Case

If you look up the word “case” in the dictionary, you will see it defined as a set of facts or arguments supporting a particular action or cause. In French, we use the word argumentaire, evoking a line of reasoning that persuades. As illustrated by these definitions, we see the origins of the word related to our work as fundraisers – that charities need to make the “case” for supporting them.

And while all of this is helpful, one big question still remains.

What exactly is a Case?

There is a tendency to throw around the word “Case” to mean a great number of things. One of the most pressing challenges with how the Case is being thought of and developed in many organizations is the tendency to think of it through the lens of a written document that serves as the source for all communications and solicitation activities. Too narrow, this definition doesn’t encompass all the elements required to create a Case for Support, starting first with the organizational vision and the fundraising priorities.