The next generation of givers is already watching how generosity shows up in the world. Shannon shares insights on how nonprofits can intentionally include Generation Alpha in philanthropic experiences without compromising the purpose, flow, or fundraising goals of their gala.
Engaging Generation Alpha without compromising your adult guests’ experience.
Fundraising galas are meant to inspire generosity, strengthen relationships, and raise critical funds for your mission. But what about the next generation of givers? Generation Alpha, kids born between 2010 and 2024, includes little ones from newborns to 14-year-olds. Some organizations wonder: should children be part of a gala at all, and if so, how can they be included thoughtfully?
Even high-profile events like New York’s Met Gala don’t allow attendees under 18. Anna Wintour, chairperson and Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, puts it simply: “It’s not appropriate.” The lesson here is clear: adults attend for an experience, and your gala’s fundraising goals come first.
So, how do you balance adult-focused fundraising with teaching kids the value of giving and generosity?
Remember: Galas Are About Fundraising First
At the heart of every gala is one clear purpose: raising funds to support your mission and programs. While it’s tempting to think that selling tickets, even for children, directly contributes, the reality is a bit different.
For example, if your gala has 350 seats and a fundraising goal of $350,000, each seat carries an average value of $1,000 toward that goal. Paying the nominal ticket price for a child, often covering just dinner, venue, and décor, doesn’t move the fundraising needle.
The real impact comes from active giving during the event: live auctions, paddle raises, and Fund-A-Need (FAN) moments. These are the opportunities where donors translate their engagement and enthusiasm into tangible support for your cause.
Keeping this in mind ensures that your event design prioritizes what truly drives results, guest engagement, donor excitement, and giving moments that fund your mission.
Let’s break it down: the pros and cons of including Generation Alpha at your next gala and explore some creative ways to involve them meaningfully, without compromising the focus on giving. These strategies can help young attendees begin learning about philanthropy while keeping the event intentional and mission-driven.
The Pros of Including Generation Alpha
When done strategically, including children in your gala experience can have long-lasting benefits:
- Model generosity: Kids learn by observing. Seeing their parents give and support others teaches compassion and philanthropy.
- Family bonding: Attending together can strengthen parent-child relationships through shared meaningful experiences.
- Health and life benefits: Studies, such as those from the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, show that youth who volunteer are more likely to succeed academically, graduate, and participate in civic activities.
- No babysitter needed: Parents can attend events knowing their children are engaged and safe.
The Challenges to Consider
Including children in an adult-centered gala also has pitfalls:
- Content appropriateness: Some program elements, speeches, or fundraising activities may not be suitable for younger audiences.
- Adult expectations: Guests often view galas as a night off from childcare; children can disrupt the experience.
- Financial impact: Every child takes a seat, potentially reducing adult attendance from donors who may contribute more.
- Attention demands: Parents may be distracted caring for their children, while other guests may be disrupted by the unpredictability of kids.
Ways to Include Generation Alpha Without Disrupting Your Gala
You don’t need to exclude kids entirely to teach them about philanthropy. Here are some practical strategies:
- Volunteer roles before the event: Children can help sell raffle tickets, collect donations, or assist with prep work.
- Cocktail hour involvement: Let kids showcase their talents through a brief performance or presentation before the main program begins.
- Student participation: If the gala includes local schools or a junior board, students can help with live auction item previews, distribute hors d’oeuvres, or sell “Golden Tickets.” Once the social hour ends, children exit, leaving adult guests undisturbed.
- Alternate daytime events: Consider family-friendly volunteer opportunities like 5Ks, trivia events, or educational workshops tied to your mission.
- Children’s gala: If you want the full gala experience for kids, host a separate “Junior Gala” complete with fundraising activities, games, and mission-focused learning. Think candy-themed centerpieces, kid-friendly menus, and engaging activities to make the event exciting and memorable.
The Long-Term Impact
Introducing children to philanthropy early has remarkable benefits:
- Instills generosity, altruism, and responsibility
- Fosters respect, confidence, and ambition
- Encourages lifelong habits of volunteering and giving
Statistics show that a small weekly commitment (even one hour a week) of volunteering can reduce risky and destructive behaviors by 50%. The lessons kids learn at these events often extend far beyond the evening itself.
Guidelines for a Smooth Experience
Remember, etiquette matters. If an invitation does not include children, it’s not appropriate to bring them. And if children do attend, consider making a donation on their behalf to honor the value of their participation. This ensures that the experience is meaningful for everyone in attendance.
Every gala is unique, and every organization has different goals. If you want guidance on including kids without distracting from your mission, or just want to elevate the overall experience, book a 30-minute introductory call with Everything Gala. We’ll explore ways to design your gala so that every guest, young or old, feels engaged, inspired, and ready to support your mission.
written by…
Shannon Eason
CEO of Everything Gala &
International Auctioneer Champion
Shannon Eason, Founder and CEO of Everything Gala, is a dynamic and engaging force in the world of fundraising. As an International Auctioneer Champion, she’s mastered the art of captivating audiences—blending charisma, energy, and strategy to inspire generosity and help organizations crush their fundraising goals. A recognized expert in the field, Shannon has presented at workshops, seminars, and conferences from coast to coast, sharing her insights and passion for elevating fundraising events. Through Everything Gala, she partners with nonprofits, schools, and socially driven causes to turn purpose into powerful results.
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