Pacific Symphony

Situation

Pacific Symphony's fundraising had long been a major gifts juggernaut due to highly-developed personal relationships and excellent patron experience. As the pandemic marched on in late-2020, it was struggling with the inability continue stewarding these relationships through in-person concerts, questioning how to position its message, and experiencing a shrinking base of donors.

Result

Over the next three years, RSC Associates helped Pacific Symphony develop an institution-wide message that was community-based, value-centric, and future-focused; increase Board involvement; and implement an effective system of communication and solicitation to its broad-base constituents. These advancements were supported by ongoing coaching with the development team as well as a multi-year staffing plan to resource growth opportunities with talent.

In one year, annual contributions grew by $1.5 million, setting the pace for recovery and positioning the Symphony to look towards long-term sustainability. In the first year that RSC Associates was engaged to manage the Symphony's broad-base solicitations, contributions increased by 60%, the number of donors increased by 33%, and the average gift increased by 20%.

What the Client Said

 “I recommend RSC, whether a big fundraising shop or smaller organization.  Working with RSC Consulting has elevated Pacific Symphony’s direct mail and fundraising strategy. Their expertise and insights have revitalized our approach, leading to meaningful growth in numbers of donors and revenue. Through their guidance, our direct mail campaigns have become more targeted, compelling, and personalized, resulting in increased engagement and donor contributions.  Bob and Cat are great partners, providing empathetic and supportive comments that build our confidence and focus.”

-John E. Forsyte, Executive Director