Shared Effort

By Natasha Robinson, Development Officer

In our ongoing effort to keep you informed about what Princeton Project 55 is doing to strive for financial equilibrium in these challenging economic times, here is a brief fundraising update.

PP55 staff and volunteers raised a total of $215,072 during fiscal year 2008-09. Although the amount raised from individuals was approximately $20,000 less than what was raised in the previous fiscal year, Princeton alumni participation increased by an impressive 9 percent.

A total of 348 donors invested in the mission of PP55 (view our Donor List by clicking here). Our fellowship and internship alumni donors represented all 20 years since PP55’s 1989 inception.

Last year was also a record year for PP55 funding from foundations; we received $146,557 from foundations and corporations. This support helped to mitigate the loss of funding from individuals. However, as with many nonprofits this year, PP55 will be unable to rely on this support as our most generous foundation supporters will be cutting back on their contributions. Project 55 will need to rely more on support from individuals in the coming year.

“Last fiscal year was certainly difficult—but we were able to negotiate with vendors, consolidate staffing, and rely heavily on support from foundations,” says Executive Director, Kathleen Reilly. “We predict that 2010, Project 55’s 20th Anniversary year, will be the most challenging economic year in PP55’s history. We are expecting a startling 50 percent decrease in foundation funding. We hope that we can rely on everyone to attend our celebratory 20th Anniversary Gala in Princeton on May 27, and really stretch for Project 55 this year. Our impact is only made possible because so many passionate, dedicated alumni give.”

In our 20th Anniversary year, Project 55 is relying on your support now more than ever. We have launched a 100% Appreciation Challenge for our fellowship and internship alumni to give in honor of their experience and to ensure that PP55 continues to provide alumni of all ages with opportunities to serve the public interest. Make your gift count for the future of PP55 and donate today!