In November 2016, Imperial created the first ever direct mail appeal for the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative. The pack had the feel of an impact report, thanking donors for their previous support while highlighting the number of people in sub-Saharan Africa who still need treatment. Many of the donors to the SCI lack knowledge of the disease and the college's work, as they give because it is highly rated for cost-effectiveness on sites like Givewell rather than personal affinity. And so they also included information on how treatment works and how the SCI plans to achieve its goals.
From the Judges' Report
This project blurred lines between academic and social cause fundraising-and did it brilliantly. Also allowed gathering of much lacking donor data. It raised money, raised awareness and exceeded expectations. There was strong reporting back on impact as every pound donated treated three children start to finish.
