Funding and Sustainability Pt 1 of 2

Family Justice Center Funding and Sustainability Strategies (Part 1 of 2)

This comprehensive guide, led by Casey Gwinn, J.D. and Gael Strack, J.D. of the Family Justice Center Alliance, outlines practical strategies and proven models to fund, sustain, and grow Family Justice Centers (FJCs) across the U.S.

Key Focus Areas for FJC Sustainability

• Strategic Planning & Budgeting
  Develop a dynamic Funding and Sustainability Plan aligned with evolving needs and resources.

• Diverse Funding Streams
  Leverage federal, state, and local government grants, foundations, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and special events (e.g., Voices Ending Violence Breakfast, Un-Masquerade Gala).

• Board Development & Leadership
  Recruit business and community leaders committed to fundraising, governance, and public advocacy.

• Government Integration
  Advocate for long-term city, county, and state investment, align with public policies, and explore legislative support.

• Public Awareness & Engagement
  Build visibility through websites, social media, media coverage, survivor stories, and community outreach.

• Regional & Statewide Leadership
  Position your FJC as a model site and develop partnerships to support expansion in other regions.

Fundraising Models and Tactics

• Follow the Benevon fundraising model:

  1. Engage with community through tours and events

  2. Cultivate relationships with donors and partners

  3. Use storytelling and data to inspire giving

  4. Ask for donations face-to-face or via impactful events

• Hire professional fundraisers, build donor lists, and run targeted events like golf tournaments, motorcycle rides, and panel discussions.

• Create a dedicated 501(c)(3) foundation to support the FJC's fundraising goals and ensure financial sustainability.

Resource Planning Tools

• Business plans addressing:

  • Needs and service gaps

  • Community assessments

  • Cost analysis

  • Solutions and expected outcomes

• Sample templates:

  • Feasibility studies

  • Funding and sustainability plans

  • Evaluation tools

  • Messaging guides

Lessons Learned

• Relationship-building is essential.
  Donors, volunteers, and board members respond to authentic, mission-driven engagement.

• Grant writers matter.
  Partner with experts who understand both domestic violence services and federal funding systems.

• Always say “thank you.”
  Show public appreciation creatively and consistently.

• Plan for the long term.
  Treat sustainability like a living document and adapt to changing environments.

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