When it comes to fund development, people often say, “It isn’t rocket science.” Well, maybe. But that certainly doesn’t mean it’s hit or miss, either. For every strategy—from direct mail to events—there are best practices and great value in learning from colleagues. This track will offer both, geared toward long-time professionals as well as people in the field for a few years. We’ll have experts in the basics of crowd funding, stewarding and cultivating major donors, events from A-Z—and more. You’ll have ample time for trading ideas and networking. For some sessions, you’ll be asked to share letters, invitations, gift acknowledgements and other samples used in successful campaigns, events, and direct mail. Our goal? That you’ll return to your JCC, YM-YWHA, or camp with plans you can implement on Thursday morning, and new sources of information from around North America.
Financial Resource Development Job Track Leader: Arlene Swartz, Senior Vice President, Financial Resource Development
Directs the agency’s fundraising initiatives to support the annual fund and signature programs. Develops strategic plans to build and diversify JCC Association’s private revenues to maintain and strengthen programs. Provides support for the Board Financial Resource Development Committee to maximize opportunities to reach new donors and increase levels of current support.
Financial Resource Development Job Track Sessions
Developing a Case for Support
Sunday, 1:45 – 3:45 pm
Arlene Swartz, Senior Vice President, FRD, JCC Association
Lisa Zbar, Director, Individual Giving, JCC Association
Explore why a compelling case for philanthropic support for our Js and the JCC Movement is a primary fundraising tool. Participants will bring their written case and elevator pitch to share.
Where are the Donors?
Monday, 2:15 – 3:45 pm
Addie Goodman, Vice President, JCC Chicago
Whether members, ticket buyers, or preschool parents—all are donor prospects. Learn how to help members and participants understand their additional role as donors, supporting your J for years to come.
Let’s Get Real: Create Your Plan for this Year – part 1 of 2
Monday, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Arlene Swartz, Senior Vice President, FRD, JCC Association
Lisa Zbar, Director, Individual Giving, JCC Association
Create or refine your cultivation and stewardship plan. We’ll consider: Key elements. Effective stewardship. Retaining donors. A good mix of strategies for reaching out and staying connected.
Let’s Get Real: Create this Year’s Plan for Cultivation & Stewardship – part 2 of 2
Tuesday, 3:15 – 5:00 pm
Arlene Swartz, Senior Vice President, FRD, JCC Association
Lisa Zbar, Director, Individual Giving, JCC Association
Working in small groups, refine plan elements, including: three cultivation strategies, a timeline, and your dream team. We’ll share our best ideas. And presto! A plan to take back to your J.
You Can Do This: Crowdfunding 101 and Beyond
Wednesday, 10:15 – 12:00 pm
Chris Strom, Digital Director, JCC Association
Lisa Zbar, Director, Individual Giving, JCC Association
Our crowdfunding exceeded financial goals, attracting 100-plus new donors. From our experience, we’ll address: choosing a platform, creating a compelling project, planning a timeline, from silent phase to launch. In small groups, you’ll create crowdfunding plans and get feedback.