Small Town YMCA Executes “Right” Steps for Campaign Success

Monett, Missouri, is a small community of approximately 8,000 people which makes its YMCA an essential part of the area’s social fabric. So when an ACB Developmental Study© showed that a capital campaign to build a new YMCA was possible, area residents seized the opportunity to expand their Y.

Since launching its campaign in late 2008, The Monett Area YMCA has already received pledges of $2,000,000 and $1,000,000 toward the campaign and an additional $1,000,000 towards endowment upon the building’s completion.  

In addition the Y received an $800,000 anonymous pledge.  This particular gift came from a donor whose largest previous gift was $50,000. The campaign co-chair took to heart the idea of challenging the prospect to look at his/her potential and asked for $1,000,000.

So why has this little town seen such phenomenal success? ACB Senior Consultant Kevin Currlin shares his thoughts:

  • We have the right person making each ask;
  • The YMCA enjoys a successful history;
  • The asks have been in direct relation to the donors’ potential;
  • We have stressed the “upside” of the present economic issues—construction estimates have dropped by 15 percent;
  • The need is greater now than before, and it isn’t going away; and
  • By completing the entire project now (there are two phases in the plan), the YMCA eliminates future cost increases.

It goes without saying that times are tough. But The Monett Area YMCA proves that philanthropy is still alive. ACB encourages its clients and prospective clients to dig deep and find the courage to seize what opportunities are available for philanthropic growth.

Monett Area YMCA