Episode 31: Fundraising Event Trends
About The Episode
This week on The Fundraising Elevator benefit auctioneer Dale Johannes returns to discuss the evolving landscape of fundraising events in 2024, emphasizing the importance of innovation, storytelling, and mission alignment in maximizing donor engagement and impact.
Show Notes
Trends in Fundraising Events: Dale shares his observations on the current trends in fundraising events. He emphasizes the “less is more” approach, focusing on tighter programs and impactful storytelling to engage donors. Generational shifts in giving preferences are also influencing fundraising strategies, with millennials focusing more on impact-driven giving.
Auction Trends: Dale reflects on the transformations in auction dynamics, moving away from lengthy catalogs to more concise, impactful packages. Dale advocates for shorter, more focused auctions, suggesting no more than eight packages to maintain audience engagement and maximize results.
Engaging Packages: The hosts explore diverse auction packages, from exclusive dinners to travel experiences and community-oriented events, noting that these popular packages cater to the desire for unique experiences rather than material items. They stress the value of unique experiences tied to the organization’s mission, fostering deeper donor connections.
Paddle Raises: Paddle raises emerge as a powerful fundraising tool, offering donors the opportunity to contribute to mission-aligned initiatives. Dale shares examples of successful paddle raises, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and mission integration and avoiding overly restrictive funding allocations.
Group Dynamics and Generosity: The hosts discuss the resurgence of community-driven generosity, fueled by a desire for connection and agency amidst global challenges. They highlight the role of events in fostering community engagement and driving philanthropic impact.
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About the Guests
Dale Johannes is an actor, fundraising host and auctioneer. He has been helping nonprofits reach fundraising goals now for over 19 years. Dale has worked as an actor in New York, then in the field of HIV for 25 years while also supporting community-based organizations
When he isn’t working nationally, helping nonprofits reach their fundraising goals with his company DC AUCTIONS through televised, virtual or live events, he can be found on the golf course, traveling with his family or performing at a local theater in Portland, Oregon.
Resources
Upcoming Episode
In the next episode, join hosts Kristin and Sam as they talk to benefit auctioneer Kelly Russell about fundraising auctions.
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