Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Altadena Library Foundation Enlists Expert to Boost Fundraising Efforts

[Photo credit: Altadena Library Foundation]

The Altadena Library Foundation will enhance its fundraising capabilities by collaborating with John O’Malley, a renowned fund development expert, according to Jericho Road Pasadena.

 O’Malley, principal of Pasadena-based O’Malley International Associates, was introduced to the Foundation through Jericho Road.

Jericho Road Pasadena is a nonprofit that matches the professional talents and expertise of volunteers with the needs of community-based nonprofit organizations in the Pasadena area.

Mark Mariscal, Altadena Library Foundation Board President, sought assistance in identifying potential private and corporate foundations to support the library’s work. O’Malley responded by creating a detail-rich Excel chart of local area foundations, rated by their potential to support the library, according to Jericho Road.

“John’s list and letter templates gave us a first-round direction on making contact with businesses and organizations that might be interested in offering financial assistance to the ALF,” Mariscal told Jericho Road. He added that their goal is to make at least $40,000 in asks and realize $10,000 in support.

O’Malley’s contributions extended beyond the foundation list. He compiled potential corporate grant makers and sponsors, and drafted two template letters for seeking operating and program support grants, providing the foundation with valuable guides for future outreach Jericho Road said.

The consultant expressed confidence in the collaboration’s potential impact. 

“The short-term result of getting new and updated information on local grant makers will enhance their fundraising efforts,” O’Malley is quoted by Jericho Road as saying. He anticipates longer-term benefits, including “not only additional revenues for the foundation’s operations and programs, but stronger connections to the entire local philanthropic community.”

O’Malley said he enjoyed working with the Foundation’s leadership team and appreciated Jericho Road Pasadena’s consistent follow-up and communication.

The Altadena Library Foundation, established in 2009, supports the independent Altadena Library District through fundraising and advocacy. The District operates two facilities: the mid-century modern Altadena Main Library, designed by famed architect Boyd Georgi and built in 1967, and the Bob Lucas Memorial Branch Library and Literacy Center. 

The Branch Library, dedicated in 1957, closed after Proposition 13 was passed in 1978, limiting property tax revenues, but reopened in 1991.

For 2024, the foundation’s fundraising efforts are focused on supporting the District’s Curiosity Connection mobile library operations, constructing Little Free Libraries in underserved areas, and promoting community-wide engagement in local arts and culture. Additionally, construction on the Bob Lucas Library has begun this year.