Transitioning From The Readiness Assessment Into The Capital Compaign

By Carl Graber
There are few times in the life of a Capital Campaign that are more challenging for the consultant than the transition from Readiness Assessment to the Capital Campaign, itself. Challenging “ like a one-armed paper hanger in a wind storm”, because, we must plan ahead for the campaign while proceeding through the assessment. We cannot wait until the last part of the Readiness Assessment, but we must begin our campaign planning immediately. Planning ahead creates productivity, enthusiasm, momentum and is a must do!
First of all, I find it very helpful to use a very extensive checklist, which details all of the advance work that is necessary. The checklist (to do list) can include daily, weekly and monthly checkpoints, including the tasks and communication which should accompany each task. Regarding the tools of the trade, nothing works much better for me than this checklist. Several colleagues have improved it with more details and useful reminders. It should include all of the documentation and duplication of materials and messages which are needed to communicate effectively with volunteers, church leaders and staff.
The checklist begins, even before we arrive on-site, with clear communication with the Senior Clergy and/or other leaders. They must be informed of all preparation necessary before our arrival. We must provide them with the needs of preparation for the Readiness Assessment in advance of arrival, such as architectural renderings, invitation letters, campaign timeline, meeting schedules, leadership and volunteer recruitment.
Finally, as we progress through the Readiness Assessment, we must be very proactive in the recruiting volunteers, preparing materials and developing a scale of gifts. This is certainly not a complete or comprehensive review of the transition from Readiness Assessment to Capital Campaign, but hopefully, helpful information.