Read Part 1 here, then come back to learn the final benefit auction ideas you can use to incorporate kids into your gala (even if they aren't physically present.) This post covers two strategies: 3. Let a Powerpoint slide tell the story In a ballroom, Powerpoint slides can provide imagery. At this gala raising money for heart-related causes, a child's photo was displayed with the text, "Nora Grace's heart was mended by Dr. Bill Hammill, and she hasn't stopped dancing since." Plus side: ... Read On >
school auction
Using kids to raise cash at your gala, even when they aren’t attending – Part 1
Over the last few months, I've offered benefit auction ideas on managing your gala in a bad economy. You can use all kinds of techniques to ensure your revenues remain strong in a recession, but one solid strategy of raising money - regardless of economic winds - is to show guests how their donation impacts others. In this case, children. Children (and animals, to a large degree) seem to have universal appeal which you can tap into. Many organizations benefit kids in one way, shape, or ... Read On >
Non-floral school auction centerpieces at “Night at the Museum”
Many of the galas I work use a floral centerpiece on the table. I certainly enjoy the freshness flowers bring to an event, but I've also seen some interesting non-floral options, especially when it comes to school auction centerpieces, as the one in this photo. Why do nonprofits opt for a non-floral arrangement? 1. Lower event expenses. As attractive as they are, flowers can be expensive. They become a "nice to have," not a "need to have," so they can be quickly cut from a ... Read On >
How to Successfully Sell a Puppy in Your Auction Fundraiser
I love dogs and I live in one of the United States' friendliest dog towns (Alexandria, VA). There are lots of dog lovers in this part of the world, and I usually sell one or two donated puppies each year as part of a live auction fundraiser. Selling a puppy in a live auction is certainly memorable and profitable. Here in Washington, D.C., the puppy can bring $2000 to $5000 per sale. Most bidders respond to the animal positively and are eager to pet the little guy while inquiring about its age, ... Read On >
Part 2: Ah HA! About those outlandish auction ideas? I’ve got photos.
Not so long ago (like two weeks ago) I blogged about how dressing up to promote your charity auction could rank as one of those top concepts ... especially when it comes to school auction ideas. Now, I have proof. That's right. I have honest-to-goodness photographs proving that some of my fabulous school auction clients are doing just that. They are having fun, hamming it up, promoting their school auction ... by dressing up. Voici. Take a look at these shots. Here's someone clearly in a ... Read On >