MS Society extends work with Epsilon
By Lauren Bell
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has signed a five-year renewal contract with longtime database marketing services provider Epsilon.
Epsilon will work with the society’s national headquarters, as well its 54 chapter offices across the country, to increase retention and loyalty among MS Society constituents. The agency’s proprietary database platform captures and houses constituent information obtained through the society’s Web site, event registrations, information requests and other sources. It also tracks direct mail campaign responses.
“Our strategy in managing relationships with constituents is opening up the movement to help them join in any way they choose, and that’s largely the purpose of the database,” explained Julie Butcher, EVP of information technology, National Multiple Sclerosis Society. “We’re constantly moving forward, and right now we’re working on deeper integration of Epsilon with other tools, as well as more focus on volunteer engagement and tools to support volunteer engagement.”
Epsilon has held a contract with the society since 1985. The national society depends on direct mail, its national Web site and the efforts of local chapters to communicate with constituents. It also uses e-mail marketing services from Convio. The society’s biggest marketing push is around MS Awareness Week, which is the first week of March. The society has set a goal of raising $1.25 billion by the end of 2010.
