The Humane Society of Summit County (HSSC) engaged Benefactor Group to conduct a campaign feasibility study aimed at assessing support for a proposed new animal shelter and veterinary clinic. To gauge community sentiment, Benefactor Group consultants conducted 24 interviews with key stakeholders, focusing on their perceptions of HSSC’s strengths and challenges, the appeal of the campaign objectives, potential campaign leaders, and the campaign’s capacity to attract necessary leadership gifts.

The study revealed some skepticism regarding the campaign’s viability. In response, Benefactor Group recommended that HSSC prepare for a capital campaign to fund the construction of the new animal shelter by developing a robust case for support, creating a comprehensive campaign plan, and hiring a dedicated campaign manager. The consultants suggested setting a provisional fundraising goal of $6 to $8 million and advised developing a flexible building plan that accommodates funding availability, with the option to construct the facility in multiple phases. Importantly, they recommended excluding the veterinary clinic from the current campaign and exploring alternative opportunities to expand access to low-cost veterinary care in the community.