Child Help
What happens when an organisation working to improve the quality of life of children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus in low- and middle-income countries also needs to rethink its funding model?
Child-Help faced exactly that challenge and sought external support. In S&L, it found a partner that listens and understands, brings structure and develops a tailored fundraising strategy.
The client
Child-Help works to improve the quality of life of children with spina bifida—a congenital condition in which the spine does not form properly—and hydrocephalus, a condition involving a build-up of fluid in the brain.
Through early detection and lifelong care, Child-Help helps children in low- and middle-income countries grow up with the opportunity to participate fully in their communities.
To make this possible, Child-Help raises funds in Europe and works with local partners to deliver a cost-effective model of care.
The question
Child-Help needed to attract a new generation of supporters while retaining its existing supporter base. Given its substantial operating budget, the organisation wanted to create a more diverse and resilient mix of income.
Together with S&L, Child-Help conducted an in-depth audience analysis, mapping its existing donors and identifying promising new audiences. Using personas as a guide gave the organisation valuable insights and a stronger foundation for strategic fundraising decisions.
The impact
The partnership resulted in a strategic fundraising plan for the three countries where Child-Help raises funds: Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.
The plan ensures that the team’s time and expertise are used effectively and provides clear profiles for future appointments. Child-Help gained a clear strategic direction and a detailed communications and fundraising plan, backed by the internal support needed to put it into practice.
The challenge
Throughout the process, Child-Help had to adapt to changing circumstances. This required a two-track approach: responding to immediate challenges while building an organisation resilient enough to absorb future shocks.
S&L combined empathy with a determination to preserve Child-Help’s original passion and conviction, while helping the organisation introduce greater specialisation and a new structure.
The collaboration
Child-Help and S&L joined forces around shared values. Both were deeply committed to Child-Help’s mission and worked together with mutual respect and a desire to build connection and community. The partnership proved enriching for both organisations.
One for the road: tips from Mieke Van Poucke, Child-Help Belgium
- Establish a clear strategic focus within your organisation. What do you want to achieve over the next five to ten years, and how will you get there?
- Start your fundraising strategy from the perspective of your audiences and the connection they feel to your cause.
- Make the best possible use of the strengths within your team and ensure that people can contribute where they add the most value.
“By involving colleagues and volunteers in our strategic process, we built broader support for fundraising across the entire organisation.
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Child Help had support of these team members
Does this case appeal to you?
We would be happy to discuss your organisation’s specific needs. Two of our consultants will meet with you to explore your request and develop an initial proposal. Based on your feedback and further co-creation, we will then prepare a final proposal.
