Summary
Serving over 10,000 children annually from 7 locations, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) successfully completed a $5 million Comprehensive Campaign to establish STEAM Innovation Centers, upgrade facilities and technology, and build their endowment for long-term sustainability.
Their Vision
The Board and staff of BGCOP dream big! Their vision was to elevate the opportunities for all the children they serve. A Comprehensive Campaign was needed to:
- Help children discover a passion for science, technology, engineering, art & agriculture, and math. New STEAM innovation centers at four clubhouses with engaging activities such as the 3D Printing Program with Cal State University Channel Islands, and an Agriculture Initiative with farm tours and healthy cooking to spotlight this vital industry in Ventura County. The Comprehensive Campaign will fund initial expenses and five years of operations.
- Fund much-needed maintenance and upgrades in facilities owned by BGCOP and other program sites to ensure children in housing projects and in the juvenile justice facility have opportunities to elevate their lives. More than 75% of BGCOP youth and teens are from low-income families with limited access to computers, printers, and broadband—necessary tools for academic success. The Comprehensive Campaign will provide funds to renovate computer labs with state-of-the-art technology.
- For the long-term health of the Clubs, build their endowment and attract planned gifts so the interest can sustain and expand vital programs.
Our Strategy
Based on a planning study, NGA designed a campaign tailored to the needs and resources of BGCOP. Influential leadership was strategically recruited to ensure success, along with implementation of a rigorous timeline of activities and “next steps.” Adding to the ongoing challenges of fundraising was the pandemic, reducing the opportunities for gatherings and face-to-face contact. The needs of the children were exacerbated by the pandemic, which inspired BGCOP leadership and NGA to be creative and to find new ways of continuing the campaign.
Success Together
The $5 million goal was reached in the summer of 2021 thanks to generous donors, committed volunteer and staff leadership, and perseverance. A major milestone of the campaign was securing the largest planned gift in the Clubs’ history—a transformative event. NGA initially estimated that 76 gifts over $10,000 would be required to succeed; the actual number of gifts was 70—a close approximation. In addition to reaching the campaign goal, the BGCOP’s development program was strengthened, and donor relationships were bolstered. A case study in determination!
“Netzel Grigsby was there for our campaign every step of the way. They kept us focused and shared insightful strategies and process along the way! We could not have done it without them!”
- Erin Antrim, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme