Communication is Key

An engaged supporter at People You Should Know

Community Action had a record-breaking People You Should Know breakfast last week!

They attracted 325 supporters and raised more than $45,000 at the breakfast.

The twist: the event was free with no cost to attend.

How did they use the 'Raise More Money Model' to ensure success? How did they guarantee turnout and fundraising for an event that no one has paid to attend?

It's not as difficult as you might think. There are two key strategies that Community Action employed that lead to their success:

1. They turned their strongest supporters into Table Hosts.
Your supporters are already your biggest cheerleaders. Tap into their passion, and ask your major donors, board members and volunteers to go one step further by reaching out to their personal networks and filling a table at your event.

People give to people, and in particular, to people they have a relationship with. People showed up and supported Community Action because of who invited them to attend—this level of peer-to-peer accountability really helps drive fundraising to your goal and beyond.

2. They regularly communicated with attendees beforehand.
Whether it was from Community Action or their table host, guests received multiple communications including a printed invite and emails leading up to the event. This reminded them of the important details (time, date, location), but also teased out the pieces of the breakfast that were unique and exciting, such as their speakers and program.

If you regularly communicate with your guests, you make sure they understand both the importance of attending your event and supporting your organization's work.

Jerralynn Ness, Community Action's Executive Director

In the end, Community Action saw such great success because they maximized the potential of their existing relationships while at the same time cultivating new and meaningful ones.

Congratulations on a fantastic event!