Fundraising has become an integral part of our society and non-profit groups are continually searching for new and unique ways of raising money. There are a multitude of fundraising products on the market and silent auctions seem to be a preferred fundraising event.
Silent and live auctions are a great opportunity to make tremendous profit with little or no costs involved. The key element is to make money - not spend money - and get everything donated. For example, a great donation is a signed sports jersey - with passionate fans in the audience you have a license to print money!
A profitable auction, or any other fundraising endeavor, depends on how well the event is organized. The canvassing and collection of auction items is not difficult, but it does require a certain amount of discipline and structure. This is where organizational skills come in handy - an appropriate introduction letter and auction donation contract is imperative. In reality, it makes no difference whether the fundraiser is a potluck dinner in the school gymnasium or a black tie affair at the golf & country club - the same principles and organizational skills apply to all silent auction events.
Organizing such events need not be complicated, however, it is important to have a Chair who will oversee every aspect of the fundraiser and ensure everything is on track and running smoothly. The proper set up of auction tables, choice of emcee, venue selection and check-in/cash-out procedures are a few topics that require special consideration and organization.
Volunteers are often hard to acquire, but once a core group has been assembled, it is important that the entire committee be organized. The Chair should hold frequent meetings to ensure volunteers are well informed and up to speed with their duties. A good rule of thumb is to lead by example! If the Chair is organized and has everything under control, a profitable silent auction will be the end result.