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Published July 25, 2024
Alumni are often an untapped resource when it comes to school fundraising. Their continued connection to their alma mater can make them invaluable contributors to your school’s mission and goals. By engaging alumni in meaningful ways, your fundraising committee can enhance its strategies and boost donations. Here are four effective ways to incorporate alumni in school fundraising strategies.
Social Media and Digital Platforms
Social media and online platforms provide a powerful means of staying connected with alumni. Your school can create dedicated alumni groups where former students can share memories, stay updated on school news, and learn about upcoming events. Regularly posting updates, success stories, and fundraising appeals on these platforms can keep alumni engaged and informed. Additionally, you can use email newsletters to highlight specific fundraising goals and how alumni contributions have made a difference, encouraging continued support.
Alumni Events and Networking Opportunities
Organizing events specifically designed for alumni can foster a sense of community and loyalty. Your school can host annual reunions, networking mixers, and homecoming events that bring alumni together and strengthen their ties to the institution. These events provide an excellent opportunity to share the school’s current needs and fundraising goals directly with alumni. By offering exclusive opportunities to hear from school leaders and participate in meaningful discussions, your school can develop a culture of giving among alumni. These events make alumni feel integral to the institution’s ongoing success.
Mentorship and Career Guidance Programs
Alumni who have achieved professional success can be excellent resources for current students. By establishing mentorship and career guidance programs, your school can create mutually beneficial relationships between alumni and students. Alumni can offer valuable advice, internships, and job opportunities, while students gain insights and connections that can help them in their future careers. Highlighting the impact of these programs in fundraising appeals can demonstrate the tangible benefits of alumni involvement, motivating others to contribute their time, expertise, and financial support.
Alumni Giving Program
Creating a structured alumni giving program is essential for sustained fundraising success. Your school can offer various giving levels and recognition opportunities to encourage alumni participation. Annual giving campaigns, class gifts, and crowdfunding initiatives can also be effective in rallying alumni support. Providing clear information on how you will use donations and acknowledging donors’ contributions can foster a culture of philanthropy.
Expand Your Reach With Vertical Raise
These ways to incorporate alumni in school fundraising strategies can yield significant benefits, as well as a robust network of supporters. This not only helps your school meet fundraising goals but also strengthens the overall sense of community and loyalty among alumni.
At Vertical Raise, we can help you reach more alumni in less time. Our digital fundraising platform is ideal for a variety of school events, including baseball team fundraisers and other team-based initiatives. Get in touch today to learn how current and former students can easily donate to their favorite causes.