The Ordinary People Society: Fundraising through the community

The Ordinary People Society (TOPS) is an innovative nonprofit organization headquartered in Dothan, Alabama, that provides a continuum of unconditional support to individuals and their families who suffer the effects of drug addiction, mass incarceration, homelessness, poverty, unemployment, hunger — without regard to race, sex, creed, color, religion, or social status. With a grant from Progressive Multiplier, they are launching a small donor program, sustained by their community base, in order to achieve a deeper financial infrastructure. 

To kick off their project, TOPS reached out their partners to get access to their lists of supporters, and started collecting names through their own community building activities. Their prospect list now includes over 20,000 constituents. 

TOPS is laying the groundwork for a successful campaign by selecting a customer relationship management (CRM) system and updating their website to more effectively collect donations. They have also done research to create a tiered membership program, which will be maintained through a fundraising funnel. They are operating with a goal of launching their program by Giving Tuesday in November. 

Through this project, TOPS expects to raise $50,000 from individual giving, creating a consistent and ongoing source of revenue. 

The Ordinary People Society (TOPS) is a faith-based grassroots organization restoring rights for formerly incarcerated, combating homelessness, and mobilizing communities across the deep South.

This project is currently in progress; final results will be shared in a case study at a later date.