| The "Fund-A-Need" program is a vital part of any | | | | it will seem like a separate item on the agenda and |
| benefit auction. It is often times the largest source | | | | the energy of the auction will dissolve. The perfect |
| of revenue for the event. It must be done correctly, | | | | time will depend on your specific event, but most |
| however. Here are some ideas to get you started. | | | | auctioneers recommend half-way or two-thirds of |
| First, you must decide on the need that you will fund. | | | | the way through the live auction. |
| It is imperative that you describe the benefit that will | | | | The speaker who makes the appeal should be |
| be achieved. For example, who will receive the | | | | someone who is directly involved with the cause. It |
| benefits or what opportunities will it provide? | | | | would be ideal if they are directly affected by the |
| Determine the amount of money needed to | | | | need. They should be passionate but brief, moving |
| completely achieve the goal. Create funding levels | | | | the donors to give and inspiring a greater |
| that most people who attend your event can | | | | commitment. A short slideshow or video may be |
| participate in. For example: $100 will provide a child | | | | used at this time. |
| food for a month, $500 will provide new clothes, etc. | | | | It is appropriate for the speaker to introduce the |
| Contact key donors before the event to determine | | | | "Fund-A-Need", but always use a professional benefit |
| their level of commitment and find those willing to | | | | auctioneer to direct and accept the bids. He can |
| contribute matching funds. Even if they cannot | | | | initiate bidding with a lead giver and capture the |
| attend the event, they can participate via proxy. | | | | participation of the entire audience. The charity |
| Make sure to acknowledge their donations at the | | | | auctioneer will generate the energy and make the |
| auction to inspire other donors or to generate the | | | | fund-raising exciting. Overall, your guests should have |
| initial bidding. | | | | fun and feel glad to contribute to your cause. |
| Next you must determine how to schedule the | | | | If done correctly, the "Fund-A-Need" program will |
| "Fund-A-Need" program into your benefit auction. The | | | | revolutionize your benefit auction. The financial gains |
| program should be carried out during the live auction. | | | | will be well worth the time and effort that is |
| Timing is important! If it is too early in the program, | | | | necessary. Your donors will feel much more involved |
| the energy may not be built up sufficiently and | | | | in your cause and increase not only their financial |
| guests are still holding their funds expecting to win | | | | support, but their emotional support as well. |
| bids on items coming up. If it is after the live auction, | | | | |