World War I Centennial Commission

BACKGROUND

Established by an act of the 112th Congress and signed by President Obama in 2013, the United States World War I Centennial Commission was created to lead commemorative programs across the country in recognition of the 100-year anniversary of America’s involvement in the First World War.  In 2016, Changing Our World partnered with the Commission to provide counsel in the implementation of a $50 million public-private fundraising campaign to support the design and construction of the first-ever National World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C.

CHALLENGE

The project presented unique challenges as there are no living veterans to advocate for the building of a national memorial.  As a result, securing public interest and private support required extensive research, analysis, and creative strategies to engage prospective funders.

SOLUTION

Since fundraising efforts began, Changing Our World has developed and executed highly tailored, data-driven outreach strategies to engage more than 400 prospective individuals and organizations.  Working in close collaboration with the Commission’s leadership and advisory boards led by former flag-rank military officers, diplomats, and business executives, Changing Our World has assisted the Commission in securing six and seven-figure commitments from leading individuals, foundations, corporations, service organizations, and foreign embassies.  Thanks to the support that has been secured to date, construction of the Memorial is now underway.

“The success of the campaign for the National World War I Memorial would not have been possible without Changing Our World’s exquisite support.  Despite the unique challenges we faced, their close collaboration with the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission made the endeavor seamless.  It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work with them on such an important project to honor our veterans.”

Admiral Mike Mullen, USN (ret.), Special Advisor to the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission,17th Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff