School Advancement Plan 

1. Establish Vision and Identify Needs

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A compelling vision is the cornerstone of any successful advancement plan. Here's how to set the foundation:

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• Think Big: To attract substantial gifts, articulate an ambitious and inspiring vision.

• Define Priorities: Clearly outline key areas of focus, such as academic programs, facilities, or technology upgrades.

• Diversify Needs: Address a range of priorities to appeal to various stakeholders.

• Assign Values: Attach specific dollar amounts to identified needs for clarity and transparency.

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2. Recruit a Strong Core Leadership Team

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Strong leadership is critical for executing the plan effectively. Follow these steps to build a capable team:

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• Collaborate with Key Stakeholders: Work with organizations like the Archdiocese or other governing bodies to recruit influential members for your board.

• Leverage Alumni Networks: Identify alumni representatives from each class year to connect with peers for fundraising efforts.

• Engage Local Parishes: Forge relationships with parishes and pastors, requesting opportunities to promote your school during Mass.

• Foster Inquiry Culture: Encourage leaders to identify potential donors and bring prospects forward.

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3. Create a Development Calendar

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A well-organized calendar ensures smooth execution of activities throughout the year:

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• Plan Key Activities: Include timelines for solicitations, events, and alumni/student activities.

• Focus on High-Impact Events: Prioritize fundraisers with a strong return on investment, such as galas or school tours.

• Integrate School Events: Incorporate regular school activities like reunions or open houses into the timeline for donor cultivation.

• Schedule Staff Meetings: Conduct regular meetings to review progress against objectives and adjust strategies as needed.

• Prioritize Personal Outreach: Allocate time for 8–12 personal meetings with key prospects each month.

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4. Identify Key Constituents and Prospects

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Effective fundraising begins with understanding your audience:

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• Start with Existing Connections: Focus on board members, annual donors, and active alumni.

• Segment Prospects: Rank potential donors based on their capacity and inclination to give. Prioritize those most ready to contribute.

• Conduct Ongoing Research: Identify corporate and foundation prospects, sharing insights with board members for further connections.

• Target Foundations Strategically: Focus on 3–5 foundation submissions aligned with school needs (e.g., technology or science labs).

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5. Develop Prospect Strategies

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Tailored strategies can maximize donor engagement:

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• Involve Leadership in Major Gifts: Assign top prospects to the President, Principal, or Advancement Director for personal outreach.

• Host Exclusive Meetings: Invite prospects to breakfasts, tours, or luncheons featuring school leaders and board members.

• Initiate Conversations Programs: Host monthly discussions with school leaders to cultivate relationships and test funding priorities.

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6. Increase Annual Appeal Visibility

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Boost participation in your annual appeal through strategic planning:

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• Start Early: Begin preparations well in advance to refine strategies.

• Host a Kick-Off Event: Engage leadership donors early by encouraging them to set the pace for others.

• Personalize Solicitations: Use tailored letters with specific ask amounts for each family.

• Follow Up Strategically: Reconnect with past donors (LYBUNTs/SYBUNTs) via phone-a-thons or mailings.

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7. Set Goals, Measure Outcomes, and Adjust

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Establishing clear benchmarks ensures accountability:

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• Define Metrics: Track calls made, meetings held, funds raised, and events conducted monthly.

• Evaluate Strategies Annually: Compare year-over-year results to refine approaches based on effectiveness.

• Adopt Innovative Practices: Explore new methods for identifying and securing funding sources.

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8. Maintain Donor Relationships Through Communication

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Sustained engagement is key to long-term donor support:

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• Communicate Regularly: Use personalized letters, newsletters, emails, social media updates, and one-on-one meetings.

• Foster Ownership Among Donors: Share updates on school improvements and upcoming needs to build investment in your mission.

• Promote Planned Giving Opportunities: Highlight specific projects in alumni communications or reunion events.

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By following this structured plan, schools can effectively align their resources, engage stakeholders, and secure the funding necessary for sustained growth. A thoughtful approach ensures not only immediate success but also long-term prosperity.