Case Study

USO of Illinois

Chicago, IL

Feasibility Study

The Need

Since 1941, the USO has served as a nonprofit organization that receives no direct government funding, but relies solely on the generosity of the American people. The USO of Illinois touches the lives of more than 318,000 Active Duty, Guard and Reserve military and military families throughout Illinois, providing over 300 programs and services that enhance lives and raise morale through unique recreational, educational, and cultural opportunities.

With its centers in dire need of modernization to meet the needs of 21st century soldiers and families, and with interest in providing military transition programs, the Board and leadership team identified funding priorities. They also wanted to know how much could be raised in a special campaign to meet these needs.

How We Helped

Rubin & Associates conducted a campaign feasibility study to:
• Draft a compelling case for support and test how donors react
• Determine how much could be raised
• Discover where the lead gifts will come from
• Identify the strongest volunteer leaders for a campaign
• Assess readiness of staff, board, and systems

The Outcome

Consultants Susan Loiacano, Doug Diefenbach, and Michael Rubin worked closely with key staff and a Feasibility Study Task Force, interviewing key stakeholders to seek input and assess generosity. Through analysis and experience, we recommended moving ahead with a more modest campaign with recommendations about addressing several key issues donors raised prior to moving ahead.

From the Client

“Michael and Susan are so great to work with. Their years of experience and willingness to take on any task delivered the necessary wisdom and resources to make our campaign a success. They became part of our team, keeping us focused as we struggled with managing a campaign as well as annual fundraising and providing support with strategy and execution on major gifts. We were lucky to have them as part of our team!”
-Alison Ruble, President and CEO