Greetings,
Since the Washington State Combined Fund Drive was moved to my office two years ago, we have made great strides to improve our state’s charitable giving program.
This effort has not come without challenges. In pursuing a better program, we have also inherited higher costs. In the past, our annual administrative costs have been around 8%. However, a recent spike in our rental and facilities costs, along with the hiring of two new full-time salaried employees and a slight drop in revenue have combined to make our current administrative costs on pace for 18% in 2012.
I recognize the significance of this increase, and as a firm believer in the power of charity, I recognize that every dollar a donor gives to the cause of their choice should be maximized. That is why we have taken the following steps to combat our growing costs:
- The hiring of a full-time dedicated IT staff member to help revamp our site, making it easier for our stakeholders and ultimately leading to greater revenue generation.
- The hiring of a full-time Development Director, who will not only help both increase revenue from donors, but will also pursue outside corporate sponsorship to bring down the costs of doing business.
- An exhaustive search for venues to lower rent/facilities costs
- An agreement with Capitol City Press to significantly lower printing costs on CFD marketing materials
- A restructuring of current contracts to optimize the program’s return on investment
I believe this increase in administrative percentage is temporary, and that it will lead to a program that will better assist all parties involved. I ask for your patience in the upcoming year, and encourage all donors to continue giving knowing that the dedicated staff at the Combined Fund Drive is working tirelessly to bring down our administrative costs at every opportunity.
As always, if you have any questions about administrative costs, or any other issues related to the Combined Fund Drive, please do not hesitate to call Stephanie Horn, Special Programs Director, at 360-704-5258.
Regards,
SAM REED
Secretary of State
Below is the financial breakdown of the Combined Fund Drive for the calendar year of 2010. More updated numbers for 2011 will be made available in the coming weeks. Thank you for your patience.
