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Committed to making the National Library of Australia’s (NLA) most impactful and unique cultural heritage truly accessible to all Australians, this is a humble story of extraordinary passion to unlock the treasured voices of its collection through digitation. This story has yet to have its final chapter written.
Episode 6: Ryan Stokes, Dame Nellie Melba and Patrick White’s reading glasses: the story of the National Library of Australia’s Treasured Voices campaign ambitions for $30 million.
Melissa's key learnings from the story:
- The role of leadership is critical in mega gifts and delivery campaigns. Leadership at NLA was not only demonstrated in the $1M gifts that were made, contributed to campaign targets – but by reinforcing the importance of philanthropy as a strategic priority for the organisation at Board level down. This leadership and these gifts gave the organisation confidence that this was possible. This builds momentum internally and externally with donors.
- Board members are critical advocates and ambassadors, opening doors an organisation may otherwise not be able to access. NLA did not know Wakils but through a Board member, and they were able to build a trusted relationship that resulted in a significant gift for NLA.
- To be successful, leadership must invest time in fundraising. Marie-Louise spoke about dedicating 20% of her time to fundraising – and she enjoys it!
Recommendations to apply in your own organisation:
- Board giving is important in achieving targets, reinforcing organisational priorities and building momentum.
- Board members can play critical roles in opening doors and building trust.
- Invest time in making philanthropy and fundraising a priority, and enjoy doing it!