 |
|
|
Step By Step Fundraising NewsletterApril 2008
- Recent Survey Prize Giveaway Winners
In the past few years I've gotten suckered into more than one internet April Fool's prank. But rest assured there are no jokes in this newsletter. In fact I'd like to help non-profits avoid falling into foolish fundraising traps. Taking inspiration from the April Fools holiday and the Discovery channel show of the same name, this month we're featuring a series of articles called "Mythbusters." There are many myths and misconceptions about fundraising. Today I'm starting the series with a myth surrounding special events. Read on to find out more...
Fundraising Myth: If You Build It They Will Comeby Sandra Sims
The famous line from the movie Field of Dreams “if you build it, they will come” unfortunately doesn't always work in real life. If you plan a fundraising event and even advertise heavily, that does not mean that attendees will show up. Often when considering a type of event or event theme, planners will immediately jump to the obvious choices such as a golf tournament or dinner. But what if there are no avid golfers in your list of current supporters? What if you plan a black tie gala only to realize that your audience is more of the BBQ and bluejeans crowd? On the other end of the scale, there are groups that they really want to do something different. Offering a unique event is a great way to get publicity, stir interest in your cause, and yes, raise funds. However if you hear of a "new idea," remember that carbon copying it to your group may not work. It may be "too out there" for your community and just because you've planned something different won't necessarily translate into event attendance. Always match the type of event to your audience. Consider the mission of your organization and try to plan a fundraiser that somehow highlights your cause, not just something that raises money. Talk to your volunteers, current donors, board members and other stakeholders. Ask for their opinions about what type of event they'd enjoy attending. Take note of their level of excitement. If people really jump on board with an idea that could be a good sign that it would be successful. Continue to survey for feedback during the planning process. Doing so will help ensure that you avoid potential pitfalls such as scheduling on the same day as another big community event. To summarize, when planning a special event if you "build it" with your audience in mind and based on sound fundraising principles, people will more more like to come out and lend their support. Post a comment about this article
Continuing the Mythbusters Each Thursday in AprilEach Thursday for the rest of April we'll continue the series on fundraising myths. There are several great experts lined up, addressing topics such as volunteers, advertising, and grants, just to name a few. If you're not already on our notification list (RSS feed), here's how to sign up. You can use one of the following services or go with email. You'll get a notification each day that new articles are posted to the site:
Survey Winners
See the drawing on this short video Of course even though the survey has ended, if you have questions you are always welcome to contact us. Charity Mile members may also make use of the forum.
To Your Continued Fundraising Success,
|
|
Big
events and celebrity galas that make the news may leave the impression
that special events are the best way to raise money for charity.
While event fundraisers can be quite successful, it's important
to have realistic expectations.
Last
month Step by Step Fundraising and Charity Mile sponsored a survey
to find out what your fundraising questions and needs are. On Monday
I created a screen capture video of the random drawing. Everyone
who completed the recent survey (which ended last Friday) was eligible
to win. 10 ebooks were given away plus one lucky person got a $100
donation to charity. 
