From the Nominator

"The Annual Fund Campaign solicits the first and most important financial gift we ask of every parent, grandparent, faculty, staff, alumnus parent, alumnus, and friend of The John Cooper School. This is the most beneficial gift that one can make to the School because dollars raised from this Campaign go directly toward the daily operations and continuous improvements to the School. Funds raised provide key elements needed to enable our students to become critical and creative thinkers, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners. We ask donors to invest in the School with their gift to the Campaign, helping to achieve the monetary goal as well as school-wide participation. 

Campaign preparation begins during the summer. The timeline is finalized, theme is determined, and an outside graphic designer designs materials. We use grade-level rep volunteers that help solicit parents throughout the Campaign. Grade-level call lists are prepared weekly so the reps can make calls. 

We run an intense 10-week Campaign. Grade-level reps are provided messaging and reports each week. Giving Society materials are designed and planning meetings are scheduled. Kickoff preparation begins in August with signage placed on campus, an introduction meeting is held with grade-level reps, and Annual Fund materials are mailed to the constituency list. Social media and email blasts begin, as well as video production. Publicity continues weekly regarding Annual Fund dollars at work all year. We steward all of our donors on a timely basis throughout the Campaign and with every gift."

From the Judges

Great involvement from from Board of trustees and great use of video and a multi-channel approach.