How to Host a Chili Cook-off for Charity Party

We all like to contribute to our community through charitable organizations, but with the economy on the skids, donations are down. One of the most fun ways to raise awareness and contribute to a good cause is to host an event in which the community at large can participate. Always a crowd-pleaser, a chili cook-off can bring people together, feed them and raise money, all for a very modest outlay of operating funds.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Select your charity. There are many worthy causes to choose from. For a true community event, find a local organization that doesn't have a national foundation supporting its mission. There are libraries, PTA groups, animal shelters and soup kitchens that struggle every day in your community. A quick phone call to a local church may give you some great ideas. However, make sure the charity you select is a 501(C)3, so your sponsors and guests can write off donations and other contributions.

2. Pick the right date. The date and time you set can make or break your fundraiser. Scheduling against a high-school football game, a holiday or another fundraisers can throw your event way off; it's just too much competition. Check local event calendars for conflicts.

3. Find corporate sponsors. If you live in a mid-sized to large metropolitan area, call restaurants. They usually jump at the chance to showcase their culinary abilities, and they know that charitable events are well-covered by the media. Free PR is always good for a restaurant owner. There are also meat-packaging companies, grocery stores and other businesses that can sponsor your event.
   
   Many corporations have funds designated for local charities, and they may also have an army of volunteers to provide.
   
   Check with your local chamber of commerce for a list of businesses, and ask if you can put a news item about your event in their next bulletin.
   
   If you are holding this event in a small town, you may want to run an ad in your local newspaper and ask for entries.

4. Advertise your event. Send calendar notices and press releases to all media outlets in your community and the surrounding area. Most of them will be willing to cover an event that is a fundraiser.

5. Invite the community. Gather mailing lists from your designated charity, other local non-profit organizations and churches to send out fliers. Most churches, restaurants, post offices and coffee shops will let you post your fliers in their windows.

6. Charge a nominal ticket price. The goal is to raise money by bringing in a lot of people. A $5 ticket that gives them a decent bowl of chili and entertainment will bring more people in the door. Your sponsors will appreciate the additional exposure, and so will the cooks.

7. Have an emcee to help you coordinate announcements, work the partygoers and keep the atmosphere lively. A representative of the media works well, but also consider hiring a DJ, who can both supply the music and issue updates.

Tips & Warnings

• Set attainable goals for the fundraiser. Give out door prizes. Award a grand prize for the best chili.