CLIENT STORY · ENVIRONMENT & ANIMALS
Reaching a $50 million goal with confidence
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens connects communities with wildlife and wild places. AltruNext partnered with its development leader, board, and staff to bring focus, practical tools, and confidence to a major capital campaign.
The challenge
When Nikki Smith became Director of Development in 2019, she inherited a capital campaign with a $32 million goal. After a pandemic pause, the campaign restarted in 2022 with a $50 million target to reflect rising construction costs.
New to philanthropy, capital campaigns, and board engagement, Nikki needed a clear path forward. The opportunity was to update established fundraising practices while equipping the team to pursue an ambitious goal with confidence.
Our approach
01 · Focus
Clarify campaign priorities, build a donor pyramid, and map a practical solicitation strategy.
02 · Equip
Create a case for support, campaign video, and fundraising toolkit to help the board tell a compelling story.
03 · Train
Lead philanthropy training for board and staff, building shared understanding and confidence.
04 · Coach
Provide ongoing guidance and a trusted sounding board as the development leader moves the campaign forward.
A $50 million goal. A stronger future.
The zoo reached its $50 million campaign goal in fall 2023. The funds were intended to support a new entrance, expanded manatee care, an education campus, and new habitats—while a more confident development leader and team were ready for the work ahead.
$50M
Campaign goal reached in fall 2023
5 → 18
Planned expansion in manatee care capacity
Education
A new campus planned for a future phase
“Working with Kristin, I was confident that we would hit our goals because she helped me focus in and understand what tasks needed to be done and in what order.”
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Nikki Smith
Director of Development during the campaign, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens