District sees 40% increase in major donors following staffing changes

Perrysburg Exempted Village School District is experiencing a significant increase in donor engagement, as highlighted during the recent Special Board Meeting on December 12, 2024. The district reported a rise in the number of donors, with contributions growing from 1,722 in February 2019 to 3,132 last year. This surge in support is attributed to strategic efforts by the development team, particularly the development director's increased outreach to larger donors.

In 2020, the district had 23 donors who contributed $1,000 or more. By the 2023-2024 school year, this number had nearly doubled, reaching 40 high-value donors. This growth reflects the effectiveness of the district's fundraising initiatives and the importance of dedicated staff in fostering donor relationships.

However, the meeting also addressed challenges stemming from staffing changes. The departure of a key position may limit the capacity for administrative support, requiring the development director to take on additional clerical responsibilities. This shift could impact the efficiency of donor engagement efforts, as the director will need to balance outreach with administrative tasks.

The board emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in fundraising efforts to ensure continued support for the district's programs and initiatives. As the district navigates these changes, the focus remains on leveraging the growing donor base to enhance educational opportunities for students.