Warwickshire Association for the Blind
In 2011, we were asked to carry out a review of WAB’s current and potential fundraising activities, to be followed by a fundraising strategy and support with implementation.
The review looked across the board at the charity’s recent fundraising history, identified what was working well and where the gaps and opportunities lay. The findings were then discussed with the trustees, after which a strategy was developed for fundraising over the next three years.
The strategy identified the key areas of activity that were to be developed, including charitable trusts and legacies, as well as community fundraising and set out how the charity would exploit these areas, along with the resources required.
Following adoption of the strategy, we then supported WAB in defining a new fundraising role at the charity and in the recruitment of a fundraiser.
As a result of the assignment, WAB is now taking a more strategic approach to its fundraising and has an agreed plan about how this will be developed, what it will cost and what the anticipated results will be. By implementing its new strategy and diversifying its funding base, WAB will achieve greater independence from statutory funders and is now in a stronger position to survive the increasing volatility in the funding environment.
Trustee Bill Hannis said: “The charity had no forward plan to raise
the extra funds to meet its increasing financial restrictions and there
was no expertise on the Board. It was decided to seek advice from
experts. We were fortunate to find Wootton George Consulting, who have
provided us with a sensible and achievable strategy for the next three
years. The individual consultants have worked with us at every level,
giving clear and understandable guidance in all aspects of fundraising.
They are readily available by telephone or e-mail to answer queries and
provide solutions.WAB will continue to seek their guidance throughout
the implementation period”.
