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.
Sparking Generosity in Uncertain Times
In late 2020—during a year defined by global uncertainty—Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation led a comprehensive, cross-channel fundraising effort that redefined what was possible in a moment of crisis. The campaign didn’t emerge by chance. It was the product of committed leadership, clear messaging, and thoughtful counsel from long-time partner Benefactor Group—a collaboration that proved giving is resilient.
Campaign Planning Grounded in Clarity and Collaboration
When COVID-19 forced the cancellation of traditional holiday events, Jean Ford Keane, Deputy Executive Director at the Foundation, saw an opportunity to reimagine year-end fundraising. She envisioned a bold, multi-channel campaign to connect with the community—united by a singular, heartfelt message. To bring this vision to life, she turned to Benefactor Group, building on years of trusted collaboration.
Benefactor Group helped Jean convene a cross-functional team, shape a project plan, and manage execution through every phase. From October through December, the effort took shape as a comprehensive campaign that blended structure, creativity, and accountability—ensuring that no opportunity to connect with donors was missed.
Unified Fundraising Message That Inspired Generosity
With creative support from branding partner Ologie, the campaign launched under the theme Tell Them Yes—a call to say “yes” to the kids and families who so often hear “no.” This message, embedded in every donor-facing channel—from direct mail and digital appeals to sponsorship asks and media coverage—provided consistency, warmth, and a powerful emotional appeal.
Remarkable Fundraising Results in a Year of Uncertainty
Despite the pandemic and economic anxiety of 2020, the campaign delivered extraordinary outcomes:
- Year-end giving increased 74% over the same period in 2019
- The number of donors grew by 28%
- Average gift size outperformed previous years
- And, most significantly, the campaign rekindled a sense of unity and hope across the Hospital, Foundation staff, and the broader San Diego community
A Long-Term Growth Partnership Rooted in Resilient Giving
Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation’s success during this pivotal moment was not an isolated event. It reflected the momentum of a long-standing partnership with Benefactor Group, which began in 2017 and has included a campaign planning study, executive coaching, board governance support, campaign counsel, and capacity building initiatives. In every phase, Benefactor Group helped strengthen internal systems, align leadership, and elevate philanthropic potential.
Tell Them Yes exemplified how capital campaign principles—vision, structure, leadership, and message—can be applied to short-term initiatives with lasting results. And it demonstrated that even in times of upheaval, when plans are disrupted and traditions suspended, generosity can still thrive.
As we honor 25 years of serving those who serve the common good, Benefactor Group proudly celebrates Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation—a growth partner whose work embodies the enduring spirit of philanthropy.
