During this time, when the state of nonprofits seems particularly fragile, we want to share the incredible grit, perseverance, and ingenuity that our clients have demonstrated. In the coming weeks we will be sharing their stories of overcoming the obstacles presented by COVID-19. We hope you find these stories not only inspiring but useful as a framework in which you and your organization can build from.
So many of us take “home” for granted; especially now, when it seems as if home is all we have. But what if you’re a former foster care student whose college has shut down and you don’t have a “home” to go to?
The International Student Foundation (ISF) was founded on the principles that youth who have aged out of the foster care system deserve and need: financial assistance to help them pursue a college education, mentorship from trusted adults, and leadership development support to help them in the pursuit of a better future. When COVID-19 led to a mandatory shelter in place, many of these students struggled. Fortunately, ISF was there to help.
ISF launched an emergency COVID-19 response digital media campaign, which was focused on raising money for the student’s immediate needs during the pandemic. Accompanying the digital media campaign was their first-ever virtual event. During this event, Executive Director, Blair Ritchey interviewed ISF students. Over 300 supporters attended this event. After the event, many supporters reached out to ISF and were eager to connect with students directly and support them and their specific needs. Donors stepped up to help with students’ rent, housing needs, and much more!
ISF simultaneously launched a Peer-to-Peer fundraising campaign using individual fundraising pages. They reached nearly 70 supporters with $320 average donations per day! They also participated in the North Texas Giving Day Now campaign.
The combined effect of these efforts led to:
Nearly $13,000 raised in emergency response funds
$48.86 ROI for every dollar spent on advertising
Email click-through rate at 13% - a personal best for this growing organization
ISF is also in the process of converting their Annual Gala into a virtual event. ISF has met the challenge of these uncertain times head-on, and have found many creative ways to work around the obstacles that COVID-19 has presented.
While COVID-19 is still very much a crisis that impacts our friends, family, and community it is reassuring to witness that the services, programs, and organizations that our society relies on are still operating in a productive and effective way. We take immense pride in playing a role in helping these organizations share their stories and raise funds for their missions. We hope you’ve enjoyed these COVID-19 Case Studies; we will continue to share more content through our newsletter, blog, and social media.
