It Takes a Village

Like many nonprofit organizations, the pandemic put many strains on A Better Chance of Andover. Beyond having to develop a whole new “Covid Protocol” program to adjust to the living, learning, and emotional needs of the Scholars, ABC also had to rethink fundraising. Early in 2021, it was unclear whether in-person events would be able to happen for the year, so ABC had to once again look for alternatives to its annual major fundraising Gala, which is typically held each fall. 

According to Mark Ayers, ABC of Andover 1969 graduate, “The idea was simple, let’s first reach out to alumni and start to build a robust community for them, encouraging their participation broadly—whether through a donation to the match campaign, an inspiring story to share on the website, or becoming a mentor to current Scholars. We were impressed by the Alumni participation and plan to continue to nurture the alumni community with events, speaking opportunities, and further mentorship programs.”

The organization then reached out the Andover Business Community to help “fuel” the match campaign. A goal to raise $30,000 from both alumni’s and businesses’ donations by the end of the summer was set and reached.

During two weeks this October, ABC challenged the greater Andover community—both past and new donors—to match the $30,000 raised by the alumni and business community. That match was made and was exceeded. Community Building Match Campaign raised over $70,000.

“We knew the A Better Chance of Andover community, including alumni, local businesses and the people of Andover, was strong and this campaign demonstrated just how powerful it is,” shared Julie Ireland Childs who led the fundraising team, “As they say, it takes a village and what a village we have that surrounds our ABC program! Without a doubt, together we are helping to reduce inequity in education and open doors, one student at a time.”