Leading Through Uncertainty: Andy White Speaks on Fundraising Innovation

This week, our Executive Director, Andy White, was invited to speak at an event hosted by the Oregon Startup Center, bringing together business owners and nonprofit leaders to discuss navigating fundraising in uncertain times.

With budget cuts and shifting priorities creating new pressures for organizations across the region, Andy shared how Elite Sports Academy (ESA) has leaned into innovation rather than retreating. His focus was on ESA’s Go to Camp, Give a Camp initiative — a unique model where every paid camp registration funds a free camp spot for a child who otherwise wouldn’t have access.

This approach not only extends ESA’s impact in the community, but also creates a new and reliable stream of revenue that helps offset today’s funding challenges. Instead of cutting back, ESA is building forward — ensuring more kids can play, learn, and thrive, no matter their family’s financial circumstances.

Andy’s message was clear: in times of uncertainty, sustainability comes from creativity, collaboration, and staying rooted in mission. ESA’s Go to Camp, Give a Camp is proof that with the right model, we can turn challenges into opportunities to serve even more children.