Wondering how to get celebrities to your party? Occasionally I’ll have a conversation with a non-profit attempting to build awareness of their gala. They want to invite a well-recognized actor or musician to the event. The charity’s goal is multifaceted. The presence of a star could draw others to attend their gala The star himself might donate to the auction, thereby raising funds in a more direct way. The close passing of both Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson - both active in ... Read On >
Procurement
Benefit auction items: How to procure TV passes
One of the most popular types of benefit auction items I sell are those having to do with the entertainment industry, such as “behind the scenes” activities for television shows. When a show donates a "behind-the-scenes experience," it usually means that the winning bidder will get to watch a show being taped and perhaps a tour of the facility. For someone who hasn’t worked in the television industry, a taping can be exciting to watch. Here are some tips on securing these sought-after ... Read On >
Benefit auction item: Procuring walk-on movie and TV roles
An auction volunteer from Minnesota recently wrote, "How do you even get some of these items. I'm just frustrated in over my head." Yikes! I want you to be inspired, not frustrated. If I've got tips on how to secure a benefit auction item, I'll share it. One of the more popular items I sell are those related to the entertainment industry. A walk-on part usually refers to the opportunity for someone to be part of the background of a movie or a commercial. This isn’t a speaking role, but it's ... Read On >
Benefit Auction Ideas: Four ways to sell farm-to-table donations
Whether you're a true gourmand or simply a gal who enjoys a good meal, your guests will love these four benefit auction ideas incorporating a farm-to-table dining experience. Earlier this month while on the train traveling back from New York to Washington, D.C., I read Amtrak's magazine Arrive. One article covered the farm-to-table movement and listed several restaurants known for their work in this area. What is the farm-to-table movement? In essence, it's about sourcing ingredients ... Read On >
Research-related excursions as charity auction item ideas
Last week I participated on a webinar in which we talked about charity auction item ideas and how to strategically procure them. Since then, I've had procurement on my mind! One of the participants worked for an Alzheimer's-related non-profit. She asked for suggestions on items to sell which might bring awareness to her mission, and still be of interest to her audience. Off-the-cuff, I suggested she might want to offer an item that tied to the research of Alzheimer's. Someone might be ... Read On >