Case Study
Text marketing at WaterStep
means social impact
WaterStep amplified supporter engagement and fundraising efficiency by integrating Textmunication with Blackbaud's Raiser's Edge NXT.
Organization
WaterStep
Industry
Nonprofit & Social Impact
Featured leader
Jen Carver, VP Mission Advancement
The Driving Force
We met with Jen Carver, VP Mission Advancement at WaterStep to learn more about how she is leading their social impact by entering the text message inbox.
WaterStep's Story
WaterStep operates under the conviction that access to safe water is a fundamental human right. Despite technological advancements, a staggering 2.2 billion individuals globally still lack this essential resource. WaterStep aims to bridge this gap, fostering a collective effort among the 6 billion people with safe water to support the 2.2 billion without. The organization envisions this unified action as a landmark success story in history.
Located in Louisville, Kentucky, WaterStep is celebrating its 30th year of providing safe and sustainable water solutions worldwide. Uniquely positioned as the only water organization with patented, EPA-endorsed technology developed by their team of engineers, WaterStep delivers impactful solutions like the WOWcart, a mini water treatment system capable of producing 10,000 gallons of safe water daily for communities in need, as demonstrated in Asheville, North Carolina, after Hurricane Hellene.
Supported by a lean team of 17 full-time employees and a dedicated force of 45 volunteers, including engineers, doctors, and attorneys, WaterStep embodies a powerful blend of innovation and compassion.
The challenge: connecting and engaging for impact
For WaterStep, effectively reaching and engaging their community was paramount to expanding their supporter base and amplifying their fundraising efforts. Traditional methods like email and phone calls, while valuable, presented limitations in consistently communicating key events, urgent announcements, and diverse opportunities for supporter involvement, including donations.
They needed a more immediate, cost-effective channel that could integrate seamlessly with Blackbaud Raiser's Edge NXT to streamline outreach, strengthen relationships, and nurture deeper connections with their audience.
The solution: Textmunication + Blackbaud integration
WaterStep discovered Textmunication's robust text marketing platform and its seamless integration with their social good CRM, Blackbaud's Raiser's Edge NXT. This integration proved to be a game-changer, enabling WaterStep to directly connect with their community through timely and engaging text messages. Recognizing the cost-effectiveness of text messaging for outreach, WaterStep leveraged Textmunication to build a stronger supporter base, deliver prompt thank-you messages, and communicate crucial events and announcements regarding involvement and donation opportunities.
"Texting is by far the best outlets we have..."
Implementation and the “Drop of Hope” campaign
Under the guidance of Jen, who leads marketing and development at WaterStep, text marketing evolved from a marketing awareness initiative into the organization's primary outreach method. WaterStep strategically utilized MMS messaging, particularly for their impactful "Drop of Hope" campaign. This weekly text message sent to a dedicated group of supporters includes a compelling photo illustrating the tangible impact of their contributions, fostering a deeper sense of connection and demonstrating their vital role in a larger mission. WaterStep's commitment to transparency and impact is evident in their consistent use of visual storytelling through MMS.
Results and Impact
By integrating Textmunication with Blackbaud's Raiser's Edge NXT, WaterStep experienced significant improvements in supporter engagement and fundraising efficiency. The immediacy and personal nature of text messaging allowed for more consistent communication, leading to a strengthened sense of community among supporters. The "Drop of Hope" campaign, with its visual representation of impact, fostered a deeper understanding of WaterStep's work and likely contributed to increased donor engagement and retention. While specific quantifiable results would further strengthen this section, the shift towards text messaging as a primary outreach source underscores its effectiveness in achieving WaterStep's goals of building a strong supporter base and driving social impact.
Engagement
More consistent, high-visibility communication with core supporters.
Fundraising
Streamlined donor outreach across campaigns, events, and urgent appeals.
Community
Stronger sense of shared mission through transparent, impact-driven updates.
Looking ahead: scaling impact with text marketing
WaterStep remains committed to leveraging innovative communication strategies, including text marketing, to further its mission of bringing safe water to the 2.2 billion people who lack it. The success of their integration with Textmunication and Blackbaud's Raiser's Edge NXT provides a scalable model for continued growth in supporter engagement and fundraising. As WaterStep continues to expand its global reach and impact with its unique, patented technology and dedicated team, text marketing will undoubtedly remain a vital tool in their efforts to create a world where safe water is a reality for all. Their sponsorship of an all-women's soccer team further exemplifies their commitment to community engagement and their vision for a better future.