How to Use the Slow, Lazy Days of Summer to Propel Your Capital Campaign

All capital campaigns have ebbs and flows. Some phases are naturally busy, others are slower — so it’s easy to assume summer is a time when nothing happens.

After all, donors are likely traveling. You, your staff, and board members probably take time off too.

6 Ways to Advance Your Capital Campaign in Summertime

Summer is often the perfect time for behind-the-scenes work:

• Planning
• Writing
• Meeting with donors whose schedules are lighter

I’m not saying you shouldn’t take time off — you absolutely should. I’m a big proponent of using well-earned vacation days. Rest and recharge.

That said, just because you take two or even three weeks off doesn’t mean the rest of the summer can’t be incredibly productive.

1. Learn a new skill

Identify something you’ve been meaning to learn but haven’t had the chance. Maybe you wish you knew how to use a spreadsheet, read a balance sheet, update your website, or edit a video. There are endless free videos online to teach you almost anything.

2. Try new technology

There’s so much new technology — new apps, services, and programs — that it can feel overwhelming. But when used well, technology saves you real time and effort.

Ask board members, colleagues, and even donors what tools they recommend. Commit to checking them out and experimenting with at least one new tool this summer.

3. Meet with donors

Don’t assume donors are away or unavailable. Just like with everything else in fundraising, you won’t know until you ask. Summer might be the perfect time for a long-overdue conversation.

One of the best approaches I’ve found is asking for an impromptu meeting. Send a text along the lines of:

“Hey—my schedule just opened up tomorrow. Any chance you’re free for coffee or a walk? I’m available all day and would love to connect.”

Most people don’t know their schedule two weeks out, but they usually know what they’re doing tomorrow. If it doesn’t work this time, suggest something the following week, or ask to schedule something a month from now.

4. Catch up with board members

Summer is a great time to meet with board members one-on-one. If it’s been more than a year, use this season to check in on how they’re feeling about their board service.

Here’s a tip — skip the conference room. Invite them for a walk or to sit outside in a local park. A change of scenery does wonders for a real conversation.

5. Reflect, plan, think

Block a few “no meetings” days to do some deep thinking before the busy fall season kicks in.

• Plan how the campaign and annual fund will work together.
• Take time to get prepared for upcoming lead gift solicitations.
• Research the next ten donors on your list.

If your campaign is off track, now is the time to figure out why and brainstorm ways to course-correct.

6. Hire a consultant or coach

If you’re not working with an experienced guide, you’re probably struggling more than you need to. A good campaign consultant brings strategy, accountability, and hard-won expertise to the table.

A capital campaign is not the time to cut corners and make it up as you go. There’s simply too much at stake.

Use the Summer Wisely; It Won’t Last Forever

Here’s the thing: summer feels long when it starts, and then suddenly it’s Labor Day with the fall fundraising season upon you and you’re wondering where the summer went.

The organizations I see thriving in the fall are almost always the ones that used the quieter summer months intentionally — not frantically. A little planning, a few good donor conversations, and some honest reflection can set you up for a fall campaign season that actually feels manageable.

So yes, take your vacation. Enjoy it. Then come back and make the most of what’s left.