CLIENT
School of the Incarnation
Gambrills, Maryland
SERVICE
Plan for Advancement
Feasibility Study &
Capital Campaign
CAMPAIGN GOAL
$3.2 million
VISION GOAL
$4.5 million
The Challenge
School of the Incarnation had no formal development effort in place. Fundraising relied almost entirely on events, with no development office, system, or professional leadership dedicated to advancement.
The school was academically strong and mission-driven, but it lacked the infrastructure required to sustain growth, build long-term relationships, and plan confidently for the future.
The Approach
School leadership invited ISPD to facilitate a Strategic Growth Planning process that would engage the broader community and clarify long-term priorities. Hundreds of parents, parishioners, faculty, and other stakeholders participated.
One priority emerged clearly: the establishment of a comprehensive development program. ISPD worked alongside school leadership to design the framework, create the office, and support the hiring of the school’s first Development Director.
With professional leadership and systems in place, the school launched its first Annual Fund and complemented it with intentional major-gift cultivation.
The Results
Over the next two years, the Annual Fund grew steadily, building participation and confidence. That momentum led to a Financial Feasibility Study and a Capital Campaign that exceeded its $3.2 million goal.
Today, the regional Catholic elementary school has a flourishing development office, a committed advancement professional, a sustainable Annual Fund, and a successful capital campaign supporting its mission.
Capital Campaign Video
First
professional development office and director
2 Years
of steady Annual Fund growth and momentum
$3.2M+
capital campaign goal exceeded
The Lesson
When planning precedes fundraising and systems replace events, Catholic schools move from survival to sustainability – building confidence, capacity, and a future rooted in mission.
