The Project
Our fundraiser focused on selling reusable masks for $10 each – all funds are going to Casa Central’s holiday efforts. Traditionally they host a toy drive however, with COVID-19 we recognized the toy collection would be an unlikely option, therefore, opted for raising the money. In addition, we chose to go with a mask design that would increase the organization’s awareness while also helping stop the spread of COVID-19.
The Charity
Casa Central is a community organization servicing the Humboldt Park area since 1954, with programming that supports the entire family. Babies and children via daycare and after school programming. Adults are assisted through preventative and transitional services. Senior activities encourage healthy living and include an at home care service program.
Analysis of Success Measures
Being in quarantine and the increase in restrictions while working in the project, made it harder for us to reach our audience. While social media was great for spreading awareness, most of our sales came from contacting our friends and family through text messages, calls, and in-person (while following restrictions).
Raise Funds for Casa Central
Best Case: $4,500
Description: 250 masks sold for $10 each, a profit of $2,500 plus $2,000 employer match, total best case $4,500 or possible donations.
Worst Case: $500
Description: 50 masks sold at $10 each or possible donations. No employer company match attained.
Most Likely: $1,500
Description: 150 masks sold ($10 each) or possible donations. No employer company match attained.
Actual: $3,050 (including $900 company match)
Increase awareness/exposure of Casa Central
Social Media: Amount of like/shares/mentions/#MasksforToys
Best Case: 100
Worst Case: 30
Most Likely: 60
Actual: 199*
*This number is from the Masks For Toys social media sites alone and does not include the team members’ engagement through their personal social media sites.
Increase awareness of use of Face masks and assist in the efforts to slow the spread of COVID19
Best Case: Sell 250 masks
Worst Case: Sell 50 masks
Most likely: Sell 150 masks
Actual: Sold 150 masks
Since not all of the 250 masks that we purchased were sold, the 100 masks remaining were donated to the Organization. They really appreciated the donation of the masks which will help keep them and the individuals they interact with, safe.
Lessons Learned
- Set and follow targets and deadlines, employing the use of the Gannt chart and other PM tools.
- Have an agenda and take meetings’ minutes on a shared document.
Advice for Future Teams
- Having templates to use when sending communications out, saves time and creates a uniform message across different communication channels (e-mails, social networks, others).
- Be in constant communication with the team.
- Following-up is important in order to ensure donations and participation.