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A few weeks ago, I attended a meeting of non-profit leaders struggling through a slump in their capital campaign.

Over the past seven years, it has been our privilege to work alongside an amazing team of volunteers and staff to bring the new Westport Weston Y Bedford Family Center out of the ground. On a perfect late summer evening, nearly 400 people came together to dedicate, celebrate and “cut the ribbon” on a stunning 54,000 sq. ft. Adirondack-style YMCA built in a quiet wooded setting adjacent to the Y’s 32-acre day camp. Taking inspiration from the capital campaign’s theme of “Building What Matters,” each of the evening’s speakers marked this historic event with praise for what had been built…

Last week, we started a discussion about what to do when you find your campaign at the bottom of the dip and stalled. There are four key elements to every campaign – case, leadership, prospects and a plan. Today we’ll consider the importance of prospects and a plan.

Rarely does a week go by without a phone call from someone who is tired, frustrated and defeated. They’re worried their campaign is “stalled.” Before you can adequately diagnose the issue with your campaign, you must first have the courage to hit the pause button. Take the time to determine if you need to stop the campaign or simply relaunch. 

One of the best ways to deepen the connection between a donor and your organization is to let them experience your program in action. Whether that’s a site visit or a chance to talk with program alumni, a great donor visit can do more than any brochure or talking point ever will.