When staging a fundraising event you’ve got specific goals which fuel each other; educate, entertain and earn.

Your donors already embrace a philanthropic spirit— they’re invested in your cause. You share common goals, so seize the opportunity to strengthen their commitment. Believe it or not, even a dressed-to-the-nines-champagne-and-caviar gala can be a low-pressure, less formal sandbox to castle-build with your benefactors—schmooze, and schelebrate. Then, when the last of the roast beef has been carved and the final oyster, Rockefeller’d, the stage is set. It’s time to get down to the business we call “show.” With the metaphorical curtain up, the act opens. Donors are immediately swept into the spotlight; you’ve cast them as co-stars toward the fulfillment of your mission. By engaging your supporters in a unique way that applauds them, they’ve become an active part of your fundraising; you’ve granted them equal billing. They recognize that it’s dependent upon their contribution and participation. Your success is theirsuccess. They’ll work towards it, and have a good time to boot. So even if the Prime Rib isn’t… their enjoyment is forever connected to the organization.

It’s letting human emotions work for you.