A cash appeal (also called a fund a need, mission moment, and other names) can be an easy way to raise dollars at most fundraising auctions. But there is a process to follow. To get started, use these seven fund a need ideas to ensure you cover the basics of this lucrative gala element. Watch the video below. And now that you've got "the basics" down, what about the rest? Like examples of great videos that have been used as introductions prior to the Fund a Need ... sample ... Read On >
Revenue Generators
VIDEO: A dirty secret about growing your benefit auction
Here's a little known fact. When you add raffles, games, and other cool benefit auction ideas into a gala to make it more profitable, there's a good chance you'll also have to buy software. Activities add complexity. And without software, you'll create a "one hit wonder" event. Learn more in the video below. ... Read On >
Using auction games to motivate volunteers
Got problems getting auction volunteers energized to do what is needed to be done? Here’s one tip: Give volunteers something new and creative to learn which also solves a problem your auction is experiencing. Volunteers will remain engaged if they believe the solution you are sharing is 1) fun and 2) will solve the problem. When it’s fun to solve the problem, volunteers will do it. I’ve written before about Volkswagen’s “The Fun Theory” project. The group conducted tests to see if they ... Read On >
How auction games will get you publicity
I refer to auction games, raffles, and activities as the “bells and whistles” of benefit auctions. It's an understatement to call them revenue generators as they do more than make you money. These are the fun add-ons designed to address specific problems, involve the crowd, trigger fun, attract press, and (yes) make you money. Today’s post addresses the “attract press” piece. Many groups seem decent at securing post-gala publicity, but it's the pre-event recognition that will help you ... Read On >
Making your gala fun with auction games
I’ve said it, and I’ve heard others say it: Charity auctions should emphasize the mission of the nonprofit. Maybe part of the program is devoted to telling the nonprofit’s story. Maybe every live or silent auction item sold has a tie to the mission. Maybe the benefit auctioneer inserts one-liners like, “Remember, .90 cents of every dollar you donate feeds the homeless.” I agree with a mission-focus. But galas also need to be fun. It's rewarding to hear about improved health ... Read On >