Your start-up organization’s mission is to educate new mothers about the importance of vaccinating their children within the state of New York. As executive director, you have been hired by the board of directors because you have successfully run small, nonprofit organizations in the past and you have a reputation as a savvy fundraiser.
As executive director, you understand that your $500,000 start-up funding from the state ($250,000) and the Smith Family Foundation ($250,000) will cover your organization’s operating expenses for the first year. The organization employs the following people: you, 1.5 FTE program managers, and a part-time office administrator. Of your initial funding, 75% is for programming. The remaining 25% must pay for staff salaries, marketing, fundraising, and overhead.
The program managers have put together project plans to support the strategic plan that launched and funded the organization initially. The board has approved both the strategic plan and the program plans. However, within these plans, additional revenue of $200,000 has been identified as needed, but no sources or plans have been presented. This shortfall includes $100,000 in both program support and overhead costs. Your board members have said that they are pleased to help with fundraising; however, no one has yet taken action.
Discussion Questions
Assume you are the Executive Director.
1. Create an annual fundraising plan with a timetable, including actions and activities, as well as a staffing plan.
2. Create a revenue and expense budget for the unmet $200,000. Include a variety of funding sources, understanding that it will take more than one potential donor to meet each revenue requirement because not everyone says yes. Determine how you will pay for fundraising or if you, as executive director, will take on that significant responsibility.
3. Explain how you will motivate and utilize your board for fundraising.
4. Determine what other supporting materials you need to make the best fundraising case to potential donors.