Best of CASE District V Award
 

Institution: Miami University

Title of entry: Your Giving Matters: Miami University Women's Rowing Team Video

About this entry: The video highlights the impact of the Women’s Giving Circle grant on the Miami University Rowing Club, a student-run and self-funded organization. The primary audience includes alumni, donors, and potential supporters who can contribute to the team’s continued success. The goal of the video is to demonstrate the impact of collective giving, showcase the necessity of external funding for club sports, emphasize the tangible benefits of donor support, and inspire prospective members to join the Giving Circle. By demonstrating how the grant enabled the women’s team to purchase a new boat, the video connects donors to the real-world impact of their generosity.

The video highlights the unique challenges of a self-funded rowing club, including the team’s outdated equipment, and ends with the transformational impact of the new boat. Through a mix of interviews, visuals of the team in action, and a gratitude-filled conclusion, the video conveys both the team’s needs and their appreciation.

The video proved to be a powerful donor engagement tool, reinforcing the importance of grants and fundraising efforts. It positions the Miami University Rowing Club as a hardworking, dedicated team striving to compete at a high level despite financial constraints. The immediate impact of the grant—a new, technologically advanced boat—enhances the team’s competitiveness and boosts morale. The gratitude expressed strengthens donor relations, encouraging continued and future support.