We’ve enjoyed a long relationship with the Hebrew Free Loan Association (HFLA), helping them grow their annual fundraising event since its inaugural debut in 2014. In 2017, it became clear that the event had reached capacity at their existing venue – the lobby and social hall of Temple Emanu El in Orange, Ohio.

It was clearly time for a move, but where, and would supporters follow? This is a common worry of non-profit organizations. They’re afraid to change things too dramatically, for fear of not being able to bring donors along. In this case, we were mindful that they might lose some of their regular following and would have to plan for that outcome.

We picked a sophisticated venue, ideally suited for the event – the Silver Grille at the Ritz Carlton in Downtown Cleveland – and planned an elegant evening attractive to their supporters and the audience they hoped to reach. Event attendance grew by more than 25 percent!

Year after year, this event continues to grow and break fundraising records. In addition to moving the location, we’ve implemented efficiencies that have freed up their staff, enabling them to spend time on other vital areas, like developing relationships with new sponsorship and increasing donor contributions.