Alaska Family Services
Case Study: Alaska Family Services Establishes Sustainability Plan and Implementation
Background
Alaska Family Services (AFS), based in Palmer, Alaska, serves the expansive Mat-Su Borough, a region covering 24,607.90 square miles, nearly the size of Ireland. For over 25 years, AFS had built a strong reputation providing essential human services to the expansive region, while facing increasing demand. Executive Director Donn Benice sought to ensure long-term organizational sustainability through increased donated funds and the establishment of an endowment.
The Challenge
Despite its solid reputation, AFS lacked a structured approach to cultivating ongoing annual funding and long-term endowments. The organization also operated in a state with limited philanthropic culture, where a prevalent "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" mindset often hindered community giving. These barriers made it challenging to secure the consistent financial support needed for sustainable operations.
The SNS Solution
Strawhecker Nonprofit Services (SNS) partnered with AFS to create a comprehensive development plan. The strategy included six key implementation phases:
Preliminary Review: Studying existing operations and conducting initial interviews.
Focus Groups: Engaging stakeholders for feedback.
Targeted Interviews: Speaking with estate planners, current and prospective donors, and corporate and foundation representatives.
The TOP Process: Involving AFS board and staff in strategic discussions.
Assessment and Marketing Plan Development: Using findings to design a geographically specific strategy.
Campaign for Sustainability Fund: Launching targeted efforts to establish a sustainability endowment.
The Outcome
AFS established a Sustainability Board to oversee development initiatives. A geographically tailored marketing plan was implemented, leading to stronger engagement with local and state government officials, collaboration with the Alaska Community Foundation, and enhanced community event impact. Estate planning seminars and personal donor visits further strengthened relationships, increasing annual giving.
The Impact
Through SNS’s support, AFS achieved significant milestones, including:
Increased annual contributions.
Creation of a sustainability endowment.
Broader community engagement through events and partnerships.
Enhanced capacity to serve the growing needs of the Mat-Su Borough community.
This collaborative effort helped AFS build a robust framework for long-term sustainability, demonstrating the power of strategic planning and community-focused initiatives.