Kenyon Together was our 36-hour online giving challenge to alumni, parents, and friends. It was conceived following the pandemic-forced cancellation of our annual Bell-A-Thon on-campus fundraising event, which was scheduled for March 31, 2020. That was pivot #1. We wanted something that conveyed the “we’re all in this together spirit,” and had that communication plan all set for June 10-11, even compiling the kickoff video remotely. Then George Floyd was killed, the protests took off, and our alumni—especially younger ones—demanded ways to support students of color. Pivot # 2. We added giving designations for our Black Student Union and Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and adjusted all our messaging just days before the event. The result was a record-breaking more than $1 million raised, and an increase in participation and new donors.
From the Judges
We loved how they adapted their giving day to the difficult climate of the world and their community. They listened to their volunteers and constituents and adapted their campaign to focus on justice and diversity. Very well done and a LOT of work went into it! Loved the engagement and different initiatives.
