Join A.J. Steinberg, a seasoned fundraiser and event producer, as she unveils her distinctive approach to nonprofit event planning. A.J. underscores the significance of events as pivotal moments to foster community and build affinity for organizations. She delves into the post-event stewardship process, stressing the necessity of personalized thank-you messages and consistent follow-up communication.

A.J. also emphasizes the importance of capturing attendee information to expand mailing lists and cultivate potential donor relationships. She shares innovative strategies for engaging younger donors and the concept of "friendraiser" events to build a network of supporters.

One major challenge discussed is filling sponsor tables. A.J. suggests an inventive solution: offering sponsors the option to gift their tables back to VIPs or families of honorees, adding value and enhancing the event experience.

Don’t miss out on A.J.’s expert tips and transformative ideas that could elevate your next event from ordinary to extraordinary!

Takeaways

• Events are an opportunity to build affinity and community for the organization.
• Personalized thank-you messages and follow-up communication are crucial for post-event stewardship.
• Capturing names and emails at events helps expand the organization's mailing list and build relationships with potential donors.
• Engaging younger donors through friendraiser events can help establish long-term relationships.
• Offering the option for sponsors to gift back their tables can help fill sponsor tables and avoid empty seats. Consider gifting back sponsorships to those who may not be able to afford them
• The OneGo Foundation provides critical gap funding for first responders
• Auctions can be an entry point for new donors and a way to engage attendees
• Event organizers should be open to trying new strategies and adapting their events
• Sequencing and timing are crucial in creating successful fundraising events

Main Topics

• 01:10 Building Affinity and Community through Events
• 03:33 Capturing Names and Emails for Relationship Building
• 06:03 Engaging Younger Donors through Friendraiser Events
• 08:32 Filling Sponsor Tables with Strategic Onboarding
• 20:47 The Impact of the OneGo Foundation: Supporting First Responders
• 23:11 The Evolving Role of Auctions in Fundraising Events
• 29:10 Embracing Change: Trying New Strategies for Success
• 31:02 Sequencing and Timing: Keys to a Successful Fundraising Event

Episode Links:

https://www.queenbeefundraising.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajsteinbergproductions/

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