A couple of weeks ago I got a chance to spend time with the hard working fund development team at Jeremiah Program in Minneapolis, MN. As they finalized their plans for their upcoming golf event I asked them how would they infuse their mission into the golf outing?
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Their mission: Helping single mothers and their children break the cycle of poverty.
I have learned from author, fundraising professional and philanthropist Lynne Twist, “Fundraising, consistent with the mission will always produce enough money.”
After a discussion about what they COULD do, the team got into action quickly to implement some of our brainstorming ideas. They focused on creating “hole signage” that was very unique and inspiring. They made sure the language and messages used throughout the day at their golf outing brought their mission alive.
Angela, Director of Major Gifts & Special Events, sent me an email last week that shared the awesome results of the event due to the simple, powerful changes they had made to infuse the event with their mission.
Here is Angie’s list. . . I recommend you use it as a checklist for your own events:
The biggest change at this event was that we created “teaser” signage at each hole on the golf course. We wanted to introduce our post-event student speaker and entice our golfers to stick around to learn more. Other things we did differently:
- During the “fund-a-need” we had a very specific goal, with a timeline and a sense of urgency;
- We created emotion through the speaker sharing her life story;
- We created an emotional connection – making it personal for people to participate: “You’ll help make Jyssica’s dream come true for another family and when $25,000 is raised tonight”- the cost of one family for one year at Jeremiah Program.
- We created talking points for our Executive Director and Emcee to set the stage for the ask. The Emcee then asked for $10,000 ; $5,000; $3,000; $1,000. . . Hands were going up all over the room! The energy in the room was contagious.
In about 5 minutes the fund-a-need raised: $34,600! Our goal was $10,000.
We are thrilled! This was the most successful tournament to date on all levels. Guests bid goodbye with “See you next year!”
Awesome work, Angie and team! Congratulations!
