Client Spotlight: How Feasibility Studies Positioned the YMCA of Greater Seattle for Fundraising Success
YMCA of Greater Seattle’s Mission and Vision
The YMCA of Greater Seattle is deeply committed to building a community where all people—especially the young—are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body. With that mission as its north star, the organization embarked on several major capital improvement efforts designed to expand its impact. To ensure these initiatives were achievable and sustainable, the YMCA partnered with Alford Group to conduct strategic feasibility studies and campaign planning services.
Feasibility Study for West Seattle & Fauntleroy YMCA Renovation
In 2012-13, the YMCA of Greater Seattle engaged Alford Group to assess the potential for a major renovation of the West Seattle & Fauntleroy YMCA branch. The goal: to test the feasibility of raising up to $4.5 million through a philanthropic campaign.
After completing the study, Alford Group recommended launching a 36-month fundraising campaign with an initial goal of $3.5 million. The feasibility study findings indicated strong community support and a clear need for improved facilities that could better serve the evolving needs of West Seattle families.
Campaign Planning Study for the Sammamish Community and Aquatic Center
Shortly after, the Sammamish Family YMCA, in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Seattle, again turned to Alford Group—this time to conduct a Campaign Planning Study. The study evaluated the YMCA’s capacity to launch a successful campaign to support a brand-new community and aquatic center in Sammamish.
The result? A recommendation for a 24-month, $3.0 million philanthropic campaign, to be matched by a $3.0 million commitment from the YMCA of Greater Seattle. This $6.0 million initiative would serve as a cornerstone investment in a public/private partnership with the City of Sammamish. Alford Group also outlined a clear, phased structure for the campaign:
- Awareness Building, Planning, and Lead Gifts Phase
- Major Gifts Phase
- Public Phase
This approach ensured the campaign was built on a solid foundation of community engagement and donor readiness.
Interim Staffing: Strengthening Development Capacity
In addition to the two feasibility studies, Alford Group also served as interim Senior Director of Philanthropy for the YMCA of Greater Seattle Association Office during 2012-13. This temporary staffing engagement helped bridge leadership gaps and reinforce fundraising capacity across the organization.
During this period, Alford Group:
- Provided training and consultation to the Board of Directors and 13 branch executive directors
- Supported two branch boards of managers in pre-campaign readiness efforts
- Offered strategic guidance on planned giving and endowment development
This interim role helped ensure continuity in fundraising strategy and leadership while the YMCA completed its search for a permanent Senior Director of Philanthropy.
Why Conducting a Feasibility Study Is Crucial for Nonprofit Campaigns
These partnerships demonstrate how feasibility studies can serve as essential tools for nonprofits preparing for major fundraising initiatives. By assessing internal readiness, donor engagement and community support, organizations like the YMCA of Greater Seattle were able to:
- Set realistic campaign goals
- Structure their fundraising efforts for long-term success
- Build trust and momentum with stakeholders before launching public appeals
Investing in Strategic Fundraising Pays Off
The YMCA of Greater Seattle’s collaboration with Alford Group illustrates how feasibility studies and campaign planning can lay the groundwork for transformational growth. Whether renovating existing facilities or building entirely new community centers, their commitment to data-driven fundraising strategy enabled them to meet ambitious goals while staying true to their mission.