Turning Ideas into Action with the Alliance Board
When the Alliance board realized the Alliance could do more work and reach more people if they diversified beyond grant funding, they knew something had to change. Board President Angela DelPup helped lead the board in a new direction, one where board members wouldn't just govern but also actively help raise funds and bring new supporters to the organization.
The board brought in consultants to help everyone understand their role beyond fiscal responsibility, established a fund development committee, and started asking important questions: How can we best use our resources? What could lighten the load on staff while still making an impact?
That's when they hit on something special: what if the board planned and hosted their own event? "We have really talented board members who had great ideas for a smaller event and how to bring in key people to get to know the Alliance," Angela shares.
The idea for a garden party was born and last summer on June 17th, it became a reality. Board member Jeff Zook and his husband, David Assemany, graciously opened their beautiful home and gardens for a memorable evening. Jeff, a retired Detroit Symphony Orchestra musician, recruited two colleagues and together provided an intimate concert. Guests strolled around the gardens and engaged in meaningful conversations about the Alliance's prevention and recovery programs. The intimate setting was intentional, so that board members could personally connect with every guest and share what makes the Alliance's work so vital.
The result: more than $5,000 was raised to support youth prevention programming, community partnerships, and recovery support. But the impact went beyond the dollars.
"The event not only raised money, but it also served as a team-building experience for the board," Angela notes. "By bringing people together in a different setting, you get to know them in a different way." The board grew closer, guests left inspired, and more people were introduced to the Alliance’s work.
This kind of success doesn't happen by accident. What’s behind the Alliance Board’s ability to make it? "First and foremost, we work closely with the Alliance leadership team. Our dedication to strategic planning, evaluation, and adjustment every year is essential. We look at the needs in the moment rather than sticking with what we've always done," Angela emphasizes. "Even with the garden party, we kept fine-tuning as we went and created an evening that brought people closer to the Alliance."
For anyone thinking about getting involved, Angela's advice is straightforward: learn about the organization. She recommends, “Meet with the leadership to learn more. Come to any of our events, trainings, or programs, and get to know what we do.”
"And if you like what you've seen, please support us and get involved," Angela encourages. "When you help create awareness or raise funds, you're helping the Alliance save lives and build healthier communities."
The garden party proved that you don't need a huge production to make a real difference. Sometimes all it takes is opening your home, inviting the right people, and sharing a cause you believe in.
If you or a group would like to help the Alliance by raising funds and introducing new friends to our work, please send us an email at [email protected].