Foundation gets PRSA Oregon recognition for fundraising effort

Graphic by PRSA Oregon

Clark College Foundation received an accolade from the Public Relations Society of America’s Oregon chapter (PRSA Oregon) for a one-day fundraising and outreach effort called PenguinsGive.

Clark College Foundation was recognized among 15 other regional seasoned professionals and entities at prestigious public relations agencies, state and county government offices and universities by PRSA Oregon in its merit category during a November 18, 2021, virtual ceremony.

The foundation is in its final stages of Promising Pathways, a $30 million, 7-year fundraising campaign. Another goal is to secure 5,000 new and unique donors. The nonprofit instituted a special day to donate as one of the many ways to reach that goal. PenguinsGive was a 24-hour concentrated time during which all donations made to Clark received a matching donation that doubled the donor’s gift.

The April 29, 2021, effort surpassed its objectives by engaging with 14% more donors and raising 48% more money than anticipated, setting a new one-day giving total for a fundraising initiative. Additionally, the foundation’s social media and a video on its YouTube channel saw more than 5,000 views and comments. Email communications realized more than 11,000 opens and 350 clicks. In all, nearly 5% of individuals reached chose to engage with Clark College Foundation’s brand during the month-long PenguinsGive event period.

PRSA Oregon’s annual Spotlight Award recognizes the best in regional public relations campaigns and tactics that exemplify excellence and leadership in public relations, digital media and integrated communications. The merit award is an honorable mention for good quality work.