Where Are All Those Volunteers?

Although most people’s intentions are good, it’s often difficult to find help when organizing a fundraiser. Let everyone in your organization know you are planning a fundraising event and indicate that you will require assistance. You will find that most people end up helping out in numerous ways, but first you have to get them into your clutches! I’ve been in a position where I have had very little or no help at all and pulled off the event on my own. If you are passionate about what you are doing, it can be achieved with very few people! If you already have a core group of volunteers, all you have to do is delegate, delegate, delegate! Your most valued assets are your volunteers. Always treat them with the respect they deserve.

Auction Items on Consignment

In the past, I have accepted auction items on consignment, although I do not highly recommend this idea. However! If the item is unusual, not easily obtainable, and has great potential to bring in good money―go ahead and offer it in your Live or Silent Auction. I once had a large, framed, signed “Tiger Woods” limited edition picture that was rare and hard to obtain. This piece was on consignment. After paying the owner his price, our organization did not make a lot of money off the picture, but the winning bidder went away very, very happy! In these cases, consignment items are definitely worth it! We like happy guests!

Gathering Silent Auction Items

Gather as many items as possible! Try to vary the costs with both high and low priced items so there is something in every price range. Try to find auction items that are different and/or unique. Make sure you have items that appeal to men, women and children. Auction items make great gifts for birthdays, Christmas and any other special occasion. People will pay far more for items if they are hard to obtain, unusual, or out of the ordinary! I had a “Power of Attorney” certificate up for bid in a silent auction and it went for $150. The woman who purchased the certificate was thrilled because she and her husband had been meaning to get around to that task for a long time. You never know what people need or what they will buy!

White Rock's Best Restaurant! Washington Avenue Grill

To date I have organized nine fundraisers for various organizations at the Washington Avenue Grill in White Rock, British Columbia. Brent Gray and his staff are very accommodating and the food is always great. If you live in the area or are visiting from afar, make sure you don't miss out on the fabulous ocean view from the Washington Avenue Grill!