Raise the Bar Ohio

Join us for a special OSBF challenge to elevate the case for justice and inspire giving in the communities we serve.

We’re calling on you to participate in the Ohio State Bar Foundation’s Raise the Bar Ohio campaign kicking off November 1st.

Formerly a friendly competition among Fellows, Raise the Bar Ohio is a chance for all Fellows to join forces in the fight for a better justice system. By taking our mission to the neighborhoods and districts where we live and work, this event provides a unique opportunity to broaden the OSBF’s reach and generate more public support for the important work we do.  

Build a team, name a captain, and take action! Teams must be registered no later than Friday, November 18 to be eligible for awards or prizes.

This year's registered teams so far:

• Aunt Velda’s Advocates - Velda Hofacker, Team Captain
• Not So Grumpy YOUNG Men - Reg Jackson and Bill Weisenberg, Team Captains
• Team Boaty McBoatface - Lori Keating and Marley Nelson, Team Captains

When we work together, hope for justice prevails. We honor your commitment to upholding the values and vision of OSBF and with your help, we can broaden our reach and impact.

team toolkit

For Team Captains and Teammates, click on the links below for sample letters which you may cut and paste into an email when inviting friends to give and when thanking friends for donations. 

• Invitation to Give Sample Letter
• Thank You Sample Letter

HOW IT WORKS:

• Build Your Team. Collaborate with other Fellows to form a team. Teams of all sizes are welcome. Prefer to represent yourself? Parties of one are welcome too!

• Name a Team Captain. The Team Captain serves as the primary contact throughout the campaign and is responsible for communicating event updates and news to their team members. Choose your team name or the last name of the Team Captain will be the Team Name.

• Register Your Team. Once named, the Team Captain must register each team member. Teams must be registered no later than Friday, November 18 to be eligible for awards or prizes. Click here to Register Your Team. 

• Review Spheres of Influence. Strategize with your Team. Develop lists of those you interact with regularly. Employers, friends, neighbors, classmates, businesses, associations and clubs in which you are active are good starting points. Check to see if your workplace has a matching gifts program. If you’re unable to meet in person, call or connect through emails and social media. Tell your OSBF story. Sharing your “Why” with those you know is powerful, especially if justice is a cause that also resonates with them.

• Solicit Donations. Direct donors to the donation page and have them specify the team they want their donation to count towards. Click here for the donation page. 

• Have Fun. Motivate each other. Challenge other teams. Participate in OSBF's challenges which will be issued throughout the campaign. Celebrate successes. And remember, raising awareness of OSBF is the first step in growing our base of support!

• The Ohio State Bar Foundation’s inaugural Raise the Bar campaign ended on November 30th, 2022 and brought in a total of $31,000! Congratulations to 2021 winners:

  • Most $ Raised Trophy Winner – Team Berg 
  • Most New Donors – Aunt Velda’s Advocates 
  • Team Member Securing Largest Gift – Lori Keating - Team Boaty McBoatface

Click here to register

make a donation

WITH YOUR SUPPORT, WE Will raise THE BAR!

RAISE THE BAR OHIO FAQ

What is Raise the Bar Ohio?

Raise the Bar Ohio is an opportunity for OSBF Fellows to come together and connect with their communities while raising awareness and support for a better justice system.

When will the event take place?

Raise the Bar Ohio kicks off November 1 and ends at close of business on November 30.

Why should I get involved?

Quite simply, there is strength in numbers. Creating a justice system not defined by color, age, disability, economic status, where we live, who we love or how we vote takes all of us.  As a Fellow, we honor your commitment to upholding the values and vision of OSBF and with your help, we can broaden our reach and impact.

Why should I make a donation?

Your gift, in any amount, helps drive our mission. Every dollar OSBF grants to programs and organizations aligning with our work, brings us closer to a justice system that works for everyone and a public that is more informed in the rule of law. To date, OSBF has granted $14 million to dozens of grantees whose tireless work in their communities has been transformational. But our work must continue.

How will my donation be used?

Unless otherwise indicated, 100% of donations raised during the Raise the Bar event will be used for grant making purposes.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes, your gift is tax deductible.

Can my donation be applied to my Fellows pledge?

Yes.

Raise the Bar Team Awards and Recognition

• Most Money Raised: The Team who collectively raises the most money during the campaign period will win top honors as the Prevailing Party and earn the following:
  • The Raise the Bar Ohio Silver Cup. The Silver Cup will travel to a location designated by the winning team, where it can be admired until the following year. Etched with the scales of justice, the perpetual trophy will be engraved with the team name and event year.
  • Individual Awards. Each team member will receive a commemorative recognition item.
  • Publicity. Your team will be highlighted on the OSBF website, social media and all other publicity related to the event.
  • Bragging Rights. For the next year, you’ve earned it. Use it to your advantage!
• Most New Donors: The Team who collectively welcomes the most new donors (defined as individuals who have never made a donation to OSBF) will earn the following:
  • Raise the Bar Plaque. The plaque will bear the team name and event year. The plaque will be displayed in the OSBF headquarters office.
  • Personalized Certificate. Each team member will receive a certificate of appreciation.
  • Publicity. Your team will be highlighted on the OSBF website and social media.
• Individual Awards and Incentives
  • Largest Inidividual Gift: The team member who secures the largest individual donation during the campaign period will be recognized with an engraved plaque and social media mention following the event. And yes, your own contribution could earn you that honor.
  • New Donor Drawing: New donors from all participating teams will be eligible for a special prize drawing when the campaign has ended. Stay tuned for more information.

For More Information, Contact:

Sheila Buckley, Development Director at [email protected] or 614.487.4477 (office) or 740.591.4222 (cell).