Their Vision
The Community Environmental Council (CEC) had a vision to accelerate their response to climate change on California’s Central Coast, doubling their efforts to reverse the trajectory of climate change, repair the damage already done, and protect communities from the worst climate impacts.
They created a five-year plan to rapidly scale up innovative, equitable climate solutions. To bring the plan to life, $15 million was needed: $10 million for current initiatives including facility renovation and $5 million in legacy gifts to sustain the organization into the future. They turned to NGA to develop and implement a fundraising strategy.
Our Strategy
NGA quickly assessed CEC’s position and established a multi-faceted campaign plan for immediate implementation. The Board of Directors courageously launched the ambitious campaign with their own personal commitments. The campaign strategy included increasing volunteer engagement at many levels, as well as coaching and training for staff and volunteers.
NGA worked shoulder-to-shoulder with CEC’s staff and volunteers to implement a robust plan of cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Focusing on best practices in fundraising, the Community Environmental Council worked tirelessly towards the goal.
Success Together
CEC secured $16.9 million or 113% of goal. This campaign succeeded during a time of uncertainty that could have greatly impacted its success if not for the vision and commitment of the leadership, the guidance of NGA and the tenacity of the team. Over two years, CEC had to change its program delivery, manage an unanticipated relocation, and conduct an ambitious fundraising campaign–further complicated by the global pandemic. Despite these challenges, they emerged with an enhanced position in the community, deepened engagement of volunteers, stronger relationships with donors and a successful campaign.
“When we launched an ambitious $15 million campaign, we had passion, a strong reputation and a clear sense of purpose, but little internal fundraising infrastructure and a limited donor pool. The Netzel Grigsby team provided a steady hand and clear guidance, and their partnership was essential to the success of our campaign.”
Sigrid Wright, CEO, Community Environmental Council