A vibrant Alumni community is the greatest asset an institution can have. With a proper approach, Alumni Networks can be harnessed for the success of an Institution by improving infrastructure, academic curriculum, placements, etc. One such benefit is the Alumni Fundraising, a give-back program where Alumni are actively engaged in the institutional development of their Alma mater. It acts as a silver lining to the Institution, which can be used for improving the campus facilities or providing scholarships for students.
Once they get on their feet, former students are happy to help their alma mater and look for ways to contribute. Presenting Alumni with options to donate and communicating effectively will go a long way when asking Alumni for funds.
Have a look at the following fundraisers that can be incorporated into your Alumni fundraising activities.
Endowment
Campaigns that seek to build a long-term financial base for the Institution by creating permanent funds that generate interest or dividends to support ongoing academic programs, scholarships, or other initiatives. Alumni are encouraged to contribute to these endowment funds, leading to development and leaving a lasting impact on the Institution.
Scholarship for Students
This is focused on generating scholarships for current students. Alumni donate to scholarship funds that help financially disadvantaged students access education and academic services and enhance their careers.
Infrastructure
Educational institutions can run campaigns encouraging alumni to make regular donations, either yearly or monthly. These funds have a specific purpose, mainly funding new research facilities, upgrading technology, developing infrastructure, and supporting curriculum programs.
Community Service
This is nothing but events that combine the efforts of the Alumni community for a specific cause while also engaging in service-oriented activities. These community service fundraisers raise money for important causes and foster a sense of unity, cooperation, and civic responsibility within the community.
Sponsoring Events & Fests
Alumni can organize fundraising events tied to college events or sports activities. They can include alumni sports tournaments, marathons, or other athletic events to raise funds for sports facilities, equipment, or programs. Might also organize events to raise funds for art exhibitions, concerts, fests, etc., within the Institution.
Means to collect –
1. Alumni Fee from Graduating Students.
2. Membership Fee for Alumni as per benefits – e.g., Life Member, Platinum, etc.
3. Alumni Reunions & Homecoming.
4. Selling Merchandise with the logo of Almamater
Alumni fundraising is crucial in supporting educational institutions financially and enabling them to enhance their offerings and create better experiences for current and future students. While it’s not an overnight achievable concept, developing a comprehensive alumni engagement and fundraising strategy that can span multiple years allows for sustained efforts and more significant impact.