Tag: Fundraisers

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Overcoming Common Challenges in Event Fundraising

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Event fundraising is one of the most powerful tools nonprofits can use to raise vital funds, engage donors, and secure critical funding. Yet it is essential to note that events can be challenging and expose weaknesses in your infrastructure. 

Today, we will explore some of the more common hurdles and practical solutions you can use to overcome them.  Whether you are a nonprofit leader, board member, or dedicated volunteer, these insights can enhance your fundraising efforts and amplify your impact.

BUDGET CONSTRAINTS

Limited budgets sometimes interrupt plans to execute high-impact events that attract and engage donors.  But it doesn’t have to be that way.  Here are some possible solutions to add to your toolkit when confronting this all-to-familiar challenge:

  • Strategic Planning: Prioritize and plan strategically without rushing through the process. Start by agreeing upon your goals for the event and identifying the tools and resources you need to achieve them.
  • Partnerships and Sponsorships: Consider partnerships or sponsorships to manage your expenses. Will you have to share the spotlight? Yes, but the relationship could prove invaluable and bring other enhanced benefits such as co-marketing efforts, aligning around shared values, and introducing the potential to engage an entirely new audience who could become members of your donor community.

Example: A notable example of event partnerships is the collaboration between District 20-K1 Lions, which operates under the auspices of Lions Club International, and the American Cancer Society. These organizations have worked together on various events, leveraging each other’s strengths to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and support services.

DONOR FATIGUE

Sending out ill-timed, haphazardly crafted, or lackluster ticket or table solicitations can lead to donor fatigue. To be totally transparent, within the past few weeks I have been completely overwhelmed with the amount of solicitations I have been receiving. Can you guess what happens as a result? I have not been able to respond to any effectively. Here ae some ways to ensure that your appeals don’t alienate your donors:

  • Diversify Fundraising Strategies: Keep donors engaged by diversifying your fundraising strategies. As you begin your event fundraising campaign, think of other ways donors can support beyond the tried-and-true click, purchase, and check out.
  • Peer-to-Peer Campaigns: Launch a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign if your Board is up to it.
  • Beneficiary Involvement: Are your beneficiaries readily accessible? If so, have them lead your fundraising campaign. Allow them to tell their story briefly and appeal for support from prospective event participants.
  • Exclusive Experiences: Depending on your event, offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look or conversation with a previous donor or honoree.

VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT

Coordinating and retaining volunteers for events can be challenging, impacting the overall success of your guest experience. To ensure a pleasant experience for your event attendees and volunteers, here are a few suggestions that have worked wonders for me during past events:

  • Build a Strong Team: Prioritize building a solid volunteer team that will be honored to support your event agenda.
  • Define Roles and Training: Clearly define roles and responsibilities and provide thorough training to ensure volunteers feel prepared and valued.
  • Recognition and Community: Regularly recognize and reward volunteers’ contributions. Foster a sense of community by creating opportunities for volunteers to connect and for you to recognize and reward them for their service.

Example: Habitat for Humanity excels in volunteer management by providing clear roles, comprehensive training, and regular recognition, which keeps its volunteers engaged and committed.

MARKETING AND PROMOTION

Reaching and attracting a broad event audience can take time and effort, especially for small or emerging nonprofits with limited marketing resources. There is no magic wand to wave that will bring donors to your door, but with some creativity and persistence, your efforts will pay off. Here are some suggestions to add to your toolkit:

  • Multi-Channel Marketing: To maximize your reach, utilize a multi-channel marketing approach. Combine traditional direct mail and print advertising with digital strategies like social media, email marketing, and online advertising.
  • Compelling Content: Create compelling content that tells your organization’s story and highlights the unique aspects of your event.
  • Leverage Partnerships: Partner with local businesses and media outlets to expand your promotional efforts.
  • Engaging Visuals: Enhance your marketing campaigns with engaging visuals and video content. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, so don’t be afraid to mix things up to see what works.

Example: The Girl Scouts of the USA NYC Region effectively use multi-channel marketing by combining social media campaigns with traditional methods like community events and engaging ambassadors across the country, successfully expanding their reach and engagement.

PARTING THOUGHTS

By addressing these common challenges with thoughtful strategies and a proactive approach, nonprofit organizations can enhance their event fundraising efforts and achieve tremendous success. 

Remember, strategic planning, effective communication, and continuous evaluation are the keys to overcoming these hurdles. Doing the hard work in advance can ensure that your events meet your fundraising goals and inspire and engage your community, driving meaningful change and amplifying your impact.

If you want to improve the effectiveness of your event, click here to learn more about our services.

Here’s to your success.

Monique

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Answering the Call: Elevate Your Nonprofit’s Signature Event

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Congratulations on Successfully Finishing Another Year!

As we close the chapter on another fiscal year, congratulations on your achievements and the impact you’ve made! The final push to close the fiscal year often includes sending out last-minute receipts, making thank-you calls, updating donors on your accomplishments, sharing heartfelt messages from beneficiaries, and celebrating staff achievements. Now, it’s time to begin a new chapter in your organization’s fundraising history.

The Signature Event Question

Board members and stakeholders may have raised the idea of hosting your organization’s flagship event. In the nonprofit fundraising world, opinions on special events vary widely. Some are enthusiastic about diving in, while others prefer focusing on major donors. Both perspectives have merit, and it’s essential to weigh them carefully.

Strategic Considerations for Your Signature Event

When I consult with nonprofit leaders, I emphasize the importance of thorough preparation before committing to a special event. Special events can generate significant revenue and visibility, but not at the expense of other vital revenue streams.

What Happens Next?

After thorough discussions with your board and colleagues, you’ve decided to proceed with your signature event. What should you prioritize next?

Prioritizing Key Elements

  1. Look Beyond the Applause and Do a Resource Assessment: More importantly, enlist your team’s help with this task. Always gather feedback from those closest to the project and its potential challenges.
  2. Examine the Toll on Your Staff: Events are rewarding, and everyone is rightly proud of successful outcomes. However, it’s important to recognize the hidden toll this work can take on your team. Make sure their workload is manageable and that their well-being is prioritized.
  3. Analyze Your Organization’s Visibility: Assess how (or if) your organization’s visibility has grown since your last event. Have you kept pace with social media posting, newsletters, and thought leadership articles? Ensure your message continues to resonate with those you’ve worked hard to engage.
  4. Ensure Financial Viability and Strategic Value: While there are numerous benefits to hosting an event beyond fundraising, it is crucial to manage expenses transparently and practice excellent fiscal management. Confirm that the event is financially viable and strategically beneficial for your organization.

What If You’re Not Ready?

If you find you’re not ready to host the event as planned, it’s vital to take strategic steps to prepare for future opportunities.

Steps to Take if You Need to Delay

  1. Communicate Transparently: Inform stakeholders about the decision to delay. Emphasize your commitment to hosting a successful and impactful event in the future.
  2. Reassess Resources and Capacity: Identify and address any gaps in resources, staff capacity, and potential ROI. Use this time to strengthen your foundation.
  3. Engage Through Alternatives: Maintain momentum and interest through virtual events, newsletters, and social media engagement. Keep your audience connected and engaged.
  4. Strengthen Partnerships: Keep partners and sponsors informed and involved. Maintain strong relationships to ensure their continued support.
  5. Invest in Staff Development: Enhance your team’s skills and readiness through training and development. Prepare them for when the time is right to execute a seamless event.

By following these steps, you can ensure that when the time comes, your organization is fully prepared to execute a seamless and effective event.

Encouragement for the Journey Ahead

As you embark on this new fiscal year, remember that careful planning and strategic thinking are your allies. Your flagship event has the potential to significantly elevate your organization’s visibility and support. Stay encouraged, communicate transparently, and invest in your team’s development to achieve your fundraising goals.

Here’s to your success.

Monique

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Crafting Your Signature Event for Maximum Impact

Dear Friends and Colleagues, 

In the dynamic world of nonprofit fundraising, the decision to host a signature event often marks a pivotal moment. It’s a choice that can propel your organization forward, creating unparalleled opportunities for engagement and growth. But with such potential comes a myriad of questions and considerations. How do you navigate these decisions to build an event that resonates with your mission and leaves a lasting impact?

You have probably heard enough opinions about the practicality of hosting special events to make you reassess everything you believed about the process.

As you weigh the pros and cons of entering the nonprofit event arena, you will encounter those who will say, ‘Let’s get started already!’ And they put all their energy towards helping ensure a successful outcome.

However, you will also need to weigh the opinions of your skeptics, who will say, ‘Let’s pass,’ for they believe focusing on top donors will be more fruitful. As you are reading this, you may feel the same way.

So, what should your strategy be?

A group strategizing on their organization's first or next special event fundraiser.

Whenever I consult with nonprofit leaders, I advise them to consider their options. While special events are essential to an integrated fundraising strategy, you must be prepared before committing.

The revenue can be impressive and impactful for your organization. However, it would be best if you did not pursue events at the expense of other revenue streams.

After thorough discussions with your board and colleagues, you’ve decided to proceed with your signature event.

What happens next? What should you prioritize?

Here are some non-negotiable items to consider:

  • Carefully assess your resources to determine if you can afford to host this event.
  • Plan an event that is within your means.
  • Consider the event’s impact on your staff while they continue to manage their contractual duties.
  • Determine how this event will increase your visibility and generate support.
  • Take time to assess the ROI for your organization correctly.

The journey to creating your signature event is as unique as your organization itself. By carefully weighing your resources, understanding your team’s capabilities, and focusing on the potential impact and ROI, you can craft an event that captivates your audience and significantly bolsters your cause.

Parting Thoughts

Remember, the success of your event lies not just in its size and splendor but in its ability to represent and advance your mission authentically. Here’s to crafting an event that embodies the spirit of your organization and leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.

Fondly,

Monique

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Unsung, Not Unseen: Recognizing the Everyday Heroes of Philanthropy

Introduction: Discovering the World of Philanthropy

My fundraising journey began at a major art museum in Brooklyn, where I first encountered the concept of ‘quiet wealth.’ This experience sparked my curiosity about the motivations and backgrounds of donors. As a young professional, I was intrigued by how donors shape the direction of institutions like museums. Dr. Keith Leaphart’s insights in “Celebrating Everyday Philanthropists” (Nonprofit Pro, March 29, 2023) deeply resonate with these early experiences.

The Early Understanding: Fundraising Dynamics

Initially, I saw fundraising as straightforward: clarify the mission, identify potential donors, and make a compelling ask. This view evolved as I delved deeper. Dr. Leaphart’s observation that most donations come from unsung benefactors who consistently support nonprofits reflects this more profound understanding.

Transition: Shifting Focus

After eight years, I shifted my focus to advocating for marginalized groups. As a result, I was exposed to the harsh realities of fundraising, where struggles for visibility and resources supporting marginalized groups seeking access to quality healthcare, higher education, affordable housing, business, and community development were heightened. In this context, the role of unsung benefactors, highlighted by Dr. Leaphart, became increasingly critical.

Expanding Horizons: Diverse Experiences

Over the next two decades, I worked with various organizations, from a museum finding its first home to a foundation supporting scholars at one of the finest gloal educational systems in the Caribbean. Each experience deepened my understanding of the challenges different groups face and the indispensable role of unsung benefactors. I learned how local acts of giving, often quiet and personal, can ripple out to create a global impact. This realization added a new dimension to my appreciation of philanthropy, showing me how the journey of a single act of kindness can extend far beyond community borders, influencing philanthropic efforts globally.

Learnings: Realizing the Depth of Fundraising

My journey taught me that successful fundraising requires understanding societal biases and the unique challenges marginalized and underrepresented groups face. This realization aligns with Dr. Leaphart’s perspective on celebrating contributions from all donors, irrespective of their size.

Parting Thoughts: Appreciating The Global Reach of Local Giving

With over three decades in New York City’s nonprofit sector, I’ve learned to recognize and celebrate all forms of philanthropy. Reflecting on my journey, I am struck by the interconnected nature of philanthropic efforts. From a modest donation at a local charity event to a strategic grant by a significant foundation, every act of giving is part of a larger tapestry of global philanthropy.

This idea aligns with my article’s visual metaphor of the world map, illustrating how individual acts of kindness contribute to a vibrant, interconnected global impact. It’s a reminder that every contribution, every unsung benefactor, plays a part in the broader narrative of global philanthropy.

Embracing Dr. Leaphart’s insights, I understand the power of collective giving and the impact of every donor, big or small. As we progress, we should honor all philanthropists – from high-profile donors to quiet, consistent supporters – acknowledging their invaluable contributions to our society.

Acknowledgments

In developing my understanding of the broader philanthropic landscape, the perspectives shared by Dr. Keith Leaphart in “Celebrating Everyday Philanthropists” (Nonprofit Pro, March 29, 2023) have been invaluable. His emphasis on the critical role of unsung benefactors in the nonprofit sector has provided an essential framework for my reflections on the field.

Fondly,

Monique

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It is truly an honor to both celebrate our past achievements and usher in new beginnings together.

As we embark on this fresh journey, may we take a moment to reflect on our shared experiences, cherish the connections we’ve forged, and seek new avenues to positively impact the lives of those around us.

Please know that we are always here, ready and eager to support your vision for the future.

Fondly,

Monique

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The Unseen Influence of Nonprofit Events: Beyond Fundraising Galas

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Over three decades in the nonprofit realm, I’ve seen firsthand that events are not just gatherings but potent catalysts for change and touchpoints for community building. Yet, opinions vary widely among nonprofit leaders, board members, volunteers, and community stakeholders.

For larger, financially solid nonprofit organizations with a robust major donor pipeline, events are often viewed as resource-intensive without an immediate ROI. Conversely, events are pivotal for emerging community-based nonprofits looking to raise their visibility and strengthen their major donor pipeline. They capture attention and funds otherwise inaccessible, becoming a focal point for an integrated fundraising strategy.

Having supported the fundraising agendas of established and emerging nonprofits, I appreciate the challenges smaller organizations face, particularly in capturing the attention of funders in the philanthropic marketplace.

Emerging community-based nonprofits often need help fitting within the rigid overhead funding models, leading them to innovative fundraising strategies like special events. Eager to grow their standing in the philanthropic world, these organizations often find special events the most effective option for maximizing their resources.

Remember, not every event is a gala! Several ticketed events occupy this space and are great investments for the host organization. From intimate donor dinners to community-wide festivals, the spectrum of events is as diverse as the causes they support. I will delve deeper into specific types of events in future posts.

Today, I want to share why many of the nonprofit leaders I support decide to host events:

  • Diversification of Revenue: Special events provide an additional income stream, complementing other fundraising efforts like grants, donations, and memberships. This diversification helps organizations maintain financial stability and reduce dependence on a single funding source.
  • Community Engagement: Special events serve as platforms for engaging the community and building stronger relationships with supporters. They unite donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
  • Increased Visibility: Special events can generate media coverage and social media buzz, increasing the organization’s visibility and engaging new donors, volunteers, and supporters who may become more involved with your organization.
  • Donor Cultivation: Special events allow nonprofits to interact with donors and prospects personally. They provide opportunities to cultivate relationships, express gratitude, and update on the organization’s accomplishments, potentially leading to increased future giving.
  • Funding Specific Projects: Nonprofits often use proceeds from special events to fund specific projects or initiatives not covered by earmarked funds. Attending donors learn about critical yet unfunded projects and initiatives that resonate with their values, potentially motivating them to increase their support.

Parting Thoughts

If you are leaning towards hosting events, remember the unique opportunity to showcase your organization before a group of prospects and donors who have enthusiastically accepted (and paid for) your invitation to learn more about your mission and programs.

The list I’ve mentioned needs to be completed, but it’s a good start to inform your present (or future) discussions. As you contemplate hosting your first or next event, consider these tangible benefits beyond fundraising.

Fondly,

Monique

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For You, the Quiet Philanthropists Who Never Pressed Pause

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I have attempted to write this message on several occasions and each time I felt overwhelmed by the devastating impact of Covid-19 and didn’t quite know what to say.  For what feels like an eternity, we have been navigating what has quickly become our new normal. On Monday, June 8th, New York City’s economy will reopen and we will begin the enormous task of assessing the emotional and financial toll and creating new systems in order to survive.

As a member of the nonprofit community, I have seen first-hand the heroic support, provided by women and men like you – the quiet philanthropists – who showed up day after day to ensure the needs of your constituents and beneficiaries were met. From reaching out to your formal (and informal) networks, to providing food, shelter, clothing, money, housing and transportation, to enlisting vital support from everyone who would listen, you (we) stayed the course; sometimes at the expense of your own organization.

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the sacrifices made by our small/independent business owners. You have generously supported our essential workers and your colleagues in the non-profit community in numerous ways. From making cash contributions to donating goods and services freely and without being asked.  Regardless of your affiliation, you are the leaders and voices for this moment in history.

Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do.  You are truly a life-force for our local communities, nationally and globally. Please remember, no one is equipped to do this work alone. Continue to enlist the support that you need as you show up for others.

We appreciate you!

Monique Brizz-Walker

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Envisioning Your Gala

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™ series created to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved.  In my previous article I provided insights to consider when Collaborating with Honorees on your signature fundraising event, which can be accessed by following this link.

Today I am pleased to share tips to keep in mind when planning your organization’s first (or reinvigorated) Grand Affair With Lasting Appeal (GALA). Unlike any other event you will host or imagine a GALA conveys a grand vision that has come to life; uniquely designed to create a memorable experience for prospects, donors and stakeholders.

For many attendees your event will be their first introduction to your organization; therefore you are charged with providing an experience that is exciting and informative, elegant and engaging. Whether the dress code is festive wear or business attire, black tie or white tie, your objective is to create an environment that will impress donors enough to convert them from passive observers into active participants.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning for your (GALA):

  1. Your GALA’s objectives should be well-defined and have measurable outcomes.  Most important of all, please take the time to gain clarity around why you have asked guests to gather and the message you want to convey.  This is also an opportunity to allow donors and stakeholders to interact with your program’s beneficiaries and see their philanthropy at work.
  2. Your GALA must have the appropriate team to achieve success. Every participant – honorees, gala committee members, emcees, entertainers, designers, staff and volunteers – must be committed to the vision or it simply will not work.
  3. Your GALA’s ticket and table prices must be structured to create a successful outcome. Funds raised will help strengthen working capital and create a new portal of donors who share your organization’s values. Your GALA will help set the stage for future events and your objective is to leave donors clamoring for ways to be involved.
  4. Your GALA’s look and feel should give the impression something special is going to take place.  The venue you choose is critical to achieving this objective.  While your event must feel special and worthy of your guests’ investment; please be mindful as you to not want to produce an event that will come across as wasteful to your target audience.  

High-level events are a great way to raise funds and build relationships but there are many steps involved.  However, with the right strategies you will be able to plan with precision and execute with excellence.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Collaborating with Corporate Honorees

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™. I created this series to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved. 

In my earlier article, I discussed Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case For Support, which can be accessed via this link.  As you and your team work to implement sustainable fundraising strategies, one of the most rewarding moments is when a corporate chairman or CEO agrees to be honored.

Collaborating with an industry leader who recognizes the importance of strategically positioning your organization in the philanthropic marketplace can greatly impact your fundraising success. As your team prepares to take action, remember that corporate honorees must carefully align your organization’s needs with their broader social responsibility objectives.

Today, I am pleased to share some insights to consider when Collaborating with Honorees on your signature fundraising event. 

1. Corporate honorees have influence but do not have an open checkbook.  The good news is you are working with proven leaders.  Once they have a clear understanding of your needs and commit to the fundraising campaign, you will receive great support.

2. Corporate support may take many forms.  “Do you make it easy for others to support your work? When seeking corporate support, consider offering options like a one-time lead gift to fund a specific program area, a multi-year commitment to launch a new initiative, or a one-time lead gift to support your event paired with a pledge to secure extra funding through their network. Presenting clear and flexible opportunities can help potential corporate partners align their contributions with your organization’s goals.

3. Corporate honorees are careful with their investments.  CEOs take pride in knowing their resources (time, money, key personnel) add value to your organization’s bottom line.  At the same time, they take comfort in knowing your team will take an active role in fundraising efforts. 

4. Corporate communication generally takes place via a member of their executive team. Traditionally, this person will be a senior-level manager designated to help you and update the honoree.  Please honor and work within this structure.

5. Business etiquette goes a long way.  Your organization contact should have great interpersonal skills and be capable of communicate with business leaders with professionalism and tact.  This will help build a lasting relationship long after the event is over.

Additionally to generating essential funds for your organization, high-level events offer an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships for future collaboration. While the process involves many steps, implementing the right strategies will allow you to plan with precision and execute with excellence.

If I can support your efforts please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Fondly,

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Setting the Stage for Success

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™ .   I created this series to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders who are interested in hosting their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorating a dormant event, but may feel overwhelmed by the process.

One of the first things you must do is obtain buy-in from members of your leadership team, the board of directors and a small circle of influential donors – who will each play an important role in the fundraising campaign.  However, without a blueprint to follow, where will you begin?

Today I will share 5 essential questions to help inform your discussions with these key stakeholders.

1.  Why are you hosting this event?

There are many reasons why you have decided to host your signature event, chief among them is to generate income from table and ticket sales. That said, you should be able to clearly articulate how you will use the proceeds.  Will you add new programs and services, or enhance ones that already exist?  Will you participate in executive level training to further develop your leadership skills?  How will you invest in your team?

2.  Can you afford to do this?

Planning and executing large events can be expensive, and many unexpected costs will come up along the way.   You must honestly assess how much you can invest, set a budget and determine the impact of these expenses on your day-to-day operations.  Equally important, you must decide if you have enough cash on-hand to sustain the organization until the fundraising campaign generates income.

3.  Do you have sufficient resources?

Please keep in mind, this event will unfold as you continue to manage your daily responsibilities. You must continue to serve your beneficiaries, collaborate with stakeholders and manage your team. Therefore, you should carefully determine how you will manage the interruptions that generally accompany events of this magnitude.  Do you expect staff to shoulder the additional responsibilities or will you hire a professional team to provide assistance?

4.  How will you engage your supporters?

Some organizations are challenged around ways to keep donors informed and engaged after the event.  As you work to build your financial future, the quality of your interactions will be key.  Among the high-level touches sophisticated donors will expect are invitations to curated cultivation and scholarly events, in-person updates on your beneficiaries progress and where you see them in your organization’s future.

5.  How will you tell your hero stories?

If you showcase your beneficiaries during the event, you must do this in a way that honors them and presents their accomplishments in the best light.  Remember everyone will watch how you treat those you have pledged to serve.

Hosting your first signature fundraiser is not easy. However, once your event is fine-tuned, and enjoys a loyal base of committed supporters, it will prove to be profitable for your bottom line.  With proper planning and patience, you will be positioned to achieve six-or-seven figure event success.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

With kind regards,

Monique

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