Benefactor Group is honored to celebrate 25 years serving those who serve the common good. This milestone isn’t just about our journey—it’s about recognizing 25 years of philanthropic successes and the transformative impact those successes have had on people and causes around the world. Together, we fuel causes with powerful fundraising, people, and systems, and we look forward to continuing this work for many years to come.
Nonprofit Campaign Planning Study with the National 4-H Council
For more than 100 years, 4-H has embraced a vision to provide all young people with access to opportunity. Youth in every county and parish across the United States experience 4-H through programs in STEM, healthy living, civic engagement, and agriculture. The organization is backed by a network of 100 land-grant universities, creating pathways for millions of youth to access life-changing opportunities through Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program.
In 2019, National 4-H Council engaged Benefactor Group to conduct a campaign planning study. Benefactor Group evaluated the feasibility of raising funds for a special initiative while sustaining and elevating ongoing contributed revenue—resulting in a nine-figure comprehensive campaign target goal.
The study process identified several potential lead gifts—and even yielded a substantial pledge immediately. Though the campaign was delayed due to the pandemic, Benefactor Group continued to provide strategic counsel as 4-H leaders charted the best path forward.
Navigating a Landmark Gift with Nonprofit Consulting Expertise
In December 2021, National 4-H Council received a transformational $50 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. Benefactor Group advised the President and CEO, senior leadership team, and the Board of Trustees through every step of the process—conducting in-depth research on the donor and gift, offering insights on comparable contributions, counseling on the timing and messaging of the announcement, and developing scenario planning to chart a thoughtful and strategic path forward.
Benefactor Group partnered with 4-H leaders, board members, and Cooperative Extension regional leaders to devise a thoughtful plan for allocating the $50 million. Throughout, the focus remained on amplifying the 4-H system’s mission. Three core principles supported the process at every turn—transformation, inclusivity, and sustainability. The recommendation incorporated input from key stakeholders and balanced current strategic priorities with innovation and long-term sustainability.
Strengthening Nonprofit Campaigns and Philanthropic Impact
Benefactor Group’s partnership with National 4-H Council reflects our shared commitment to empowering future generations. By helping to prepare for transformational fundraising, navigate a historic gift, and chart a course for the future, Benefactor Group supported an organization that empowers six million youth with the skills to lead for a lifetime.
As we commemorate 25 years of serving those who serve the common good, Benefactor Group is proud to celebrate National 4-H Council’s story as a testament to the power of philanthropy to transform lives and communities.
If you’re interested in learning more about how Benefactor Group’s campaign planning and nonprofit consulting services might support your organization, connect with us today. We’d love to talk.
