Case Study: Community Action boosts net revenue and saves $50,000 by moving its gala online with Greater Giving

Community Action - Customer Case Study

Community Action of Washington County (founded 1965) provides energy assistance, early childhood and parenting support, homelessness prevention, renter aid and other services to help people meet basic needs. When COVID-19 forced cancellation of their April Kaleidoscope Gala, the organization had to quickly replace an in-person fundraiser—sponsors, videos and most auction items were ready, but they needed a way to preserve revenue and engagement virtually.

Working with Swaim Strategies and Greater Giving, Community Action shifted to a livestreamed event using Vimeo/YouTube, pre-recorded speakers, a 10-person support team, an online bidding platform and a live “thermometer” appeal board; they also kept the silent auction open two extra days. The virtual gala peaked at 151 attendees, raised silent-auction proceeds at over 71% of value, saved about $50,000 in event costs, and ultimately produced higher net revenue than the prior in-person event.

Community Action

Kemp Shuey

Executive Director