Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center, nestled among the cliffs and plains of New Mexico, has long been a spiritual destination and creative oasis. However, after decades of frequent use, parts of the ranch, particularly its housing, were in serious decline. In response, the organization’s leaders developed a comprehensive vision for a restored campus, proposing a fundraising campaign in 2021 to launch the first phase: a 50-room lodge, marking the first new housing construction in a decade.

Benefactor Group partnered with Ghost Ranch to assess the potential for raising funds from various constituents, including the Presbyterian Church. Over several months, Benefactor Group consultants conducted 35 interviews and facilitated three discussion groups to gauge support for the vision and identify committed volunteer leaders. The findings revealed strong support for the initiative and highlighted the opportunity to nurture and rebuild donor relationships.

Based on this assessment, Benefactor Group recommended a $7.5 million campaign to support the first phase of the restoration. The firm is currently collaborating with Ghost Ranch to strengthen donor relationships, enhance fundraising capacity, and secure pacesetting gifts to ensure the campaign’s success.