Colorado Rocky Mountain School

Conducting a Readiness Assessment

Background: The Colorado Rocky Mountain School (CRMS) had recently updated their strategic plan, which included several capital improvements and increased scholarship funding. Significant resources were necessary to achieve the desired outcomes. The school had never had a campaign before, and the board and staff were very anxious about it. The board chair had worked with The Compass Group in the past and facilitated an introduction.

Solution: Compass partnered with CRMS to conduct a Readiness Assessment to evaluate internal and external capacities to implement a successful campaign. Based on the findings, the board of CRMS voted to advance a campaign. CRMS worked in conjunction with Compass to implement the recommendations of the assessment. Teaming with new development leadership, Compass provided high-level strategic direction, board development, training, and day-to-day advice regarding systems, processes, and team building.

Success: Accountability and guidance from Compass enabled CRMS to successfully complete a $10 million campaign, providing the resources necessary to advance the organization’s strategic plan. Even more importantly, the staff, board, and volunteers acquired the skills needed to fundraise on their own.