REALTOR® Magazine Online: Taking Advantage of Special Events

YOUR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

REALTOR.ORG/realtormag
.

			*Good Neighbor Tool Kit: Leading a Charity* The Art of Fundraising
	Nonprofit Nuts and Bolts The Art of Fundraising Recruiting Volunteers and Keeping Them Happy Marketing and Public Relations Leadership and the Board Good Neighbor Tool Kit Main Page Good Neighbor Home Page		Taking Advantage of Special Events Oh, it’s so wonderful. That exciting day when people come together to support your organization. What a thrill. And it should be. Put great special events in the scheme of things, and they will return the benefits you seek. But it’s not going to happen without some hard work on your part: Decide the purpose of your event. Fundamentally, there are two kinds of public events: Those that enhance the image and recognition of your organization, and those that raise money. Either kind of event has important fundraising implications. The former creates the right environment for philanthropy. The latter puts dollars in the coffers. An event assumes that there is an audience to be pleased.The absolute rule of special events is that they should not be scheduled unless you’re willing to ensure that the audience for the event will have an enjoyable, enlightening, or enriching time. Accept the fact that in many ways the real focus of the event is not you or your organization but the people attending it. Remember that your event may compete with other events. Unless you think your occasion has real “clout,” consider what else may be scheduled locally and find your own best day to have an event. Don’t be afraid to canvas other organizations about their plans. They probably want to know what you’re planning, too. TIP: It’s not just local competition. Don’t forget to plan around national holidays, vacation periods, and any other potential conflicts. Use the power of a strong volunteer committee. Volunteers who agree to serve on an event committee will contribute their interest, expertise, and connections. Remember the social power of the committee. Expect that every member will attend your event and encourage their friends to do so as well. A good, strong volunteer committee has the power to make an event “happen.” Don’t rule out seeking professional assistance. In most communities there are professionals who conceive, plan, and realize events. If you don’t have the time or the human resources to carry off a major event yourself, hire extra help. The cost will be well returned. 10 Great Special Events >

Copyright THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® | Headquarters: 430 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 |
DC Office: 500 New Jersey Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001 | 1 800 874 6500