Time to Worry? 4 Tips for Capital Campaigns Centered Around DEIAB
- Kristin Raack
- Apr 28
- 1 min read
Kristin Raack contributed an insightful article to Capital Campaign Pro offering guidance for nonprofits whose capital campaigns are grounded in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIAB). Drawing on deep sector knowledge, she provides four essential strategies to help organizations stay true to their values—even when they’re under scrutiny.
In the post, Kristin encouraged organizations to:
Not Panic. Assess. Instead of abandoning your DEIAB-centered campaign, use scenario planning to evaluate risks, such as the potential impact of federal funding cuts, and determine whether to proceed, pivot, or pursue gap funding.
Lose the Jargon, Keep the Intent. Replace loaded, overused terms like “DEI” with clear, evocative language that illustrates your values in action - valuing uniqueness, fostering belonging, and meeting real community needs.
Choose Campaign Leaders and Partners that Reflect Your Values. Ensure your campaign’s leadership and select partners embody the values you’re advancing through DEIAB, reinforcing the integrity of the campaign’s mission.
Be Bold With Your Key Partners. While economies, administrations, and tools change, your most loyal supporters remain steadfast. Focus on “the people who get you” by using the It’s a Wonderful Life–inspired George Bailey experiment: if your nonprofit closed, who would be most heartbroken? Who would lose their beloved community? Affirm your values for these core supporters - stay true to your mission, but adapt your message to strengthen their commitment.
This post is especially relevant for organizations committed to advancing inclusion and belonging through their fundraising efforts. Kristin’s perspective reminds us that even when social values are in the spotlight, thoughtful planning and authentic language can reinforce, rather than derail, a campaign’s core purpose.
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