How to Solicit Charity Auction Items

Silent auctions help raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities each year. Finding unique and interesting items to include in the auctions requires a committed team of people willing to write letters and make phone calls on behalf of their organization. Soliciting great charity auction items is worth the time and effort and makes a great addition to your benefit gala.

Instructions

1. Recruit people to become members of an auction sub-committee. Talk to members of your benefit committee about working on the auction. Ask them to recommend others who have experience soliciting auction items.

2. Brainstorm dream items with your committee. Consider how you want to approach the auction. Do you want to create packages that relate to the theme of your event or focus on finding items that are proven money-makers?

3. Draft a solicitation letter. Explain the mission of your organization and why you are raising money. Give the details of the event, including date, location and time, as well as any special details such as honoree and Master of Ceremonies. Explicitly state what item you want the establishment to donate.

4. Call each restaurant, hotel and theater to get the name of the person with the authority to give donations and address the letter to that person. The letter should be signed by the head of the auction committee.

5. Ask members of the benefit committee for donations. Many people who serve on benefit committees have access to unique or hard to get items. When you run into hurdles getting donations, find connections within your committee.

6. Make follow up phone calls. Most places you send letters to receive numerous requests for donations. A phone call confirming they received the letter you mailed reminds them about your event and increases the likelihood of a positive outcome.