We have a past client who is considering a capital campaign. Our team had several conversations with their leaders about a potential campaign readiness assessment and feasibility study. Earlier this month, I received an email from them. They thanked us for helping them consider their position as it relates to a campaign. Their verdict. They are not ready.

That is self-awareness.  

They really want, and actually need, the building project they are considering. It will help them deliver on their strategic priorities and goals for growth. But wanting or even needing something and being ready to take it on can be two completely different things.

In this case, it is.  

The need is clear and compelling, AND, they have a new development leader, a brand-new CRM, and a community of supporters who are not yet cultivated for a major campaign. Instead of charging forward with a feasibility study, they decided to lay some groundwork that will position them for a better outcome.

Over the next several months, their new development leader will take some time to familiarize themselves with the development plan and adjust strategies according to their strengths. They also will begin the conversion to their new database, cleaning the data, learning how to build and run reports, and understanding its capabilities more fully. And, they will begin cultivating the board, the building committee, and key donors—engaging them in the vision for and anticipated impact of the proposed addition.  

All of that is really important work!

When discussing a potential capital campaign, I often tell clients it would be awesome to simply push the PAUSE button and stop everything you are doing so that you can focus on your capital campaign. After more than two decades of capital campaign fundraising, I have yet to see that happen. You must continue EVERYTHING you are already doing AND prepare for, launch, and successfully complete a capital campaign. It is A LOT.  

I am really proud of this client for giving themselves a little space to be better prepared for their everyday fundraising AND this special campaign. And I am proud to be a part of a team that prioritizes the good of the client over the excitement of a new Armstrong McGuire project.

Our late co-founder Tom McGuire often said that the most important thing we have as consultants is our integrity. I know that Tom is smiling down knowing that Armstrong McGuire continues to prioritize integrity above all else.

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Shannon Williams is the Managing Director of Armstrong McGuire and leads the team of Senior Advisors who help our clients with organizational development, leadership development, and fundraising. Watch her recent video on capital campaigns.