Proposed Volunteer Outreach Cadence
We’ve adopted a peer-to-peer, portfolio-based approach to outreach, which aims to create a continuing conversation between volunteers and classmates all year long (and then carry over to next year)! As we’ve moved to a new model for volunteer outreach, we wanted to supply a proposed outreach cadence for volunteers. Please note that these examples are simply suggestions and any sample text is there to give you an idea of what each topic might entail. Feel free to adapt to your class. You should not feel obligated to use each of these touchpoints. In fact, many can be combined. As always, reach out with any questions!
Introduce Yourself and Purpose
“Hi Sarah! Hope you’re doing well. Your name sounds so familiar, but I’m not sure if we ever crossed paths on campus. I’m reaching out to you today because I’ve volunteered on behalf of the Vassar Class of 2012 to check in with some classmates throughout the year. Please let me know if you have any questions about what’s going on with campus. I’ll be in touch soon! Best, Joe”
First (Soft) Ask
“I know that you’ve supported Vassar in the past through gifts to Scholarships. That’s such a great cause! Gifts from alums like us can make such a difference in the lives of students. Would you consider making a contribution again this year in honor of our 10th Reunion?”
CYE Follow-Up
“Just wanted to check in. Hope you’re staying well! Since you normally give in the fall, I thought I’d shoot you a quick reminder that the tax deadline for charitable gifts is December 31. Easiest way to give is, as always, give.vassar.edu. If you want to give by check, make sure it’s postmarked in time.”
Prep for GenVC
“Get ready! For the month of February, Vassar is running a decade-based giving challenge called GenerationVassar. We need to see the Class of 2012 claim the 2010s crown. A generous classmate is sponsoring a challenge: if we reach 30% participation, they will donate $5,000. Hope to be able to count on your gift!”
GenVC Participation Ask
“The Class of 2012 is in it to win during #GenVC! We only need 10 more gifts to reach our goal of 30% participation. Help us unlock $5,000 by making a gift today!”
GenVC Thanks
“Thanks to your support, the Class of 2012 blew away our goal of 30% for a total participation of 37%! That’s the highest participation we’ve had since graduation. Thank you! More than just a competition, Generation Vassar signifies the importance of the Vassar community yesterday, today, and forever.”
Founder’s Day Outreach
“Though this year’s Founder’s Day looks a lot different than years past, we know that Vassar students will always find a way to celebrate. I still have the t-shirt from our senior year! I hope you’re doing well on this Spring day and thinking of Vassar!”
Reunion (if applicable)
“Has it already been five years? Reunion is just around the corner. We have a lot of great things planned for the weekend. I hope you’ll join in the festivities. See you there!”
FYE Clean-Up
“Hi Sue! Just a friendly reminder that Vassar’s fiscal year ends June 30. Please join me by making a gift today!”
Virtual Events (not time-specific)
“I’m not sure if you saw this, but our classmate, Jane, is participating in an upcoming panel on real estate in this new landscape. It looks fascinating and I thought you might be interested in joining.”