Tips to Develop a Theme or Gimmick for a Fundraiser

I’m a big believer in putting a creative twist on fundraising these days. Especially in the recent past, non-profit organizations are fighting for a smaller pool of money and it helps to give people a fresh, unique reason to come out and support you.

For the Boys & Girls Club Fundraiser I styled, we took spring, the team’s assigned color YELLOW and the fact that Derby season is just around the corner and chose to “Place Our Bets” on Team Jacqueline + Laylaa.

This worked for a couple of reasons.

For one thing, it peaked the curiosity of guests who aren’t used to attending Derby parties this early in the year and second, it left people wondering what the Kentucky Derby had to do with raising money for the Boys & Girls Club. The only way to find out was to attend.

Besides putting a unique spin on your fundraiser, you may even attract attention from consumers and even media outlets who are fans or supporters of your "gimmick". The more free press you can get, the more success you are guaranteed! And really, when raising money for a fundraiser the end count of donations is important, but spreading knowledge about your cause is just as important for the future of the organization.

Tips to Develop a Theme or “Gimmick” for a Fundraiser

Who are the funds benefiting and is there a blatant theme idea that relates to the person/organization?

What does the organization do or support? Is there a fundraising activity that can be used at the event that falls in line with what the group’s efforts are? Think outside the box for event ideas!

Think of creative names for night-of activities, raffles, auction items and even food. Capitalize on opportunities to tie your theme into the party.

Use creative verbiage on the invitation and brand your theme well, using it throughout all of the PR materials. Lure people in with creative theme-related lingo. If you need to, make up your own words! As long as they are extremely witty or giggle inducing, we say go for it!

Engage them with witty/unique terminology that makes them want to attend the event just to see what it’s all about. Add fun embellishments or images to make the event seem more appealing.