Those Pesky Case Statements-- What Are They All About Anyway? Rita J. Galowich President Fund Inc

Those Pesky Case Statements Purpose and use of a case statement Components of a case

A Case Statement Must: Justify and explain the institution, its programs and its needs. Win the reader with its vision that is supported by strong leadership and responsible management. Present the institution so that it stands out from all others in the eyes of the reader.

A Case Statement Must: Be forward thinking, positive; present clear, concise, vital and accurate facts and statistics. Carefully lay out the fundraising plan. Be a carefully explained plan for the future so as to invite investment. 2. In concrete, specific terms: Who the $ is coming from, at what levels and how it will be used. 3. There needs to be a future plan after the achievement of the immediate campaign. Otherwise, why would a donor consider an investment if everything ends with this project. VISION!!!! FOR THE FUTURE OF THE INSTITUTION

Uses of a Case Statement As an internal document to help resolve and focus planning and policies into a written statement that interprets the institution externally. In a shortened form (prospectus) it can be used to help test the market prior to conducting major fundraising.

Uses of a Case Statement To rally leadership around policy, planning and the sales story. As a key tool in securing campaign leadership as well as quality staff.

Uses of a Case Statement As the major support document when soliciting large annual, capital, and special gifts. As a reference tool for future publications.

Components to Include in the Case Vision and Mission statements Brief history Stress the strengths

Components. . . Objectives of the specific project/campaign. Listing/discussion of the strategies/projects to achieve the objectives and the time table. Budget, facilities, staff, ongoing evaluation, etc., required to carry out the strategies/projects.

Components. . . Who are the constituents that will benefit from the services offered. Compelling reasons why someone should make a contribution. Why the service area requires this change in/type of project or new project.

Support Documents Listings of the board of trustees, committees, advisory boards, and staff Recent audited financial statement. “Eye popping” statistics and/or facts. Misc. program information as appropriate.

Take the “show on the road”!!! Now What? Take the “show on the road”!!!