Advance planning and success in the quiet phase of a new campaign helped the Delta Sigma Phi Foundation progress toward their goals.
Delta Sigma Phi Foundation started a $10 million campaign on July 1, 2017, that will conclude June 30, 2021. Campaign name is Our Brothers. Our Future. The major focus is to build the foundation’s endowment that would support leadership programs, increased unrestricted giving and provide necessary resources for the fraternity’s new learning management system.
The effort started with an internal plan to raise 70% of the goal in cash and cash pledges and 30% in planned giving. The organization also set a target launch date at its 62nd National Convention in early August 2019.
When the Delta Sigma Phi team approached donors in the quiet phase about making a gift, the donors were asked if they would consider a multi-year cash pledge and a planned gift, if their personal situation allowed. Many donors said they wished to make significant planned gifts.
By the campaign launch, campaign counting reached north of $10 million, with 75% of commitments coming in the form of planned gifts. Four of these commitments were seven-figure commitments. The foundation now increased its goal to $15 million by June 30, 2021.
Takeaways
- Several donors wanted to make a big commitment, and a planned gift was the best way for them to do so.
- Careful organization and planning helped board members be prepared and staff to execute the plan.
- A Delta Sigma Phi Foundation board member made an initial large gift early in the process, and this inspired/challenged other board members to think big.
FFE recognized this program with a 2019 Award of Distinction for Best Planned Giving Effort.
