Covenant House Alaska raised nearly $25MM ($5MM over goal) for troubled youth

Learn how Covenant House Alaska has raised nearly $25MM (a whopping $5MM over goal) for youth experiencing homelessness and human trafficking.

Since 1988, Covenant House Alaska has served more than 30,000 youth experiencing homelessness or human trafficking. On any given night, CHA provides young people with a warm, safe place to lay their heads. It’s an intentional space where youth can stretch to their greatest potential with art, music, exercise, cultural programs, and computer skills, as well as the necessary services like counseling, education, and job opportunities.

The Challenge:

CHA had already secured much of the capital needed for two separate facility projects: a vocational training center with 19 student housing units and an apartment building with studios for young adults.

However, they needed to raise additional funds for organizational capacity such as program staffing and start-up costs.

Alison Kear, the Covenant House Alaska CEO, set out to raise $20MM, during a tough economic climate.

“I researched to find the best campaign consultant, and ultimately chose Capital Campaign Pro.”

Alison Kear, Executive Director

The Solution:

The Capital Campaign Pro team helped Covenant House Alaska combine the two separate facility projects into one combined campaign, with clear messaging that has inspired and engaged the community.

Capital Campaign Pro advisor, Kristin Raack, provided accountability and regular support to the busy development team. Together, they are launching a planned giving challenge during the campaign’s public phase to foster financial health and sustainability.

“I can’t say enough good things about the online toolkit and services that Andrea and the team have created.”

Alison Kear, Executive Director

Working together, Alison’s team and their Capital Campaign Pro advisor, Kristin, were able to define clear campaign objectives beyond the facility projects, which included staffing, infrastructure, reserve funds, and operational support.

The Impact:

Capital Campaign Pro flew alongside the CHA development team and increased their confidence in major gifts solicitations.

“I am so very grateful to be able to continue to access the best consultants and have at my fingertips everything I need to know to raise the dollars needed to serve young people in Alaska.”

Alison Kear, Executive Director

Thanks to raising 90% of the original $20MM campaign goal in the quiet phase alone, Alison and her staff are now in reach of $25MM ($5MM over the original goal).

“Alison and the Covenant House Alaska team exemplify unwavering commitment to their organization’s mission. They saw a rare opportunity to leverage capital commitments as the impetus to launch a full-scale comprehensive campaign, and they seized the moment! As a result of their tenacity through the campaign process, Alaskan youth will benefit from a campus model that brings together education and employment with housing.”

Kristin Raack, Capital Campaign Pro Campaign Advisor