theFUND: San Antonio's United Arts Fund enters into new territory as 2009 Campaign kicks off in cyberspace

Always seeking different ways to reach new supporters, theFund: San Antonio’s United Arts Fund is taking its 2009 campaign into cyberspace. theFund is using Social Media to capture the attention of San Antonio’s business community and communicate directly to business owners and employees through Facebook.

“It’s a great new way to reach out directly to potential donors,” said Rod Rubbo, president of theFund. “Social media is an affordable way to reach a diverse audience, especially when there are limited dollars for traditional advertising; more importantly, it’s a great way to engage like-minded individuals in conversation about San Antonio’s art and cultural industry.”

This new approach to grassroots outreach reflects the changing economic climate. Instead of spending dollars on large advertisement campaigns, non-profits are now turning to current supporters to spread the word through online connections. Updates posted to theFund’s Group reflect this push for supporters to carry theFund’s unique giving opportunity back to their employers. Discussion boards and recent news posts ask for ideas on who to talk to and where to make contact with decision makers at local businesses.

To date, theFund has raised approximately $465,000 pledged through employee contributions, corporate and foundation grants. Since the launch of theFund, now five years ago, the number of businesses implementing work place giving campaigns has increased from 10 to 62. In all, 92 businesses have supported theFund with some form of giving, including monetary grants. There are now a total of 28 affiliates, arts and cultural organizations who receive funding from theFund.

About theFund
The cornerstone of theFund is workplace giving campaigns, loosely modeled after the United Way form of fundraising. theFund draws the business and cultural communities together to create a broader support base for arts and culture.

As an incentive to give, donors of theFund who contribute more than $60 per year receive theFUNd Card. The card gives donors and their families, discounts on admissions and purchases at the 28 arts and cultural affiliate organizations. To date more than 800 donors have become FUNd Card recipients. All donations are tax-deductible. Individuals can also donate directly and securely through theFund’s Web site at www.theFundSA.org or call 210-212-8303.