Fundraising strategies for 2026, with Joe Richards and Heather Withrow - CampHacker #222
Strategies that work! The 2026 Playbook for Camp Fundraising
If you’re still fundraising like it’s 2019, you’re leaving money and mission on the table. In this deep-dive update, Travis Allison, Joe Richards, and Heather Withrow unite to discuss what actually works in the current landscape of camp development.
From securing $650,000 "bespoke" gifts to using AI as a "body double" for accountability, this episode covers the tactical shift from broad campaigns to personalized, intentional relationship building. Whether you are an Executive Director struggling to find time to call donors or a development professional looking to modernize your tech stack, this episode provides a roadmap for sustainable growth.
Key Takeaways:
The Shift to Bespoke Asks: Heather highlights the power of "permission-based fundraising." Instead of cold asks, she builds proposals around specific donor "friction points."
Monthly Giving & Alumni: Travis discusses the success of targeting staff alumni for operational monthly gifts. Because alumni know the "grind," they are the perfect group to fund the unglamorous essentials of camp life.
Flash Appeals for Emergency Needs: Joe shares the "Fridge Story". A broken fridge led to an emergency appeal that raised double the required funds in 24 hours. The secret? Being specific, urgent, and allowing donors to "buy the whole thing."
Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp Director
Travis - Adaptive Listening Book, by Nicole Lowenbraun, and Maegan Stephens
Joe - The Comet Browser
Heather - Giving USA (Canadian Version: Canada Helps)
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Your Hosts
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro
Joe Richards, Executive Director of Pearce Williams
Heather Withrow, President of Jumonville
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