https://youtu.be/ANynfeTyPx4

David Taylor - my friend, my brother and truly an inspiration

I am blessed.  There are people who come into your life for no apparent reason, this is the story of one such man who has truly become an inspiration in my life.  Several years ago, through Facebook, an auctioneer from South Carolina named David Taylor reached out to me to talk about working together in his home state of South Carolina.  We shared two common bonds that took our conversation from just acquaintances to being friends, not only were we in the Auction World but both of us had been former Law Enforcement.  That “Thin Blue Line” bond was what truly became our bond since we had both lived a life of service to our state and country.

We spoke over the phone, through text messages and facebook messenger.  For several months we planned and shared auction “War Stories.”  He introduced me to several people who lived in and around Maryland who he knew.  I had never truly met David but from hearing his voice and reading his words, I could easily tell he is one of the rare “True Blue” kind people you rarely come across. 

Then suddenly, David stopped sending me messages or calling.  I wondered what had happened to him.  Then I saw a post on facebook that brought me to tears.  My good friend, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever not met but became good friends with, had a severe brain aneurysm.  I saw photos of him lying in a hospital bed with tubes attached to him everywhere they could possibly be.  He was in a coma and did not seem to be recovering.  I spoke to a common friend who said he seemed to be getting worse and that prayers for him were desperately needed.  I bowed my head on many occasions praying for my friends recovery or, and I hate to admit this, but for our Lord to take him peacefully.  I continued to ask questions about him to determine where he was and if anything had changed.  

Then suddenly, as it seems, all the prayers for David were answered.  David had came out of the coma and his long road to recovery had begun.  What a powerful message.  What a warrior, I was so proud of him.  I watched as he pushed himself to be back again to the man he was. 

David Taylor is a very proud and humble man but his inner strength brought him back to his feet.  When I could, we spoke and he told me the story.  I am so proud of him, the man I knew showed me how our inner strength and faith can be victories over the worst battles. 

David is now back to our world, back to the life which seemed to be taken away.  David my friend, you are a true inspiration to me.  You showed me that we can get back onto our knees, stand back up after being knocked down and facing death.  If you my friend can win that battle alone with the prayers and tears of family and friends, we can recover from anything we endure.

Thank you for being my friend and being in my life.  You are truly an inspiration to me each and every day and I feel blessed to call you my friend.

Your friend,

George

BREAKING NEWS!!! "Paying It Forward Fundraising"

Today, we are proud to announce that our newest fundraising platform “Paying It Forward Fundraising” is launching in Twin Falls Idaho in several locations across the city.  The auctions benefit the United Way, the Boys & Girls Club and the Boy Scouts of Twin Falls.

What is “Paying It Forward Fundraising”?  Over the past several years, many people have come to me and said that we should start placing Silent Auctions in restaurants, hotels and businesses.  But, due to our rapidly expanding company and time being a very precious commodity; we weren’t in a position to move forward with it. 

However, recently, I met a fantastic family who are from Utah & Idaho – The Pierce’s.  After meeting with Brad Peirce, I could see the fire and passion in his eyes to help our company help charities all across North America.  He quickly began to help charities in Idaho and wanted to learn more.  I was then introduced to his family.  They too wanted to help and were passionate about doing whatever they could to be a part of our company.  There was no better group of fine, good hearted people to help launch this platform across the United States.

“Paying It Forward Fundraising” allows charities and businesses to set up a Silent Auction with the “Buy It Now” ability in restaurants, hotels, businesses etc.  The charity or business owner sets the margin or profit percentage above the cost to nonprofit.  There is absolutely no cost that the charity or business incurs nor do they have to do anything but provide wall space.   

All the charity or business owner should do, but does not have to, is to promote the Silent Auction.  Since it benefits our charity partners, the charity should promote the Silent Auction to their supporters and through the Social Networks.  That’s it.

The “Paying It Forward Fundraising” Auction will be set up for at least two (2) weeks.  Our staff will monitor and collect the bid sheets, contact the buyers, process the payments and ship out the items to all the winning bidders.   100% of the proceeds then go directly to the charity. 

If a Business Owner would like to help a local charity, they tell us who the local charity is so that we can post it on the notice which is beside the auction.  At the end of each auction, our staff will present a large check with the proceeds written on it in the name of the selected charity.  This is an excellent opportunity for businesses to help their local community.  They can Press Release their efforts and post photos of the check presentation to the charity on the social networks and in local news.

The auctions carry a wide array of Décor items ranging from Sports, Celebrity, Historical and Music while also offering incredible Travel & Vacation Packages.  The auctions give your guests and those visiting your business a sense of satisfaction knowing they are helping a local charity while also having the ability to purchase an item that is not sold at retail anywhere.

If you are interested in having a “Paying It Forward Fundraising” Silent Auction at your business, or if you are a charity and would like for us to help you with an auction or auctions, contact us at www.BWUnlimited.com, we would love to help.

BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising is a North American Charity Fundraising leader in a “One Stop Shop” convenient setting.  We offer a wide array of services including a full scale Fundraising Event Planning service, “No Risk Auction Items” and now our newest platform “Paying It Forward Fundraising.”  There is no finer company across North America that offers so much for the 104 million charities.  To learn more or to ask for our help, contact us at www.BWUnlimited.com.

The importance of Venue: Why is the place you have your fundraiser important?

Before we start, I am intentionally making this vague as possible based on the fact that after I either write a blog or publish a video blog, I always get phone calls asking “Are you talking about us?”  Me being me, I always say “Why Yes Alice, I am talking about you but I didn’t say your name.”

Over the past several months, I have had the opportunity to attend several events or help several charities with their events where they either did not follow my advice or they had already selected the venue prior to speaking or hiring us. 

What most charities don't realize or refuse to believe is that hosting your fundraising event at a "Less Than" venue greatly reduces the success of your fundraising efforts.  Affluent or wealthy people will not want to go and large financial sponsors will not be interested solely based on where you are hosting it.  The venue speaks volumes about your charity and the guests.  

On one occasion, while speaking to people in the crowd, they complained about the bathroom toilets not flushing or the lines to get food were entirely too long.  They were right, because I myself stood in the line for 10 minutes then decided I would come back later after everyone got their dinners.  The acoustics were absolutely horrible, not understanding a word anyone said on the microphone, the lighting was horrible and the food, well it was ok at best (and that is being generous). 

This seems to be a trend though.  Charities, especially the smaller ones, do not understand the absolute importance of the “Place” (aka Venue) where they have their event.  I’m tired of hearing “People that are here won’t pay an additional $10.00 or $20.00 for a better place.”  That is entirely false.  The people at the fundraising event that are there won’t pay the additional $10.00 or $20.00 for the place they are currently at – BUT they most certainly will at a much nicer venue.  It’s worth it and they know that.

Now how does a bad “Place/Venue” affect spending?  People come there, the place is bad, the food is ok but nothing special…do you think they are ready to open their wallets?  No, they tend to feel robbed because they paid for their ticket and because the Venue is bad, they will always feel “I spent enough.” 

A bad venue shuts them down mentally even before the fundraising begins.

In the reverse, do you know why a very nice venue promotes higher spending?  The answer is in the question.  I have personally been to many of the best steakhouses in the country and paid ridiculous amounts of money for a meal and especially the steak.  I’m here to tell you, the steak at the “Texas Roadhouse” or a similar restaurant is just as good and much less expensive. 

Why do people pay more?  Because of the venue.  The “Ambience” demands a higher price, people are willing to pay more. 

If the place is nice and clean, the lighting is great, the food is great, there are no lines for food, the sound is great…the staff is professional…people automatically respond at a much higher level.

The proof is always very easy.  I will often ask the client what their “Net” or Profit was at the “Less than” venue – I will always hear a very small number.  Every time they argue against moving to a nicer venue, I point at their “Net.” 

To prove this to you – how many guests came to your last event?  Let’s say 300 people for this example.  What was your “Net” (Don’t lie because you’re only lying to yourself here)?  Do you know the national norm for successful fundraising begins at $100.00 a head, “Net”?  That means if you had 300 people, you should have made at the very least, $30,000.00.  Did you?  Were you close at least?   No?  Well, its time to make changes, most important is to find a better Venue.  People will pay more for a nicer place, you already know that though.  On your wedding anniversary, do you go to McDonalds or to a nice restaurant?  

What a nice venue allows you, as the charity, to do is to put more margin (Profit) on the ticket price because the venue is much better.  A much nicer menu with much better food will dictate the amount of profit you will ultimately make.  Plus the presentation of everything will impress your guests.  What's the old saying "The quickest way to a mans heart is through his stomach" - the same holds true to the quickest way to his or her wallet is to take care of their appetites.  Give them a great menu and drinks in a very nice place and they will be much more apt to spend or donate more to your charity.  I'm not guessing this, I'm telling you it's fact!!!

Take a leap of faith and try it…you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about. 

We, BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising, would love to help you plan your next fundraising event.  BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising it a leading charity fundraising company in North America and the only full scale Charity Fundraising Event planning company in the world.  Contact us at www.BWUnlimited.com.

Charity Donated Items - Why donated items are not successful - www.BWUnl...

COUNTERFEIT ALERT: Charity Autograph Counterfeiter revealed and reported by “Inside Edition.”

What does “Autograph Authenticity” mean to you?  A lesson for Charity Fundraisers.  Why am I writing this?  Because we want to protect you - teach you and your charity.  Do we want to drive more business to us - of course BUT...the truth of the matter is, revealing that there are counterfeiters out there may drive people away.  But at least I'll be able to sleep at night.  

Unfortunately, like everywhere, there are a few companies who are documented Autograph Counterfeiters and one of which, was actually the subject of an “Inside Edition” story.  This company, located on the east coast, has been providing autographed items but in this case, an autographed Country Music Legends Guitar, for many years and also has a company providing very similar items.  The company which was the target of the investigation, had provided what was said to be a “Country Music Legends autographed Guitar.” 

Inside Edition investigators posed as a charity and ordered many guitars such as Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd and of course, the Country Music Legends guitar.  However, the investigation revealed that one of the autographs was Tammy Wynette.  Unfortunately, Tammy Wynette died in 1998 but the guitar was made in 2013.  Ms. Wynette (as said by the reporter) would have had to come back from the dead to sign the guitar.  The investigation revealed that all the guitars they received were counterfeit autographs. 

If you would like to watch the story – here is the link:

https://www.insideedition.com/videos/3420-watch-real-or-fake-rock-and-roll-memorabilia-investigation

However, these counterfeiters aren’t stupid – the items come with a Certificate of Authenticity verifying that they are real.  

Do you think they care that they are scamming and stealing from a charity?

The company in question then said there is no real way to prove that an autograph is real - BullShi@t !!!   All the guitars were returned by the company, however, charities are still utilizing the items.

I hear you “Why aren’t they going to jail?”  “Why isn’t anyone doing anything about it?”  I hear you and believe me, I’ve been screaming the same thing for years.  But I am going to hopefully educate you and hopefully you pass the word around throughout the charity world.

Why do these companies routinely change their names and web addresses?  Seriously, because they are hiding.  They have had many different names…all it takes is a little searching on the Google and you’ll see. 

Ask those companies if they have photo's of the items being signed and who the authenticators are?  Are they the standards in the Memorabilia World such as JSA, PSA/DNA, Becket or Steiner?  No?   Ruuuuuuuuuuuunnnnn !!!!

-----------------------------

REALITY:

How to protect yourself and your charity by spotting a Fake.  Yes – authentic autographed guitars do exist but if they are truly authentic, not only are they incredibly expensive but they are authenticated by “Authentic Authenticators” and come with either a photograph or video of the person actually autographing the item.

I’ve heard the argument “Well it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity” – the reality is, anyone can also produce a certificate of authenticity but the reality and the real question is – “Who is the authenticator?”  Real or “Authentic Authenticators” have a track record and are widely known in the autograph industry such as JSA, PSA/DNA, Beckett and Steiner.  However, you should understand that all counterfeiters will provide a “Fake” Certificate of Authenticity just to cover their tracks.

Here is reality – these companies carry autographed items which no one has other than themselves or they have items which you may feel are acceptably expensive such as a Muhammed Ali autographed Boxing Glove for $1,000.00.  The reality is – he died many years ago and several years prior to his death, he could not write.  His authentic autographed boxing gloves are wholesaling for $3,000.00 or more.  Plus they are extremely hard to find.   Anyone who has passed away, their autographs are extremely rare and if you do find them – well, be prepared to pay a hefty price. 

Lebron James, Tom Brady, Michael Jordan, Derek Jeter and iconic athlete’s such as they are – their autographs are EXTREMELY expensive and that is why – many of us don’t carry them.  They are mainly sold through a retail setting. 

ANOTHER POINT:  Don’t believe the story “They are signing them at a lower price because they are meant for charities” – Bull.  They could care less.  They want to be paid and that’s it.  Our company does 100’s of signings with athletes and they know who we are – “Pay me please.”

Ask yourself this?  Why doesn’t this company sell these items in a retail setting?  If you have checked the internet to see if you can find their items with other dealers other than the two (2) companies who are documented forgers, why are they the only ones who carry them? 

Another tip that will help you – Look at the autographs, do they appear all the same, signed with the same pen and appear very similar?  Let’s take for instance this authentic Rolling Stones autographed Guitar.  Understand – IT’S REAL – but the consignment price is nearly $15,000.00.  Notice how messy the autographs are?  Notice they don’t look similar or signed with the same pen?

The reality is ladies and gentlemen – many of you want to believe the fakes are real and honestly, don’t care if you are passing these frauds along.  Do you know that you are then a part of a criminal conspiracy?  

“All that Glitters is not Gold” – let your gut and your conscience be your guide.  Do you want your charity featured on Inside Edition or some other investigative TV Show like 60 Minutes?  I doubt it.

--------------------------------------

Our Guarantee:

BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising’s guarantee is simply this – EVERYTHING autographed we carry is 100% authentic – PERIOD.  If you want to show our items to other authenticators, please be our guests.  We don’t have life time guarantee’s – why?  Because our items are REAL – why guarantee them if they are real?

How does BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising have 100's and 1,000's of photo's with celebrities and athletes, standing with them, video's and photo's of them signing the items but the other companies don't?  Well that's a CLUE or a major HINT.  RUN!!!

When you go on our website, why don’t we have pictures of all of our items shown for you to reserve?  Because it’s impossible.  Authentic autographed items sell quick – We, because our items are real, don’t have an unending supply of items.  Why?  Because we can’t pay someone to fake the autograph. 

Every single autograph we carry is authenticated by Authentic Authenticators who are the standards in the memorabilia world – JSA, PSA/DNA, Beckett etc.  Our items come with a photograph of the item being autographed.

If you are want REAL or AUTHENTIC, there is only ONE (1) PROVIDER to come to – BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising.  That is why we are TRUSTED by the White House, the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Charities, the NFL, the NHL, the MLB etc.

If we can help you or you would like to learn more about how to spot a counterfeit autograph, contact us at www.BWUnlimited.com, we would love to help.  Also, please test us - ask for photo's and who our Authenticators are - WE WOULD LOVE TO SHOW YOU!!!

Is it time to see your Doctor? Are you suffering from “Acute Fundraising Delirium” and stuck in a Fundraising Rut?

Recently, my team and I met with a charity who is asking for our help.  We are always humbled when we are asked so meeting with them was our pleasure.  However, after speaking with them at length, I soon realized that trying to get them to change their unsuccessful methods was going to be difficult.  In fact, one of the member who we met with pulled me aside and said “Don’t even try getting them to change, you’re fighting a losing battle.”  So the question remained, so how are we supposed to help them if they refuse to change?

So in order to help you, the reader of this Blog, here are some signs and symptoms that will help you to determine if its time to see a Fundraising Doctor:

“Stuck in Rut” Symptoms:

#1 – Are you willing to change the place or venue where you are holding your event?   The

reason the venue is so important determines the level of spending your guests will be comfortable with.  Unfortunately, many unsuccessful charities will choose a low cost venue because of their belief that it will put more money or profit in their pocket.  Sadly, this is not the case – What charities like these do not know is that by choosing a venue which is cheaper – the venue is cheaper for a reason.  Potential guests who enjoy a fantastic night out will never attend an event which is “Less than.”  Affluent people or “Wealthy” potential guests will never attend because if they are going to spend a night out, they want to go somewhere nice.

#2 – Do you keep your ticket price low thinking that it will attract more guests?  Many believe this but in reality what happens is, by lowering your ticket costs, your guests will be more than likely to attend…eat, drink and leave without ever bidding on anything or donating in anyway.

#3 – Are you still utilizing old fundraising methods to raise money?  Are you still doing 50/50 raffles, Wheels of any type or still filling your Silent and Live Auction with donated items?  If you are, you are using very old ways to raise money which have been beat to death.  Of course people love these raffles and the reason is, everyone loves to win money.  Do you know how profitable these raffles are?  How much work does it take to get the prizes and what is pay off?  Understand these raffles have been used for years. 

#4 – Do you believe that your charity should use only donated items in your fundraising event?  Are you and your charity convinced the “Way to go” is to only utilize donated items in your live and silent auction?  Unfortunately, its fact that donated items are only bringing 1/8 to 1/4 of their retail price in Silent & Live Auctions across North America.  The reason is honest and simple but are you willing to listen and be open minded?  The reason that donated items do so poorly is for three (3) reasons:  1 – Your guests are local people, attending a local event with items donated by local businesses.  If they wanted those items, they would have gone and bought them themselves.  2 – Today, businesses are bombarded by charities asking for donations.  Each charity believes that they are the only one asking, however, every single local charity has asked the same business owner.  The business owner has to be concerned about keeping their lights on.  If they do donate, they donate something they can afford to get rid of and that isn’t selling in their stores.  3 – Many charities believe Gift Cards and Gift Certificates are incredible auction items but ask yourself this…how many times have you purchased a gift card for yourself at face value – OR – How many Gift Baskets did you give away to your family or friends for the holidays?  The answer to both is none.  Understand this – EVERYONE is looking for a deal.  Yes they will purchase your donations but at an extremely low cost.  Rarely will any pass 50% of their retail cost.  Have you thought about how that would negatively affect the donor if he or she found out their donation did so poorly?  Do you think they would donate again?

#5 – What was the “Net” or Profit from your last event?  Do you know what your event “Netted”?  Now be honest with yourself like so many who are suffering are – what was your “Net Profit” which means how much after paying the bills did you walk away with, not your “Gross”….your “Net”?  How many guests did you have at your event?  Here is how you can tell if your suffering – The “National Norm”, which is just the beginning of successful fundraising, for successful fundraising is $100.00 a head, net.  So what that means is for every guest who paid for a ticket, that person equals $100.00.  So if you had 500 people, you should at the very least had a “Net” of $50,000.00.  Did you?  If you didn’t, oh boy, you’re really sick.

#6 – Do you have an unqualified or inexperienced person in charge of planning and hosting your fundraiser?  Do you have a volunteer or someone on your staff who only plans one event for you a year?  Are they proficient and know the current fundraising trends?  If your answer is yes…well, your suffering.

If you answered yes to any of these questions, seek the advice of your fundraising Doctor soon, call today and schedule an appointment.  If you answered yes to two (2) or more, you are suffering from “Acute Fundraising Delirium.”  Good news though, there is a cure…it may be painful, but you will definitely be cured.

How to Fight and Cure “Acute Fundraising Delirium.” 

First, you should understand you are not alone so don’t be ashamed.  Many charities are suffering and need help but to prideful to ask.  So here is the way to cure what ails you.  But before I give you the cure, here are some points to understand so that you won’t come down with it again.

The Venue you host your event in is vitally, VITALLY important to your ultimate success.  People love to go to a very nice place with great food.  Affluent or Wealthy people like to be around others who have the same financial status…it’s a known fact.  About your ticket, your ticket price should be high enough to “Ward Off” the grazers, meaning people who are coming just to eat and drink and leave.  The reality is “a cheap ticket gets you cheap people.”   Your ticket price should be high enough in order to be a “Financial Hurdle.”  If they can pay the ticket price which you are profiting from, then they can also afford to donate or bid on items.  In your fundraising event, you should be using four (4) fundraising platforms – Live Auction, Silent Auction, Raffles and a direct ask for financial donations.  With raffles, donated items are perfect for this platform and will bring 10 times their retail because everyone likes to win.  Do not do raffles where you are EVER giving money away as a prize or raffles that take too long to play.  Your donations are perfect for raffles but you should acquire consignment items for your Live & Silent Auction because people like exciting things such as Travel Packages, Experiences, Hard to Find Memorabilia etc.  These are incredibly profitable if used correctly and the reserve or cost is increase at least 20% to ensure you profit 100% of the time.  Your charities “Net” should equal the national successful fundraising norm of $100.00 a head “Net” proceeds.  There are methods to ensure you match this on your next event.  If you have a volunteer or inexperienced person in charge of your fundraiser, don’t fall for the “Oh I’ve held several events and I’ve helped with many” plea – because you don’t know if the events they were a part of were successful.  You need to find someone who is an expert fundraiser.  There is an old saying that goes like this “If you think hiring a professional is expensive, wait till you hire an amateur.”  Oh so very true…

The CURE

BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising is North America’s #1 charity fundraising firm in a “One Stop Shop” convenient setting.  BW can help you with everything.  BW is the fundraisers for New York Cities and Washington D.C.’s elite as well as professional athletes and celebrities while also helping the White House, the Armed Forces charities, the NFL / MLB & NHL with their fundraising along with 1,000’s of charities each year.  We pride ourselves at normally raising 1.5 to 3.5 times the national norm while also helping our clients host impressive, professional events.  BW also proudly has the largest inventory of consignment items such as Charity Travel Packages, 100% authentic autographed items, Décor and beautiful jewelry which is all provided at absolutely “NO RISK” to charities across North America.  BW works with charities large and small while specializing in helping small groups grow their fundraising to incredibly successful levels.  If you are suffering and need a doctor, there is only one Doctor to call to cure your problems, BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising at 443.206.6121 or go to our website at www.BWUnlimited.com.

TESTIMONIAL: Jacob Howell from CSI Athletics in Idaho - www.BWUnlimited...

The face of Charity Event Fundraising has changed

Many don’t realize that the face of fundraising has drastically changed.  Many charities still continue to host their fundraising events as if it was still in the 1990’s.  However, with society changing as well as the amount of charities rising across the nation to over 104 Million registered U.S. Non Profits, in order to get people’s attention and ultimately, financial donations and support – Charity Fundraising, especially Event Fundraising has had to change and evolve.

In the 90’s, there were fewer charities.  This was the era of the Mortgage Boom with money flowing everywhere.  Many affluent (aka Rich) people used charitable donations for tax breaks.  However, as the Mortgage Bubble exploded which then in turn caused the great recession – many charities closed their doors based on charitable donations decreasing rapidly.

Then society changed, using the famous quote from John F. Kennedy “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country” – that message became the direct opposite in regard to charitable fundraising. 

We became a “What can you do for me” society.  Affluent people began to be selective in regard to who they were going to donate to.  In regard to Fundraising Events, a charity now had to truly put on a show in order to get the attention of potential donors.  If you have noticed, there are some incredible productions going on across North America in regard to Gala’s and other charity events.  As

an example, Washington D.C.’s “Fight Night.”  The venue is a black tie Gala based around boxing and UFC.  There is a Ring in the center of the venue and during the night, various fights occur – all in an effort to raise money.

Why do they go to these extremes?  To attract the wealthy and elite from Washington D.C. and throughout the region.  This event raises many millions but the production is incredible. 

The days of hosting a successful fundraiser at the local Fire Department or lesser venue are long gone.  Also, charities need to truly step up their “Fundraising Game.”  They cannot repeat the “Same ole, Same ole” when it comes to raising dollars to fuel their mission.  They cannot use old methods to attract and entertain new supporters and ultimately large scale donors.

Everyone wants to says and asks “We don’t know how to get Financial Sponsors, can you help us?”  Of course I can help, but first you must understand the “Why” you are having the problem. 

I will address all the important facts on why the face of charity fundraising has changed and the remedy as well as the problem with the solution  on how to attract large scale financial sponsors as well as affluent donors:

#1 – Financial Sponsors – As addressed above, the competition has risen

drastically amongst charities.  When someone opens a charity, they truly believe that they are an “Island amongst themselves” and as soon as they open their doors; money is going to flood in.  However, this does not occur.  They assume that everyone they approach will lay out large sums of money to help – again, this does not occur.  They speak to companies who are not interested.

      Reason:  You must understand, that businesses are approached daily by numerous charities wanting donations.  The business must pick and choose who they support and ultimately donate to.  If they gave to everyone, they would soon be out of business.  Charities will use the age old saying “It’s tax deductible” however, with the new tax rulings, only 30% of their donations are now deductible.

     Remedy:  Before going out looking for donations, do you understand the “Reality” of what you are asking and do you understand, respect and know what the sponsors want in return?  Here is the reality, they will use their “Marketing Dollars” to donate to you.  They want to be “Marketed” at your event, they will want to know where your event is occurring and how many guests you will have.  Why do you ask is this important?  Because the larger the crowd, the more people will see their “Brand” or “Business Name.”   They want “Drivers.”  What is a “Driver”?   A “Driver” is something that will drive people into their businesses – advertisement.  They want “Bang for their Buck.”  Are you prepared to give that to them?  The problem is something they all have experienced; most charities take their money or their donated items and don’t care about marketing the individual businesses who donate. They just take the money and they are gone.  Before you start asking for Financial Donations, prepare a flyer or some type of packet which offers Sponsors and Donors a marketing plan at your event.  If you are unaware, go to someone who could possibly donate and ask them what they would want in return.  Just remember, your success hinges on offering the Sponsor something in return for their investment.  Would you invest your hard earned money if you were not guaranteed a return?  Or would you just throw it away – your mission statement no longer is sufficient.

#2 – Guest Count at your Event – In a space such as the charity world, you must understand that competition is stiff.  Let’s take for example these states and large cities:

a.     Massachusetts - 41,686 results found

-         Boston - 6,952 results found

b.     New York - 94,882 results found

-         New York City - 22,995 results found

c.      Maryland - 39,008 results found

-         Baltimore - 6,868 results found

-         Washington DC - 14,172 results found

d.     Florida - 97,472 results found

-         8,805 results found

e.     Texas - 125,856 results found

As you can see from the results, taken directly from the website www.GuideStar.org, the competition is incredible.  Each weekend, charities in these areas are hosting fundraising events.  The demand is intense prompting the citizens to ask “Which one should we go to?” 

Unfortunately, this is a “What can you do for me?” society.  They will ultimately pick the event which has the highest appeal. 

            Reason:  Many charities use the approach “If we make our event as cheap as possible, saving us as much money as possible, while keeping our ticket prices as low as possible, we will get a much higher guest count and we can charge a fairly good ticket price putting more money in our pockets.”  They look for cheap venues, donated food and drinks, utilize donated items only and their fundraising platforms are old and tired.  Since their tickets are cheap, they only attract people who can afford a lesser priced ticket cost.  Since they are having their event at a “Lesser Venue,” again they attract people who feel comfortable there and not affluent guests.  Since they are having a cheap ticket, at a “Lesser Venue”, Sponsors will not be interested.  Filling a room with people who can only afford a cheap ticket – OR – selling your tickets cheap does NOT equal a higher profit return, in fact, it does the exact opposite.  Charities raise less money because they are not attracting the right crowd. 

            Remedy:  Charities must ask themselves this question – is their event a “Friend-Raiser” or a “Fundraiser”?  If it’s a “Friend-Raiser” then by all means, have an event at a lesser venue with a cheap ticket to gain support from your community.  However, if it’s a “Fundraiser”, there are two (2) keys to attract the right guests, donors and sponsors. 

a.     Venue – The venue is vital in attracting the right crowd.  People who can afford to donate, will only want to come to a nice place.  They will be not attracted to a lesser venue.  Furthermore, affluent people will be attracted to the venue based on how nice it is.  It’s the exact same reason why affluent people prefer Ruth Chris Steakhouse over McDonalds.

b.     Menu – The menu is secondary to the Venue however, because of the mentality of “What can you do for me?”, people will want to know what does my ticket price include?  The ticket price also includes the venue.  They want good food and enough of it.  They do not want Ladies Auxiliary Food or a “Donated Pot Luck” buffet.  People do not want a small piece of chicken, with a scoop of mashed potatoes and a few green beans. 

Now, do you want to know what guarantees your event will be a success?  This will probably be a hard pill to swallow, but it’s the “Cornerstone” guaranteeing success.  Any guesses?

a.     Ticket Price Guarantees Success – Putting it bluntly and using a common statement I make “A Cheap Ticket gets your Cheap People.”   The price of the ticket guarantees success and here is why.  The ticket price has to be high enough to push away people who cannot afford to donate to you.  Now as “Crass” as the seems, it’s reality.  Think about it, if someone buys a ticket, comes to your event, eats the food, has several drinks but does not donate through any of your fundraising platforms, does this benefit you?  No not at all.  I call this type of person a “Grazer.”  They are only coming to eat and drink and that’s it.

b.     The ticket price must be a “Financial Hurdle” – Did you know that on many online ticketing sales platforms, there is a prompt that says “Tickets under $150.00.”  Now why is that?  Because affluent people do not want to go to events under $150.00…they want to hang out with like-minded people.  Your ticket price must be high enough to push away people who can afford to donate while “Pre-Qualifying” your guests to see if they can donate to you.  If they can afford your ticket, they can donate.  But, don’t skimp on the meal just to put more money in your charities pocket – give them something they will love.  Take care of them and they will take care of you.

#3 – Donated Items vs. Consignment items – Many smaller charities feel that if they get all the items donated for their event, they will keep 100% of the profit.  But, what the charity does not realize or take into account is that the business had been approached 10 times that day asking for the same thing by other charities in the area.  Each charity feels they are the most important and gives them the same line “It’s Tax Deductible.”  As business owners, they don’t want to be rude but they have to pay the bills and keep their lights on.  They cannot possibly donate to everyone.  So if they do donate, its something which has not been selling in their stores or a “Gift Card” which draws people into their business which allows them to “Upsell” them on other products.  However, here is reality so gear up.   

Reason:  You may not agree with this, but it’s reality.

a.     Donated Items - When you approach a business and ask for a donation, they have a decision to make – Yes or No, its honestly that simple.  If you send out letters, its easy for them to just throw it away.  If you send out emails, it’s easy to hit Delete.  If they donate, charities believe that their guests will pay full retail for the item or items.  The reality is – donated items are only bringing 1/8^th to 1/4 of retail.  People are looking for a “Deal.”  Charities often receive Gift Cards as a donation but ask yourself this “Have you ever bought a Gift Card for yourself?”  No.  Another common item we see at all fundraising events are “Gift Baskets.”  However, again, ask yourself this “How many Gift Baskets did you give to your family or friends for the holidays?”  None.  Everyone is looking for a “Deal” – they will buy your items but for pennies on the dollar.  Furthermore, your event will look like a “Yard Sale.” 

Remember this saying – “It’s local people, attending your local event, with items donated by Local Businesses – if they wanted that stuff, they would have went and bought it themselves.”  They will buy it, but will want to pay minimal for it.

Does this truly benefit your charity?  Does it hurt the donor if the item they donated sells for next to nothing?  If the donor finds out, do you think they will donate again?

b.     Consignment Items – Many people think “Why should I pay for something when we can use donations which we keep 100% of?” Go back and read the paragraphs above for the answer.  Do you think if there is a $50.00 Gift Card that people will pay anything near that – OR – full retail…or above it?  Hell No!!!  You need items that will attract people to your event and that are extremely hard to find, exciting and that everyone wants but never sees.  This creates excitement and prompts high bidding.   Here is a question “Who is really paying for the items – You or the Winning Bidder?”  The Winning Bidder and you are getting FREE MONEY from the profit.

Remedy:  First understand the reality of donated items and how they perform in charity auctions.  Then understand the need for consignment items while also understanding how to correctly use them.  Think about this – what event will people want to attend – the one with gift baskets and gift certificates or the one with Travel Packages to far off Beach Destinations, autographed items and Jewelry?  Donated items certainly have a place in your fundraising event but they must be used in a way that absolutely GUARANTEES success.  Secondly, understand that when you use consignment items, you are getting “FREE MONEY.”  Plus people will be excited about your offerings. 

Summary: 

Ladies and Gentlemen – the face of fundraising has changed.  You have to have a fresh new approach while keeping an open mind on what are the current trends.  People like “Exciting”, they love a nice place to go to with good food.  They like great items to bid on, they like a well-produced event.  No one likes “Boring.”  Financial Sponsors are drawn to these types of events due to the marketing potential.  There are ways to absolutely ensure that your event will be successful BUT you have to be open minded enough to allow for these changes or you will be caught on the fundraising Hamster Wheel with little return.

BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising can and will absolutely ensure that you and your event is incredibly successful both financially and also through your guests experience.  BW Unlimited understands how to best utilize donated items to ensure that you receive 10 times the retail price instead of 1/8^th to 1/4 through various means in your fundraising event.  Remember, you live a full time life with a full time job and full time commitments and a full time family – are you up on all the current fundraising trends and successful tactics?  Call in the Big Guns – BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising will knock it out of the ballpark for you. 

BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising is a North American Charity Fundraising Leader in a convenient “One Stop Shop” setting.  We can help you and your charity with everything from beginning to end – check out our website at www.BWUnlimited.com to find out more.

Contact us at www.BWUnlimited.com, email George at George@bwunlimited.com or call at 443.206.6121, we would love to help you.