Location
Atlanta
Sector
Social
Services
Fundraising events, organization coaching
YWCA Greater Atlanta is a local chapter of the national organization, YWCA USA, and has been a voice for change for women and families in Georgia since its founding at Spelman College in 1902. YWCA Greater Atlanta provides direct services, empowerment programming, and advocacy to support marginalized individuals and families, especially women and girls of color, while working to challenge structural barriers to equity. Established in 1984, the YW’s largest annual fundraising event, Salute to Women of Achievement, is a luncheon for 500-600 guests during which ten influential women are inducted into the Academy of Women of Achievement.
YWCA Greater Atlanta maintains a strong track record of event sponsorships and donations,and a well-attended pre-event reception and event. Salute is a solid fundraiser that is branded and well-run. Yet, there was an opportunity for additional donor engagement onsite during the event. A text-to-pledge platform was piloted for a few years, but it did not prove effective. Additionally, a luncheon format introducing ten honorees means that the program has to be timed down to the minute and the event must end on time. Adding a fundraising component seemed impossible given the time constraints and established culture of the event.
Alloy has produced Salute to Women of Achievement for 15 years in partnership with YWCA Greater Atlanta. Together Alloy and YWCA Greater Atlanta raise significant funds for the organization’s mission and programs, work with a selection committee to choose the Women of Achievement, and curate a mission-driven program and exceptional guest experience.
Utilizing videos, smart scripting, and inviting guests to eat throughout some of the programming, Alloy was able to carve out 15 minutes for an onsite, live, fund-the-mission component. In alignment with the mission of YWCA Greater Atlanta to serve women, we knew we needed to find a woman auctioneer who could really understand the critical need for the programs of the organization. Programmed right after a moving testimonial, the auctioneer - a single mother of four herself - gave an impassioned case for support and, with gift levels ranging from $25,000 all the way down to $100, she raised $100,000 in 15 minutes.
With 40 classes of Women of Achievement in the room and a renewed focus on our direct services, it was the perfect year to add in a fund-the-mission. Long-time supporters learned about our programs, full tables of academy members raised their paddles together, and a surprise $25,000 gift capped off a successful fundraiser in a program and event rebuilding year.
Working with Alloy has allowed our staff to focus on the mission of YWCA Greater Atlanta - ensuring our event highlights our work and values while Alloy has effectively executed the details of the event
— Danita Knight, President & CEO, YWCA Greater Atlanta
