The Challenge
The National Sporting Library was founded in 1954 with the donation of two private equestrian and field sport book collections. Today it owns over 17,000 books and works of art, housed in an elegant facility tucked among the rolling hills of Virginia horse country, and enjoys generous support from loyal board members.
Several years ago the Library began planning and raising capital funds for a new museum to house its fine art collection. With groundbreaking for the new facility behind them, they sought to expand ongoing annual support to sustain the new museum and programs. They asked for a plan to expand their annual fund program.
The Approach
Carter Consulting Group interviewed members of the Board of Directors, staff and partner organizations to assess the capacity for increased emphasis on the fundraising priorities. After extensive discussions and analysis, we delivered a comprehensive plan that outlined the fundamental building blocks for an annual fund, followed by a customized road map for implementation. The road map was included recommendations for staffing and appropriate Director of Development responsibilities, selected prospects and program recommendations, a five year timeline for implementation, and a small library of resources.
The Result
The new museum held its grand opening in October of 2011. A series of handsome exhibitions and new public programs is underway, and two Development staff positions have been filled. New supporters were attracted to the new activities and programs and the organization is gradually expanding its support and following the plan for growth laid out in our report.
