When a nonprofit needs to raise serious short-term money, there is no better strategy than a Major Gifts Ramp-Up™ (MGRU) Signature Ask Event. This powerful approach was on full display recently at Ship Community Outreach Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, where a single evening raised an astonishing $605,000.
Under the leadership of Rev. Chris Jones, President and CEO of Ship Community Outreach Center, and guided by MGRU Counselor Dr. Chris Smith, the event brought together high-capacity donors, community leaders, and powerful testimonials—all focused on one clear goal: raising the dollars needed to sustain and expand Ship’s life-changing programs.
A Night of Inspiration and Generosity
The event was a masterclass in how to tell a story, share a mission, and motivate giving. Chris Smith, serving as Master of Ceremonies, set the tone with energy and purpose, while WRAL Anchor
Reporter Julian Grace co-hosted, lending local credibility and media presence.
The program featured remarks from Guest Speaker Janet Cowell, Mayor of Raleigh, who underscored the importance of Ship Community Outreach Center’s work in transforming lives across the city. But it was the heartfelt testimonial from Rico Boyce, Police Chief of Raleigh, that left the audience visibly moved—sharing how Ship’s programs directly contribute to community safety and personal transformation.
Ship Outreach Honors Their Community’s Impact Leaders
As part of the evening’s program, Ship Community Outreach Center also recognized three extraordinary contributors to its mission:
- Philanthropist of the Year: Brenda Gibson, whose generosity has empowered the organization to serve even more people.
- Community Partner of the Year: Carolyn Hendricks and Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina, celebrated for their unwavering support and collaboration.
- Volunteer of the Year: Pam Parker, honored for her selfless service and dedication to the center’s mission.
These awards were a reminder that impactful work is a team effort—driven by donors, partners, and volunteers who share a commitment to change.
$605,000 Raised: Changing Lives in Raleigh
The real impact of the evening was not just the celebration—it was the $605,000 raised in immediate commitments. These funds will directly support Ship Community Outreach Center’s mission to serve Raleigh’s most vulnerable populations through:
- Feeding Families: Programs like Bread of Life and Galley Grocery ensure that those in need have access to nutritious food.
- Job Training and Employment: The Transitional Employment Initiative (TEI) provides hands-on job skills and life skills training, helping individuals secure stable employment.
- Youth Engagement and Mentorship: The Ship Yard offers a safe, supportive space for youth to grow, learn, and thrive.
- Human Trafficking Prevention: Dedicated programs raise awareness and provide direct support to victims of trafficking.
These funds will not only maintain Ship’s existing programs—they will allow the organization to expand its services, reach more people, and respond to emerging needs in the Raleigh community. In a world where government funding is shrinking and charitable organizations are being asked to do more with less, this support is a lifeline.
The Power of the MGRU Signature Ask Event
Ship Community Outreach Center’s success story is just one example of what a Major Gifts Ramp-Up™ Signature Ask Event can achieve. It is a powerful, efficient, and highly effective way to secure major funding in a single evening—transforming dreams into dollars and ensuring that life-changing work can continue.
For organizations facing funding challenges, the MGRU Signature Ask Event offers a unique solution. Instead of relying on small gifts, special events, or uncertain grants, nonprofits can focus their efforts on the donors who have the capacity to make a transformational difference. This is not just fundraising—it is a movement.
Ready to Host Your Own Signature Ask Event?
Learn how Major Gifts Ramp-Up™ can help you design, plan, and execute a high-impact Signature Ask Event that raises the money you need. Visit www.MajorGiftsRampUp.com or contact our team directly.
Ship Outreach Raises Over Half Million Dollars in One Night Using Major Gifts Ramp-Up was first posted at MGRU News
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