Fundraising EventBox: 
Table of Contents | Samples & Examples
"I wanted to thank you for the Fundraising EventBox that I was lucky enough to win at ADO Day. Events are not my favorite thing in the least bit, but I had a chance to go through the box and wanted to tell you that it inspired me to take a different approach. I think it will be a very helpful tool for me in the future!"
Amanda Swan, Deputy Director of Financial Development, American Red Cross in Westchester County.
The Fundraising EventBox is for you if:
- You are the head of a fundraising department that wants to host an event but have no idea where to start.
- You are a board member for a non profit looking for a way for the organization you love to raise more money.
- Have you just been asked to run the school’s next event?!
- You are looking for the ultimate tool to raise more money for your organization.
What You'll find inside...
The Fundraising EventBox
Part I: BEFORE THE EVENT
So, you’ve decided to do an event – let the planning begin …
Quick, where’s the check list, what color are the napkins, who will be the keynote speaker, what’s the menu, what should the invitations look like?! You’re going to have a fund-raising event and all these details have to be decided. And there are only 6 weeks to get it done. Where are the volunteers? !!! HELP!
If this sounds a little like the events you’ve been part of in the past, then it’s time to talk about planning. And, by the way, the details above are probably among the least important items when you’re planning a fund-raising event. What’s most important is understanding why you’re doing the event, how much you hope to raise and how you are going to spotlight your organization as the star!
Planning for your event can be fun, and relatively stress-free when structured and organized around a few simple principles, key committees and a clear purpose that everyone adheres to. Allow yourself enough time (on average between 4-9 months depending on the size and scope of your event) and develop a reasonable game plan to get started. For the initial planning – you don’t need an army or a lot of committee members. That comes later. Initially all you need is some good sound planning. And that is where we will begin.
Part II: AT THE EVENT
The Set-Up
The day of the event has arrived. Every detail has been planned. The guests have registered and they are about to walk through the door. No matter what the size or type of event – the set-up of your event has a direct effect on how much money you raise. You want to appear completely professional. There should not be volunteers, staff or committee members (or members of your Board) walking around wondering what they should be doing. It is all about putting that best foot forward, managing the details and moving every activity toward raising as much money as you can!
Part III – AFTER THE EVENT
The Basics
It’s the day after the event. You are basking in the glow. And, if you have followed the rules and these guidelines, you will have raised a good deal of money! Ahhhhhhh …. Doesn’t it feel wonderful! But wait – you are not yet done. Not by a long shot. There are certain things you must do.
If you didn’t do it … then you blew it
So, here are the basics:
Part IV: WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM OUR FRIENDS
There are many specialists who support events and make a difference between mediocrity and extraordinary success. I have asked four of the best I know to share their thoughts and secrets on what is necessary to be truly successful from their vantage point. I salute their commitment and am honored they are part of
The Fundraising EventBox!
Part V: SAMPLES & EXAMPLES
In this section you will find examples of the forms used throughout this manual for you to refer to. We have also provided forms on a CD for you to modify and use at your own event.
