When any institution begins to consider a major fundraising endeavor, it is common for the leadership to contemplate conducting the appeal "in-house."  While the administration and leadership are well intentioned, their tendency is to underestimate the work involved with conducting such a campaign. All too often our clients, especially those who considered an "in-house" campaign effort, will share how grateful they are that they were not alone on this journey.

As you consider your fundraising endeavor, ask yourself the following questions: 

Odds are that even if you have an in-house development team, it would not be feasible for them to take on such a sizable commitment in addition to their regular duties. 

Professional counsel comes equipped with years of experience behind them to address every need of your feasibility study, capital campaign and more. In order for your effort to be successful, you should strive to "Ask Once and Ask Well!" Professional counsel will provide a strong first and lasting impression to your supporters that you are ready to deliver the plans which are presented and that their investment in the future will be successful. 

When considering professional counsel, ask your colleagues who they partnered with, if they would do so again and if, after going through the experience, would they have been able to conduct the campaign on their own.  Professional counsel will raise more money and keep things on track. For your success and the health of your community, hiring professional counsel is well-worth the investment!