2013 Honorable Mention: President’s Society

The Junior League of Birmingham won the 2013 Honorable Mention in Fund Development for its annual giving campaign known as President’s Society.

Program Goal

President’s Society is a low-cost, high-return program that offers membership to donors who give $1,000 or more and provides substantial funding to support the League’s mission.

Program Description

The League actively markets the benefits of membership to potential donors through newsletters and its website, spelling out what specific donation increments can buy for the community—$5,000 funds admission for 400 elementary students to the Botanical Gardens to learn about nature and $2,500 provides books to 66 preschoolers and their families, for example. In this high-touch program, patrons are acknowledged with what has become a must-attend event on the philanthropic circuit that takes place at a showcase-worthy house and with handwritten notecards and hand-signed letters from the Honorary Chair.

Evaluation

As of its fifteenth anniversary this year, the President’s Society has raised over $1.4 million which directly funds mission-based initiatives that improve the community. One of the most prestigious programs in Birmingham, President’s Society retains its donor base. Throughout its history, some 10 members have given for 10 years or more; 51 have given for between five and nine years; and 138 have donated for between two and four years. Along the way, the team has proven to be inventive as well, creating a level-giving initiative, reducing first-time requirements, and offering an installment plan.