The challenge
Cancer Council South Australia knew they needed to take action in the face of increased diagnoses and persisting inequality in treatment access and survival outcomes for regional, rural and remote South Australians. Their aging, existing facilities were no longer fit-for-purpose and weren’t meeting the need.
In 2020 they embarked on a campaign to secure $15 million towards a $31 million 120-room home away from home for South Australians travelling to access critical cancer treatments. This new facility offers an integrated approach to accommodation, support, prevention, and research to reduce the burden of cancer on the community.
Our approach
Donor Republic created a strong case for support that donors could easily understand and relate to. Creation of a board-endorsed 18-month action plan, a communications strategy and a focus on engaging key segments at critical points set the campaign up for success.
With a holistic approach towards donor cultivation, solicitation and stewardship, Donor Republic was able to support Cancer Council SA in building meaningful and rewarding relationships that benefitted the campaign and thousands of people facing cancer diagnoses across the state. Donor Republic also supported the Campaign’s public phase with DM appeals, Community Fundraising and Gifts in Wills promotion.
The results
Cancer Council SA successfully completed the campaign in 18 months raising the $5 million from the community and another $10 million from government for this important initiative. Greenhill Lodge now provides the best accommodation and support for cancer patients who are many kilometres from home to access vital treatments.
Our client
Cancer Council is Australia’s leading cancer charity, and the only Australian charity working across every aspect of every cancer, from research to prevention and support.
Learnings
Cancer Council SA improved their donor relationships through good pipeline management and improved internal processes (such as data management, segmentation and reporting practices) to become a stronger fundraising organisation.
Their fundraising and bequest income went from $7.4m in 2020 to $26.49m in 2023. The best bit is that every dollar makes a positive difference to the 28 South Australians who are diagnosed every day and the wider community.
