The Challenge

To comply with social distancing measures amid the COVID-19 pandemic, CESC moved all of their people from the emergency congregate shelter into their hotel rooms. This change raised expenses by $225K per month. With most of their annual donations coming in November and December, CESC needed a 50% increase in revenue from individual donors that month to cover their costs.

The Solution

Using the GivingDNA platform, Pursuant and CESC were able to identify opportunities in their file to increase their end-of-year fundraising revenue.

By uncovering their constituents’ philanthropic affinities, wealth, and personal demographics, CESC was able to identify discrete populations for targeted communications. By aligning the message with the insights uncovered, the anticipation was more individuals would respond and do so at a greater level.

The Results

GivingDNA helped CESC identify the following segments for a targeted year-end giving appeal: 

• Monthly donor candidates
• Medical professionals 
• Major gift prospects
• High-value donors who support other social services 
• Philanthropic non-donors

CESC used these segments to build communications specialized to each unique set of interests and motivations. The collective response rate from these segments was 12%, with an average gift of $197. By the time year-end fundraising had wrapped up, CESC had raised $124,000 in November and December alone. By growing 84% revenue YOY, CESC exceeded its goal of bringing in 50% more revenue YOY.