One of the ways you can help is to raise funds to support our programs, research, or education and outreach initiatives. We are grateful for your gift of both time and fundraising dollars. Anyone can host a community fundraising event. Here are some tips:
Be creative ...
Brainstorm with family and friends to develop an event that will be interesting and enjoyable. Golf outing, an auction, 5K walk or run, bowling event, spa day, car wash, art fair, bake sale, wine tasting, black tie event or gala, car or motorcycle show - the list is endless and so is your creativity.
Create a timeline ...
What needs to be completed by when and by whom? Creating a timeline will help you stay on task and, most importantly, on time.
Recruit your event committee ...
A great source of support for your event can be found by forming a committee of your closest friends, family, community members, and colleagues to help manage the many components and logistics involved in event planning. A core committee should share the same passion for the cause.
Set your goals ...
How many people would you like to participate in your event? What is the expected event revenue? What are your expenses? Will this be a one-time event or an annual event?
Set a date and a location ...
Once you have selected the type of fundraising event, you’ll need to select a date and a location. As a suggestion, try to avoid major holidays or other times when your expected audience could be otherwise engaged. Be sure to select a date that is far enough out to enable you to really promote your event and get people engaged.
Promote, publicize and prepare ...
The key to a successful event is to raise awareness about it and be well prepared for the big day. Make flyers and posters, send out e-mails, use Facebook or other social media, work with local newspapers and radio stations, recruit private and corporate sponsors, etc.
The event is over...now what?
Be sure to express how much you appreciate everyone’s support of your fundraising event. Consider including in your thank you how much was raised to support the W.K. Kellogg Eye Center and how people have helped to advance research to make a difference in the lives of people with eye disease and their families.
Lastly, take a bow and congratulate yourself and your committee on creating a successful fundraising event to support the W.K. Kellogg Eye Center. Every dollar counts!