Keys to a Successful Campaign: Southwest Christian School

     By Tom Mueller, Executive Vice President, Southwest Christian School

     Southwest Christian School in Fort Worth, Texas, is a "distinctively Christian" school. So when we considered doing a capital campaign, the first thing we did was bathe that decision in prayer and ask God for His blessing and direction. We have trusted the Lord in this whole process and have stepped out in faith knowing that this capital campaign is about honoring Him and giving Him the praise and glory.

     The feasibility study conducted by the J.F. Smith Group was very important in helping us get off to a good start in our capital campaign. They interviewed about 100 SCS families. From those interviews we came up with our campaign projects, based on the dollar amount the J.F. Smith Group projected we could reach. The families reaffirmed the mission of Southwest Christian School and also gave us great feedback on how we were doing as a school in many different areas. This information was invaluable.

     Another key to getting off to a successful start in our campaign was reaching 100% participation by our SCS Board of Directors, faculty and staff. SCS families really bought into the campaign when they saw the unanimous support of our board, faculty and staff.

     Lastly, the support and direction of our Executive Planning Committee has been tremendous. Having the right leadership in place is critical to the success of any capital campaign.