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Step 1
Art's Shoe ServiceAsk merchants you deal with directly for donations. These include your own dry cleaner, manicurist, hair salon, barber, grocery store...the possibilities are endless. Ask them for a gift certificate for services rendered in a specific amount. This way, the donation won't cost them anything if the winning bidder ends up not using it. Also, the gift certificate doesn't have to be the full amount of a particular service --- a gift certificate for 50-75% of the amount of the service is terrific.
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Step 2
Gift CertificateAsk merchants in the immediate neighborhood of the school or organization for donations or gift certificates. These can include jewelers, theatres, restaurants, fast food establishments, caterers, florists, golf courses, exercise clubs, antique stores, and on and on. Ask to speak to the manager, tell them who you are representing, present a donation form, and ask them for a donation or gift certificate for services --- again, a gift certificate for credit against something in the store or for classes or visits or food is a great way for them to obtain a new customer, and won't cost them anything unless the winning bidder actually uses it. (Be sure to send each donor a thank you note and a form showing the value of his/her donation on the stationery of your school or charity.)
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Step 3
Charlotte Fire DepartmentBe creative! Ask local zoos, aquariums, amusement parks, large companies, politicians, etc., etc. for donations. One very nice firehouse donated a ride on a firetruck to the winning bidder ... and lunch with the firemen! A zoo donated a private tour for 10 children. A mayor donated lunch and afternoon with the mayor. Of course, the principal of the school or executive of the charity can be tapped to donate dinner, make dinner at the winning bidder's house, take them to lunch...The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!
