competitors, bringing together communities to support important causes. Through various competitions, Colossal has successfully raised substantial amounts, and the funds are now being directed toward impactful initiatives. All donations raised from associated votes cast during a Colossal competition go directly to DTCare, a 501(c)(3) charity, which subsequently grants the donations to a designated nonprofit at the end of the competition. The following are standout examples of the impact a Colossal competition can make. Favorite Chef Benefiting James Beard Foundation (JBF) Guest Appearance: Carla Hall 2023 grant amount: over $4.7 million The grant enables JBF to: Dedicate extra resources to advocacy around the Farm Bill, a major piece of federal legislation. Add another WEL (Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership) cohort to their planned programming. Produce a new series of toolkits for the virtual resource library to support culinary entrepreneurs. Expand JBF Leadership Workshops across the country. Develop a series of Advocacy Meetups and mini-training refreshers to bring chefs and other culinary workers together to collaborate on key advocacy issues (sustainability, farming practices, SNAP access, healthier school lunches, etc.). Invest in a new Sustainability Certificate program that would incentivize independent restaurants to build more robust, sustainable infrastructures. Help support chefs in residence at Platform by JBF, the new culinary performance and dining space at Pier 57 in New York City. "We are absolutely delighted to see how Colossal competitions bring so many people together around food, and we are deeply grateful that this initiative will benefit the Foundation's efforts to champion a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability." –Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation Super Mom Benefiting Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) 2023 donation amount: over $2.6 million The Super Mom campaign was the largest first-year donation they've received to date, according to Frances Fu, Chief Financial and Strategy Officer of CMNH. For every $1 raised through underwriting, CMNH turns it into $8 in donations for children's hospitals to, in turn, use where they're needed most. The grant enables CMNH to: Help provide charitable care. Support research & treatments. Provide education. Provide advancement services. Contribute to patient services. Improve life-saving equipment. "The Colossal team is amazing at building online communities through their competitions that have made an unprecedented impact for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals! Their expertise and passion for fundraising and our mission are second to none." –Todd Fisher, Sr. Director of Business Development Fab Over 40 Benefiting National Breast Cancer Foundation Guest Appearance: Dolores Catania 2022 donation amount: over $8.2 million The associated grant, generously presented to NBCF by Colossal's dedicated partner, DTCare, enabled the foundation to channel resources into critical programs and services, encompassing education, detection, navigation, and inspiration for individuals battling breast cancer and their loved ones. The grant enabled NBCF to: Navigate support for 51,047 patients. Provide breast health education for 16,137 women. Give 9,771 mammograms. Make and distribute 6,745 HOPE Kits. Provide outreach to 1,721 women through community programs. "Colossal has helped us provide education, early detection, and support services to thousands of women affected by breast cancer over the last two years through the Fab Over 40 Competition. We are truly grateful for their generosity." –Candice Hensley, Sr. Manager of Strategic Partnerships, NBCF Tony Hawk's Skatepark Hero Benefiting The Skatepark Project Guest appearance: Tony Hawk 2023 donation amount: $768,498.50 The grant enables The Skatepark Project to: Help build new skateparks while also funding the nearly 700 public skateparks in underserved communities across all 50 states. Increase access to outdoor recreation and free play through the creation of safe and inclusive community skateparks. Support 'Supply the Ride,' a program dedicated to breaking down barriers and promoting accessibility by providing skateboards, helmets, and pads to youth in under-resourced communities. Support the 'Fellowship' program, which works to guide the next generation of BIPOC skate advocates on how to create public skateparks in their own communities. "The Skatepark Hero Competition is a celebration of the spirit and talent that drive skateboarding and will shape the future of this incredible sport!" –Tony Hawk America's Favorite Pet Benefiting Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) 2023 grant amount: over $3.2 million Colossal raised an impressive $3.2 million through the 2023 America's Favorite Pet (AFP) Competition and was presented the prestigious inaugural Colossal Kindness Award at PAWS' 56th annual Wild Night gala. The grant enables PAWS to: Extend reach to areas affected by natural disasters. 160 animals from California saved during extreme flooding. 130 animals saved from New Orleans. Many animals rescued after the Maui fires. Complete Snohomish Wildlife Center built on a secluded 25-acre site to rehabilitate wildlife. Enhance PAWS' professional training programs. Broaden its community outreach initiatives. Create new educational programs tailored to underserved youth to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of animal welfare. Offer low-cost spay and neuter surgeries to address the critical issue of pet overpopulation. "This generous contribution has catalyzed PAWS' efforts to provide comprehensive care for thousands of cats and dogs. Many of these animals have been rescued from overcrowded shelters where euthanasia was imminent. Because of this generous grant, PAWS can provide safe shelter to animals like Odette, a senior dog with medical needs. Thanks to Colossal and DTCare, Odette was recently adopted into a loving home where her new family appreciates her calm nature and graying muzzle." –Heidi Wills Yamada, PAWS CEO In 2024, Colossal continues to offer extraordinary experiences for competitors in a variety of fundraising campaigns, all in the name of charity. Past winners include the first-ever Super Mom, London Reber; the Skatepark Hero, Michael Manion; and the 2023 Favorite Chef, Karen Jenkins. Who's Next?

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