From late 2003 into 2004, we worked closely with Sojouners to help with major gifts and cultivate mainly existing donors. Over time, this role migrated to a more city-focused strategy with Criterion working directly on the acquisition of new donors and key relationships.

Along the way we discovered that in this case engagement was easy. People were immediately engaged with the work of Sojourners. But, the question was how to sustain those relationships.

The acquisition and cultivation of donors and other key relationships needs to be driven within the context of local social justice networks. As a national organization, Sojourners needs to be grounded in a local presence. This creates the strongest reinforcement of messaging and the most efficient strategies to reach new donors.

The current image of Sojourners is built around its leadership. There is a limited access to this leadership but there is great potential for a more grass-roots, local form of connection. It is this local connection that can build and sustain strong relationships.

Expansion of the existing donor base will be most efficient if focused geographically around core cities. While this doesn’t preclude cultivation activities outside of these cities, it sets priorities and focuses attention.

Sojourner attracts high level names and relationships who believe in the potential of Sojourners. These need to be cultivated so that they are prepared to engage and deliver in response to a new demand. That will require strategies that are different from the city networks.

Info on outcomes.