Key Nonprofit Highlights
The Literacy Center of West Michigan provides free, tailored literacy support for immigrants, refugees, and English speakers, focusing on community needs. They play a key role in workforce development, support pathways to citizenship, improve healthcare access, assist returning citizens, and collaborate with schools on two-generational literacy programs. The Literacy Center successfully transformed their annual “Spellebration” gala into a virtual event with the help of Bloomerang Fundraising. Despite the challenges of hosting their first virtual event, they used tools like a Fundraising Hub and text-to-donate integration to engage supporters and raise 103% of their $15,000 goal. Bloomerang’s technology and customer service provided critical support, enabling the team to inspire generous giving and navigate the complexities of virtual fundraising with ease.
Challenge
Seeking software solution to run a first-time virtual event
When faced with the challenge of transforming their annual “Spellebration” gala into a virtual event, the Literacy Center of West Michigan encountered uncharted territory. The gala, typically a hallmark event that drew 350 attendees, needed a reinvention. With little precedent for virtual events in their area and no data to rely on, Libby Crabb, the Development Director, knew this would be a pivotal undertaking. “It was our first time doing a virtual event and one of the first major virtual events in Grand Rapids, so we didn’t have a ton of data to go on,” said Crabb. “We figured a lot of it out as we went!” The stakes were high—not only was this a vital opportunity to raise funds with an event that typically drew 350 attendees, it was also a moment to sustain and engage their community. The Literacy Center needed a way to inspire generous giving and foster participation while tackling the complexities of virtual event management.
Solution
Pairing Bloomerang’s Fundraising Hub with text-to-donate features
Turning to Bloomerang Fundraising for support, the Literacy Center leveraged a comprehensive suite of tools designed to maximize event impact and donor engagement. Building on a successful fundraiser earlier that year, the team set up a Fundraising Hub that provided an innovative and interactive way to galvanize momentum. “Leading up to our event, we set up a Fundraising Hub and linked our text-to-donate donations so they showed up in real time on our campaign thermometer,” explained Crabb.
This transparency encouraged supporters to track and celebrate progress, building excitement and urgency. Beyond the intuitive technology, Bloomerang’s exceptional customer service brought their team invaluable peace of mind. “The Customer Experience team was amazing!” Crabb shared. “If I had a question, I just had to send a quick email, and they talked me through anything I needed.”
Results
In love with Bloomerang Fundraising
The outcome exceeded all expectations. The Literacy Center surpassed their ambitious $15,000 fundraising goal, securing $15,454—103% of their target—despite the challenges of hosting their first virtual event. For Crabb and her team, Bloomerang proved to be more than just a platform—it was a reliable partner in furthering their mission. As Crabb remarked, “If I can get customer service that can help me walk through something that readily, I’m in love!” Bloomerang’s partnership with the Literacy Center of West Michigan underscores what’s possible when technology and teamwork empower nonprofits to adapt creatively and exceed their goals.
