The Challenge

Society for Science & the Public (Washington, DC) is a champion for science, dedicated to expanding scientific literacy, effective STEM education, and scientific research. A well-established organization approaching its centennial in 2021, the Society wanted to expand into new program areas and build a stronger base of philanthropic support.

The organization’s Board and new President and CEO decided to invest in development and launch a campaign to coincide with its 100th-year anniversary. They partnered with Campbell & Company to prepare for this significant effort.

The Process

Our work with the Society started with a campaign planning study in 2016. The study confirmed the organization’s strong reputation and philanthropic potential, but it uncovered a lack of brand visibility as well as uncertainty about the unifying vision for the organization’s various programs.

Coming out of the study, we launched into a campaign preparation phase. Our team worked with the Society to conduct an organizational visioning initiative, mapping out a clear and compelling statement of vision as well as a messaging platform that informed organizational communications and laid the groundwork for the forthcoming campaign.

At the same time, we worked with the Society’s Advancement team to build out its fundraising systems and donor engagement opportunities. This included conducting a capacity analysis to prioritize the organization’s prospect list and developing prospect portfolios for all frontline fundraising staff.

We provided counsel on implementing a qualification system, setting up its database to track and report on donor relationships, and leveraging peer-to-peer fundraising approaches. Our consultants also advised the Society on engaging volunteers in fundraising activity and helped organize its major giving activities.