MAJOR DONOR CULTIVATION | Youth Development Organization

The Challenge: KidWorks needed a centerpiece video for their annual Foundations for Success luncheon that would demonstrate long-term transformational impact to major donors—showing not just what the organization does, but the sustained life change that results from their investment.

Our Strategic Approach: Developed intimate testimonial-style narrative featuring a current college student reflecting on her decade-plus journey with KidWorks—from preschool enrollment through college. Strategic storytelling captured her authentic voice describing how staff walked alongside her entire family, supporting not just her but also her siblings’ educational journeys. Filmed over one summer, the narrative arc spans years of impact, creating powerful emotional resonance for major donor audience.

The Outcome:
– Annual luncheon raised **$820,000** in major donor commitments
– Alumni testimonial created emotional centerpiece that drove event momentum
– Demonstrated tangible ROI on educational investment (preschool → college success)
– Family impact angle (multiple siblings served) strengthened case for sustained support
– Authentic student voice provided credible proof of organizational effectiveness

Partnership Model: Annual event content strategy

Strategic Value: The most compelling fundraising stories come from those whose lives have been transformed. This alumni testimonial demonstrates the power of authentic voice—one college student’s gratitude and reflection moved major donors to give significantly because they heard genuine impact, not organizational marketing.