Specialized Areas

Want to Raise More Money? Start With a Better Plan

Stop Winging It: How Strategic Planning Drives Bigger Gala Results

Leave a Comment / Core Leadership, Specialized Areas /

Raising more money at your gala isn’t about luck, it’s about having a plan. In this article, Shannon walks through a practical approach to strategic revenue planning and demonstrates how small adjustments across multiple fundraising streams can lead to meaningful growth. From increasing live auction revenue and securing pre-committed gifts to rethinking silent auctions, strengthening sponsorships, and growing attendance, she shares ideas organizations can use to create a more intentional fundraising strategy. If your goal is to exceed last year’s results, this post offers a roadmap for identifying opportunities and building a stronger, more profitable event.

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Guests checking in at a nonprofit fundraising gala registration table while event staff assist and manage the flow of attendees.

“STAY IN YOUR LANE” or Should You? The Art of Being Observant

Leave a Comment / Specialized Areas, Technology /

Fundraising events involve multiple teams working together to create a seamless experience, but what happens when roles start to overlap? In this article, Shannon Eason breaks down the key responsibilities within a gala and explores the tension between “staying in your lane” and stepping in when something needs attention. Through real-world scenarios, she highlights how observation, communication, and respect for team structure can impact both guest experience and fundraising success. If you’ve ever questioned when to speak up or step back during an event, this post offers practical insight into navigating those moments with confidence.

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Participants enjoying an outdoor summer fundraising event with recreational activities.

Turning Summer Activities Into Fundraising Opportunities

Leave a Comment / Fundraising Strategies/Revenue Generators, Specialized Areas /

Summer fundraising events offer nonprofits a flexible way to engage donors outside of traditional galas. From obstacle runs and golf tournaments to fishing events and poker runs, these experiences combine fun, community, and meaningful revenue. With the right mix of sponsorships, games, and creative fundraising elements, summer events can attract new supporters and build momentum between major fundraisers. These ideas prove that fundraising doesn’t have to be formal to be effective. Sometimes, the best results come from getting outdoors.

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Guests participating in a casual friend-raiser fundraising event with games and social activities.

Why Friend-Raisers Belong in Your Fundraising Strategy

Leave a Comment / Emerging Trends, Specialized Areas /

Friend-Raisers offer nonprofits a flexible, engaging way to connect with younger supporters without replacing traditional fundraising events. Designed around fun, low-pressure giving, these events focus on awareness, education, and community, while still generating meaningful revenue. From creative golf outings to outdoor social experiences, Friend-Raisers can introduce new donors to your mission and build long-term engagement. When planned intentionally, they complement your gala strategy and help create a pipeline of future supporters who already feel connected.

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Engaged donors connecting at an intimate nonprofit fundraising gala

When Every Seat Matters

Leave a Comment / Marketing Event, Specialized Areas /

Not every supporter can be in the room, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be part of your success. This blog explores how intentional guest strategy, mission education, and personal connection can help organizations build high-impact galas, even with smaller attendance. From selecting the right guests to engaging supporters beyond the room, discover how every seat can carry purpose, momentum, and meaningful fundraising power.

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A donor participating in a fundraising moment, symbolizing how generosity supports both personal well-being and nonprofit missions

Four Ways Generosity is Good for Your Mission, and for You!

Leave a Comment / Core Leadership, Specialized Areas /

Generosity creates a ripple effect that benefits both nonprofits and the people who support them. In this post, Shannon highlights four research-backed ways giving improves well-being, strengthens social connections, and increases long-term engagement with your mission. Drawing from behavioral science and wellness research, this article explains why generosity isn’t just good for your organization; it’s good for your donors, too. A powerful reminder that giving back creates impact on both sides of the paddle.

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