How to Find Silent Auction Donation Items

Finding donations for items to auction at a silent auction is one of the most important things you must do in preparation of the auction. High quality and highly desirable items will make more money for your cause than cheap and off-the-wall items. Before you try to get a donation for the auction, you must have the plans for the auction set. Very few people will donate items or services to an auction that isn’t properly planned.

Instructions

1. Draft a letter requesting items for your silent auction. You should state clearly the purpose of the auction and the auction date. The more information you put about your cause in the letter, the more likely you will be to get items. Some companies require these letters before a donation will be considered.

2. Get organized. Write out your request and practice it. Use the script when you make phone calls, and keep a detailed list of companies you called. Include the contact person’s name, phone number and the outcome of the call (item donated, call back, send information, unable to help).

3. Call national or regional stores and businesses to ask for donations. Some corporations have a budget for donations to worthy causes. In most cases, you will have to provide literature about the event to the company. Call large companies as soon as you have the details about the auction, as it may take a while to get approval for the donation.

4. Contact local businesses about the auction. Make a call to businesses that may offer items. Restaurants, movie theaters or activity-based businesses may offer vouchers for services. A hotel that is locally owned may offer a voucher for a night or weekend, or a gym may offer free workout sessions. When you contact the businesses, speak to the manager and remind them that the business will gain exposure during the event.

5. Ask local residents to offer goods and services. Appliances, electronics and services are all items that may do well at the auction. An accountant can offer a free tax preparation or a lawn care company may offer a free grass cutting. An artist may donate a painting.

6. Be willing to drive around town to pick up the donations. Some people and companies will be more likely to donate items if you arrange delivery to the auction site.

Tips & Warnings

• If your charity is a nonprofit organization, sometimes referred to as a 501(c)(3), you can offer businesses and individuals receipts that include the value of the items donated. They can then use this as a tax deduction.

References

• Red Hot Fundraising Ideas
• "Fundraising For Dummies"; John Mutz and Katherine Murray; 2005
• Learning to Give

Resources

• Read this Article in UK English