When Early Stages was accepted to the Celebration program in 2008, their main source of individual donor outreach was a year-end mailing and they had never had any sort of targeted fundraising structure. Once enrolled in the Celebration Program, the board and staff immediately took advantage of Youth, I.N.C’s coaching, and ended up doubling their original fundraising revenue goal for their first fundraising event.
Now in their third year with Youth, I.N.C, Early Stages continues to reach new heights. Youth, I.N.C. has recruited five board members for Early Stages, including the organization’s new Vice-President, David Gibbs and its Board Treasurer, Susan Paston. As a whole, the board has taken on more accountability and responsibility for the organization, along with developing a solid board structure with secured leadership for each committee
In 2009, Early Stages received a Youth, I.N.C. Fund of Funds Grant to hire a Development Director, whose grant writing and fundraising responsibilities are allowing Executive Director Jackie Pine to place more focus on developing programs and expanding the organization’s funding streams. Early Stages is actively taking steps to further engage the corporate community by identifying new corporate donors and board prospects. Here is what ED, Jackie Pine, has to say about Youth, I.N.C. after three years of partnership:
Joining the Youth, I.N.C. Celebration program was a turning point for our small organization. Not only does Youth, I.N.C. have a wealth of knowledge and methods to draw on from its years of experience working with nonprofits, but they also take the time to understand the unique strengths and challenges of each organization. Youth, I.N.C. has provided the tools, coaching, and workshops that have inspired our board to successfully work together as a fundraising team. Our ability to carry out our mission has been greatly enhanced as a result of our partnership with Youth, I.N.C.
Early Stages has applied for another year in the Celebration Program and intends to become a successful alumni partner.
