|
For its annual Salute to Leaders fundraising event, Cincinnati Christian University engaged the services of Smith Beers Yunker & Company in an effort to raise funds prior to the special event thereby improving outcomes. Taking the lead on this project was Becky Sittason, CFRE.
According to event chair David Buffenbarger, an accountant by profession, the cost of engaging professional counsel was offset by the success of the event. Says David, “Becky’s guidance allowed us to do more with this event than we could have done on our own. Not only did we raise more money than we’ve ever raised before but we also adopted new concepts and approaches we can continue to use for future events. Becky really challenged our committee to be more active and think more creatively.”
David goes on to explain that Smith Beers Yunker “provided a very comprehensive service, from giving us a high level strategic plan for the event to organizing meetings and putting together lists. Not only was Becky involved in every step of the process, she also held our committee members accountable for their part. Having that kind of help made it easy for me to chair the event, which is something I had not done before.”
CCU president, Dr. David Faust, concurs that the services provided by Smith Beers Yunker were of great value to the University. “It was enjoyable working with Smith Beers Yunker. Becky Sittason was professional, knowledgeable and upbeat, with a strong grasp of the local philanthropic landscape. She worked hard to learn what we wanted to accomplish and helped us refine and implement the fundraising strategy for our event.”
David Buffenbarger comments further on the follow-up services provided by Smith Beers Yunker, saying, “The report we received at the conclusion of the event gave us a thorough recap of this year’s event along with helpful guidance on how to continue in the future. I would tell anyone who may be hesitant to hire professional counsel that our experience with Smith Beers Yunker was very positive. Don’t let the added cost get in the way of a better project.” |