We’ve all known people and families suddenly stricken with misfortune: a terminal diagnosis, a debilitating accident or a natural catastrophe. Because it’s human nature to want to help, there may come a time when you find yourself trying to organize a private benefit or fundraiser. And, if you’re like most of us, you’re doing it with very limited fundraising experience. However, there are some tried and true ways to generate interest, raise money and hopefully have some fun along the way.
Throw a Party!
Everybody enjoys a good party, although they do take planning, so look to outsource. Venues like University Park Golf Club make it easy, with planning staff and on-site catering. Don’t just invite friends – open it up to the rest of the community. You’ll be surprised how many people want to have some fun and support a good cause.
When pricing your event, consider whether you want to simply cover costs with the entry fee, keeping the price low to increase attendance. Then, you’d try to raise the bulk of the money during the event. The other way to do it is to charge more for admission, with a portion going to the cause.
There are benefits to each approach, although keep in mind that a larger crowd can really lift the spirits of the guest of honor, demonstrating the volume of support through the sheer size of the turnout.
Include a Silent Auction
One sure way to increase your fundraising is to include a silent auction. People and businesses are often willing to lend a hand to help within the community, and a silent auction can actually add to the atmosphere of your event. Well-displayed items help fill the entry area, and give people something extra to do at the beginning of the benefit.
If less expensive items are donated, consider combining them into themed baskets.
Games and Tournaments
Get your guests to pay to participate in games with a chance to win prizes.
One common idea is a board game tournament. Enlist teams of four people, each charged an entry fee for donations, to play a common game that most would be familiar with — like cards or Monopoly.
“A-thon” events
Another way to raise money is an “a-thon.” You know the type: any event that ends in “a-thon.” There’s walk, bike, swim, flip, etc. All great options to raise some money for great causes. For example, bike-a-thons and walk-a-thons are pretty similar; participants are either walking or biking. They’ll walk/bike a planned course and prior to the event, commit to raising money for the cause. They can collect pledges per mile, or ask for a set donation.
Golf fundraisers
Golf events are very popular, because they are a great to have some fun while also raising funds. Ask for local sponsors to help out with donations or perhaps sponsoring certain golf holes or greens. Scrambles are the most popular form of charity golf event, here are a few other ideas: golf tournament contests, like longest drive, closest to the pin, etc.; a charity auction at the golf course; selling golf merchandise; a golf tournament combined with a dinner banquet afterward.
Happy Planning,
Sharon Patrice
Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.
