It's a Fine Line

It’s no secret that our economy is currently facing challenges of epic proportion. This translates directly into less charitable and corporate giving. The work that non-profits and charities do is necessary in good times and bad; however many would argue that in bad times their work is even more important. Serious illnesses like cancer don’t take a sabbatical when unemployment is high or when banks fail.

I’m of the opinion that one of the worst decisions that a non-profit can make is to cancel a fundraiser. Both people and companies whom would have sponsored the event will likely give elsewhere (albeit the giving might be less than in previous years) and getting those sponsors back in future years after new relationships are made can be daunting. Instead the non-profit or charity should set realistic fundraising expectations and take the opportunity to reinvent their event. While soliciting donations and sponsorships is tougher than ever, believe it or not, there is still money out there.

Being a planner, when I attend an event as a guest I have the blessing and curse to pick apart every detail of an event. When I attend lavish galas, the planner inside me often says: “Wow, what a waste, my ticket barely paid for the centerpiece at my table!” It’s a fine line, because people who pay good money to attend fundraisers are entitled to a nice event and a good time, but the underlying charity should not be exploited in the process. Lavish décor in tough times sends the wrong message so this is where the reinvention comes in. One suggestion is to scale back the frou-frou and embrace to current economy with doing “It’s a Jungle Out There” as your theme. This affirms the obvious and shows your donors that you stand tall in the face of adversity; however regardless of your theme it is absolutely essential to continue fundraising, proceed with scheduled events and send the right message to your donors. Everyone wins!