2007 Honorable Mention: Fund Development Model

Objective

For its 85th anniversary, The Junior League of Dallas launched a new Fund Development Model, a multi-year effort to provide sustainable revenue from diverse sources, including individual and corporate.

Strategy

Under the 3-year model, JLD diversified its approach to fundraising, through direct solicitation of individuals and corporations, three separate fundraising events, various retail efforts including a gift store, cookbooks and sales of stationery and planned giving.

Fundraising efforts were expanded to involve 240 members of the League. Seven in-League committees comprised the fund development team: Ball, Gift Market, Merchandise, Planned Giving, Recognition, Retail and Underwriting. In Year One, funds are raised and carefully invested in an interest-bearing account. In Year Two, the Research and Development Committee reviews Community Funding Project requests and determined how to best allocate the funds. In Year Three, grants are awarded to agencies that have been selected for the Community Program.

Results

Through the 3-year model, JLD has raised approximately $1,000,000 each year. The funds provide valuable resources to JLD's many community projects and underwrite more than 120,000 volunteer hours. This comprehensive effort encompasses a Community Program consisting of 37 agencies and three League-controlled projects, as well as the activities of the Community Outreach Committee, the Community Assistance Fund, and various Provisional Projects. In addition, the funds enable JLD to train more than 450 Provisional members to address the needs of the community and to become dedicated and effective volunteers.

Impact

By measuring member participation, the amount of funds raised and community connections, as well as obtaining feedback from sponsors, the League is able to assess the effectiveness of the Fund Development Model each year and identify and address areas of improvement. The model has allowed JLD to maintain its reputation as a community leader and a highly competent steward of the funds raised.