The Snapshot
The YMCA of Metro Denver was in critical need of fundraising leadership during a period of executive transition. Over the course of what ultimately became an 18-month engagement, RevUp’s Cheryl Precious was retained by three separate CEOs as Interim Chief Development Officer to help the organization organize and stabilize its fundraising infrastructure.
Together, Cheryl and the Y team:
- Grew individual giving by 51% (+$212K) and corporate giving by 70% (+$66K);
- Strengthened information-sharing practices with the Board and executive team;
- Reinvigorated the Development Committee;
- Successfully searched for, hired, and onboarded a permanent Chief Development Officer.
The Full Story
The YMCA is one of the most beloved brands in the nonprofit sector. But in July 2023, the organization found itself without a fully built development function and quickly losing momentum in key fundraising streams.
Recognizing the increasing urgency of building a stable foundation for fundraising, the Y’s CEO engaged RevUp’s Managing Partner, Cheryl Precious, as Interim Chief Development Officer for an initial three-month appointment. But as the organization continued to navigate a complex landscape—including a CEO transition—Cheryl’s role ultimately expanded into an 18-month engagement that stabilized and leveled up the YMCA’s fundraising capacity.
Cheryl quickly diagnosed the Y’s core development challenge: there was plenty of talent and passion, but there was insufficient infrastructure to execute, and no dedicated fundraising leadership. Cheryl immediately got to work stabilizing the organization’s development infrastructure in several key areas:
Focusing the team: Cheryl and the CEO worked together to structure and staff the development team, including hiring two key positions and appropriately resourcing contractor support for additional functions. Cheryl helped the team clarify its goals and focus day-to-day execution on high-ROI efforts that were most likely to help the organization reach its goals. This required developing a tolerance for saying “no,” and systematically evaluating strategies for efficacy. It also meant strategically outsourcing functions – like direct mail – that were better owned externally, and building strong, collaborative relationships with other departments.
Establishing communications and reporting infrastructure: Cheryl established clear reporting structures and cadences, helping the CEO, leadership team, and board make data-informed decisions about the organization’s fiscal position. This included more consistent, standardized processes for CRM utilization and improving data hygiene; implementing a reconciliation process with the finance team; and developing a suite of standardized reports to help leadership make informed decisions.
Managing up to leadership: Throughout her tenure, Cheryl also served as a trusted strategic advisor to three different CEOs, ensuring continuity and momentum through a leadership search. Hired by the outgoing CEO, retained by the interim leader, and further extended under the newly appointed permanent CEO, she built strong relationships with each, providing essential stability and fundraising leadership during a period of transition.
Transitioning the permanent CDO: With a new permanent CEO in seat, Cheryl drove the search and onboarding of the organization’s permanent development leader, ensuring she had the tools and knowledge needed to lead the organization’s fundraising engine to the next level.
Growing key revenue segments: Cheryl’s leadership helped the Y grow individual and corporate contributions more than $275k in just one year, stabilizing the organization’s contributed revenue, establishing a new philanthropic giving circle, and formalizing corporate sponsorships.
The bottom line
During a critical transition period, RevUp’s engagement at the YMCA of Metro Denver helped the organization build the infrastructure, tools, systems, and strategies to continue growing its impact on the community for years to come.
What the client had to say
Here’s what the Y had to say about Cheryl’s work:
Working with Cheryl and RevUp Growth Partners was a game-changer for the YMCA of Metropolitan Denver during a critical transition. She stepped in as interim Chief Development Officer and seamlessly ensured our fundraising efforts not only continued but thrived. Her strategic leadership and deep expertise resulted in a successful fundraising year. We are incredibly grateful for Cheryl’s dedication as she even stayed with the YMCA to ensure I was effectively onboarded. I would highly recommend her to any organization seeking a skilled and reliable fundraising consultant.
– Leisha DeSmet, Chief Development Officer, YMCA of Metro Denver
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