| The most successful fundraising auctions focus more | | | | Previous raffles would have collected names and |
| on getting the right people at their benefit event | | | | addresses also. There are probably others that have |
| rather that getting as many people as they can. | | | | shown interest in your cause in other ways as well. |
| Experienced charity auction planners know that they | | | | Hopefully, your nonprofit keeps a careful record of all |
| have a limited number of seats available at their | | | | your supporters. |
| event and want to fill those with donors who have | | | | The right people to invite are within this all-important |
| the most giving potential. Here are some ideas to | | | | list of devotees. Look for those who have donated |
| help you develop the best audience for your charity | | | | major gifts, bid on or purchased high dollar items at |
| auction. | | | | previous events, were large sponsors, or purchased |
| The most important people to invite to your | | | | corporate tables. In short, you are looking for the |
| fundraising auction are those who have the means | | | | money in the group. These vital supporters deserve |
| and the desire to support your nonprofit organization. | | | | to be cherished and treated like celebrities, and they |
| In the best case scenario, your nonprofit will have | | | | should be the first ones invited to your charity |
| information about people who have supported your | | | | auction. |
| cause in the past. Look at records showing who has | | | | You may only have a fundraising auction once a year |
| donated money, services, or items and even | | | | and you only have a couple of hours and a limited |
| volunteered. If you have had any past events or | | | | number of seats in the room. Make the most of the |
| fundraisers, then there should be lists of who | | | | fundraising opportunity by inviting the right supporters |
| attended and who bid on or purchased items. | | | | to your charity auction. |