Case Statements

To effectively fundraise, every nonprofit must develop a case statement to clearly articulate and reflect the organization. The case statement will become the universal language of the organization through commutative and marketing strategies. The goal of the case statement is to help donors understand an organization while at the same time become inspired and committed. Simultaneously, it can also reinvigorate and engage those already associated with the organization, such as staff, board, and volunteers. If possible, the case statement must include the following components:

• History of the organization
• Mission, vision, and values of the organization
• Experience, achievements, and other strengths that distinguish the organization from others
• Leadership within the organization and the role others to play in strengthening the organization
• Strategic plan including long range goals, timeline and action steps
• The target population for the organization and evidence showing that its programs or services are responsive to that population's needs
• Community assessments including clear evidence supporting the need for the program or project, and/or the urgency of the need
• Rationale for investment in the organization, project, or program
• Anticipated outcomes of the project or program
• Present a variety of avenues for participation (Ex. contributions, volunteering, or leadership roles)
• Show financial accountability (Ex. Annual report, audited financial reports, and a balance sheet)

Steps to Develop a Case Statement

What is the mission of the organization?

What is the vision of the organization?

What are the social ills or the enhancements to the quality of life the organization is trying to address?

What sets the organization apart from others?

How does the organization intend to accomplish its goals? 

What is the history of the organization? 

How are the staff and volunteers consistent with the overall mission of the organization? (e.g. board size, composition, and governance)

What are the sources of income, how will funds be raised, or how will the goals be reached in the organization?

How does the organization demonstrate financial accountability?

Project Profile/Planning Worksheet