Queensland Symphony Orchestra
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s philanthropy program has become personal.
Image courtesy of QSO. Black Box Photography.
‘The most valuable lessons we learned from being mentored by Artsupport Australia was ‘”people give to people” and “fund-raising should always adopt the donor perspective”,’ says Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) Philanthropy Executive Manager, Liesa Hogg.
‘This is obvious to experienced philanthropy managers, but for a newcomer to fund-raising, this advice was one of life’s most valuable lessons. The QSO’s mentor program has been instrumental in expanding its annual donation appeal into a more ‘robust, donor-centric program focused on relationship development; not just giving and receiving of tax deductible gifts,’ adds Liesa.
A complementary annual private giving program called the ‘chair’ donor program was created as a tool to ‘stretch’ gift sizes.
‘Further advice from our mentor, Nigel Harris, about segmentation, stewardship and management helped build the framework of that program. Chair donors can support their favourite musician and enjoy personal involvement through letters and updates, backstage tours and social interaction,’ explains Liesa.
Within 12 months of the program launch, QSO had engaged 15 chair donors across the top levels of the annual giving table. This program has directly increased annual giving income to over $100,000; a significant milestone for the company.
Published 2011
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