1. Choose your adventure. Using the information outlined in this story, decide what type of event is best
for you, based on your resources, time frame, and fund-raising goals.
2. Draw up a plan. After you’ve decided
on a date, “start by figuring out all the things that need to happen, then make a time line,” suggests author Stephanie Roth. (Use the
Charity Fund-Raiser Worksheet to record and track the details.)
3. Reserve a location. For small-scale events, the venue could be your home or that of a friend. For larger ones, consider using a community center or a school auditorium. Before offering money for a location rental, however, always ask if the establishment would be willing to
let you use the space for free in support of your efforts.
4. Recruit help. Gather a core group of dedicated volunteers
to assist you. In terms of size, “the more the merrier,” says Wendy Lacey, committee cochair for the Link Community School’s annual “A Taste of Newark” benefit and auction, in Newark,
New Jersey. “The more people you’ve got, the more contacts and resources you’ll have for things like sponsorships and ticket sales.” To recruit additional volunteers, turn to friends and family members and to local organizations like
the Rotary Club and
the Junior League, as well as to high school and college volunteer groups.
5. Solicit donations. Work with your committee to compile a list of businesses from which you can seek donations, such as free table and chair rentals, catering services, and prizes to be awarded or raffled off. When you make your pitch, says Lacey, “be sure to remind them that pro bono work
is mutually beneficial.” To sweeten the deal, offer the donor free advertising space on printed event materials. If your charity is an organization with 501(c)3 status (ask a member of the organization’s staff to find out), all donations are tax-deductible, a point you will want to stress to all potential donors.
6. Spread the word. If time permits, begin publicizing your event at least a few weeks
in advance. “Word of mouth is the best way to promote a fund-raiser, as the people most likely to attend are those who are personally asked to participate by someone connected with the event or cause,” says nonprofit executive Dottie Moore.
