How to Host a Fundraising Party

Whether you are looking to raise money for a project such as an independent film or for a good cause, with a bit of advance preparation, you can host a great party that will raise money. Whether planning a small gathering of 50 people or an event with several hundred, here are some ideas to assist you in your planning.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time management
• Organizational skills
• A party budget

1. Create a timeline. It is very important to stay organized. Pick your event date, and work backward. Depending on the size of your event, and the amount of time you can devote to planning, you may need anywhere from a month to a year to successfully plan the party.

2. Make an event schedule. Decide on an admission price, and what sort of entertainment you are offering. You will want to have several money making opportunities at the event, such as an art auction, games, and food and drinks for sale, in addition to entertainment.

3. Locate a space. You will need to secure a big enough space for the number of people you expect, and one that will allow you do what you will want (live music, alcoholic beverages, etc.) Depending on the space, you may be expected to hire outside security.

4. Ask people you know to donate their time or services. If you plan to have an auction, ask friends and artists to donate services or artwork of value that you can sell. If you know a band you can ask them to provide live music.

5. Make a list of people to invite. Invite anyone you know who is interested in your cause or project. If you have a band with a fan base, or well known artists involved, ask them to send information out to their lists. Make sure you explain what the event is, and what it is for, and clearly state that it is a fundraiser. Include important logistics, like the time, address, the event schedule, parking information and what sort of payment types you will accept.

6. Have plenty of people on hand to help at the event. You will need at the very least someone at the door to collect admission, people to sell drinks and food, and people to help with the auction or entertainment.

7. After the event, send thank you notes and updates on your project to anyone who attended the event.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan your budget very carefully. Make sure the time and money you are investing are worth the return. You do not want to lose money on the event.
• Follow the rules of the event space you rent and make sure you know what you are getting. Some spaces have caterers you must use, and/or other insurance requirements that must be followed.