Step By Step Fundraising Newsletter
February 2008
In this issue -
- 5 Tips for Choosing a Special Event
- 7 Fundraising Event Ideas
Perhaps you're looking for a fun, new event that will raise funds
for your group and really catch on with your audience. Read on for
tips and ideas to make your fundraising event a success...
5 Tips for Choosing a Special Event
by Sandra Sims
"Walk
a mile in my shoes" took on a whole new meaning at an unusual charity
walk fundraiser last spring. The event challenged several hundred
men to walk in women's high heel shoes for one mile around a track.
Proceeds went to three Milwaukee area organizations that provide
domestic violence and sexual assault prevention programs.
This event illustrates several great fundraising strategies:
1. Be creative. Do something different and your event will
stand out from the crowd. Something unusual will be more likely
to get attention and publicity. Naturally, hundreds of men walking
around in stilettos attracted some media
attention.
2. Match the event to the mission. These organizations that
primarily serve women chose an appealing theme complimentary to
their cause. With the role reversal it highlighted the fact that
abuse is an issue that's just as important to men as it is to women.
3. Match the event with your audience. What type of event
would your supporters find most appealing? It's important to choose
something that your members will enjoy.
4. Partner with other organizations. In the Milwaukee event
three groups joined forces to raise awareness and funds. They were
able to distribute the work load and have a greater impact by working
together.
5. Consider a long term approach. How does the event fit
into your fundraising plans for the rest of the year? Is it an event
that can be repeated, an annual
event that can grow each year? The first Walk
a Mile event was so successful that the next one is coming up
on May 4th.
7 Fundraising Event Ideas
Going along with our special events theme this month, I thought
I'd highlight some event ideas from our archives. One of these events
might be great for your organization. Or at the least, you might
find a strategy or tip in one of these articles to help in whatever
event you do.
Celebrity
Go-Kart Challenge - This is a fun event that would be good for
a variety of groups.
Belgian
Waffle Fundraiser - Pancakes are passé. Serve fancy waffles
at your breakfast fundraiser instead.
Auctions
- Auctions can be added on to a variety of other special events.
Volleyball
Tournament - Sports tournaments can be a fun way to raise funds
and build community spirit.
Used
Book Sales - A book sale is a great match for a library, school
or literacy council.
Burrito
Bingo - Another dinner fundraiser with a twist.
Dance
Marathons - Great for organizations with a young, high energy
group of supporters.
To Your Continued Fundraising Success,
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