Galapagos Conservancy
Challenge. The Galapagos Conservancy (formerly the Charles Darwin Foundation, Inc.), an international conservation steward for the Galapagos Islands, was seeking a strategy for reaching more than 60,000 annual Galapagos visitors and converting them into life-long Conservancy supporters.
Avalon's Solution. Avalon introduced an acquisition program consisting of two mail efforts followed by a telemarketing effort. Visitors were eager to talk about their trip to Galapagos — which made the phone an excellent interactive outreach medium. We also tested three package concepts to establish an effective acquisition control. To retain members, Avalon used education-focused packages to raise awareness of critical current issues affecting Galapagos and introduced a rolling renewal program. We also designed a high-dollar Galapagos Ambassador Program as a vehicle for upgrading members.
Results. In the first two years of Avalon's involvement the Conservancy saw gross member revenues more than double, with only a relatively small increase in its cost of fundraising.
It is rare to find an organization that understands your style, your message, and the value placed on authentic dialogue. Avalon is committed to and has succeeded in, creating lasting and meaningful relationships with our donors.
— Johannah Barry, President of the Galapagos Conservancy