The Organization

Woodstock Food Pantry is dedicated to ensuring neighbors have reliable access to nutritious food. Serving a growing population in McHenry County, the Pantry plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity while preserving dignity, choice, and community connection for the individuals and families it serves.

The Challenge

As demand for services increased, Woodstock Food Pantry reached the limits of its existing facility. The organization needed to acquire a larger building to expand storage, refrigeration, and distribution capacity, but had never undertaken a capital campaign or secured a six-figure gift.

Leadership faced several key questions:

• Is a volunteer-led organization ready to pursue a capital campaign of this scale?

• How can the case for a new building inspire major donor investment?

• Who are the right lead prospects, and how should they be engaged?

• How can the board step confidently into fundraising roles?

Without additional space, the Pantry risked turning away donated food and limiting its ability to meet community needs.

The Approach

True North partnered with Woodstock Food Pantry through a focused campaign readiness and major gifts engagement that included:

• Campaign readiness assessment and leadership alignment

• Clarification of the case for support tied to community impact and long-term stability

• Identification, qualification, and prioritization of major gift prospects

• Coaching for volunteer leaders and board members in donor conversations and solicitations

• Early campaign strategy designed to build confidence and momentum before a broader launch

The work emphasized preparation, clarity, and relationship-centered strategy—ensuring leadership moved forward with intention rather than urgency.

The Results

Woodstock Food Pantry secured its first six-figure gift—a $450,000 lead commitment—enabling the purchase of a new building and catalyzing broader campaign momentum. To date, the volunteer-led campaign has raised $1 million toward the project, with traction to finish ahead of schedule. 

Beyond dollars raised, the organization gained:

• Increased confidence among volunteer leaders and board members

• Clearer alignment around campaign goals and donor strategy

• Stronger donor relationships rooted in shared values and trust

• A realistic, achievable roadmap for completing a successful capital campaign

The Pantry moved forward both prepared and positioned to expand its impact and serve the community for years to come.