Hi Beth,Thanks for your kind words. I know Tony and the others join with me in saying that we're glad to help point out a path.
I like the idea of doing some board training that leads to strategic planning. But, perhaps, some of your problems are perceptual and/or administrative. I think your org needs to do a few preliminary things.
1.) Try to clarify or renegotiate its relationship with the state 4-H. Perhaps your organization can participate in 4-H programs without using the 4-H name on its center; or perhaps the state 4-H can be more lenient in restrictions or more generous in support. I don't know what the real needs are, but my sense is that the relationship between the org and 4-H may be hindering the success of local fundraising.
Prospects may be thinking, "they're getting 4-H money, that's Dept. of Agriculture. They don't need my money." Or something along those lines.
2. The Center should start its own 501(c)(3) organization. Fundraising under the auspices of the state 4-H will be somewhat less than effective.
3. The Center should also create a public relations campaign that tells the immediate world about its redefined relationship with state 4-H, talks about the things the capital campaign will accomplish, and invites participation in planning from all aspects of the community.
Best of luck,
Carl
