Anyone Have Any Ideas on how to Organize a Fundraiser?

[Yavin4]

I'm part of an organization that may want to do an fundraiser to assist earthquake relief in Haiti. I'm thinking a silent auction. But I don't know how to go about getting items donated.

Anyone have any ideas?

[EFerrari]

1. Yes, you have to make 4 kinds of phone calls.

You need to make a list of press contacts to tell about your event.

You need to make a list of celebrities or near celebrities (including politicos, business leaders, entertainers) that might lend their name.

You need to then make a list of people who could donate stuff that want press.

You need to make a list of people to call who can help you catapult the propaganda, i.e., ring up their networks for your event.

If you decide to do this, have a great time. :)

[Luminous Animal]

2. My advice.

First, everyone in your organization should see what they can donate and also solicit their friends, and all of you should ask local business people that you know. The last silent auction I went to included massages, manicures, pedicures, facials, a rental home at Lake Tahoe, an in-home dinner cooked by a private chef, a private wine cellar tour for 12 from a local winery, a make-over at a beauty store for 10 friends, dinners at several different restaurants, and about 500 "products", new or worthy vintage. (There was a 1970s WHO satin tour jacket signed by the band members that I sooooo wanted but I was totally outbid.) Everything was donated by friends and friends of friends of the organization... quality items only and do not be afraid to reject donations.

Once you get commitments, you can work out the budget. You might be able to get refreshments donated for the event from a grocer or restaurateur. If not, you would have to work that into the budget.

Other budgeted items: venue, music, chairs, tables (for food, drink, and display of the items), covers for the tables, double sided tape, paper plates, cups, napkins, invitations (if you want to do some paper ones), paper for fliers and paper to print descriptions and ID# of the items being bid on, a piece of paper with an ID# and a small pencil for the attendees to keep track of their bids, and paper next to/under/above the items being auctioned so people can write their ID# and bid amount on it.

Don't forget to put a minimum bid on every item.

It is a lot of work and takes some up front money. Depending on the size of your organization and your resources, you might be better off pooling your money and donating to a charity.

[Yavin4]

3. Thanks for the Advice

We have monthly meetings so the silent auction could take place at one of our meetings, so that would eliminate the need to get a special venue, tables, chairs, etc.

I just have to focus on getting the items from our members.

[Luminous Animal]

4. Good luck! I hope it is a great success!