ESO fundraising campaign exceeds expectations

A better-than-expected fundraising campaign has the Elgin Symphony Orchestra on “stable” financial footing to start the new year.

The organization held a six-week “Stocking Stuffer Challenge” in November and December in hopes of raising $100,000 from the community to be matched by the board of directors.

By the end of the campaign, the ESO had raised $107,145 — donations the 19-member board will match completely.

Cheryl Wendt, the ESO development officer, said subscription sales for next season will start in February, which means the campaign fell in the middle of the orchestra’s operating season.

“To have this kind of excitement before we even kick off the new season is just phenomenal,” Wendt said.

Several donors gave to the ESO for the first time during the fundraising effort, while others donated again after a years-long hiatus. Wendt said the monetary support by the ESO musicians and staff also exceeded expectations.

“With all the changes here in the last year or so, I think it’s really nice to see the positive synergy going on,” Wendt said.

Jerry Cain, ESO board chairman and president of Judson University, said every member of the board of directors gives at least $5,000 each year. The group decided to go beyond that this year and ask the community to match their personal contributions.

Cain said the successful fundraising has given the organization strength to launch the new season.

“We’re moving in the right direction and are stable,” Cain said. “But we’re not yet secure.”

The ESO has eight concerts left in its current season with tickets available online at elginsymphony.org.