Fund raising?

Question

Does any body have first hand knowledge of fund raising? Is it usual to spend more money in promotion than collecting the donations; should a small charity be spending moment on promotion in the hope of getting more back in donation?
Would any one be involved with a small private charity which is family run? If not, why not?

Answer 1

You shouldn't spend more money on promotion than is collected. Many of the better charities try to keep Administrative and Promotional expenses down to only 10% - 15% and the remainder going towards the cause.

I have heard stories about some gala's and other socalite events costing much more than they bring in.

A small family run charity can be okay, as long as they are not milking the charity to live off of - which could be the case. Even if they get a non-profit status, they could pay themselves salaries that eat up the donations. Ask to see the financial statements. A good charity will have full transparancy w/ the finanacials.

Answer 2

I've been involved in small fund raisers for several years. I've spent very little money on the promotion. Utilize contacts that can verbally get the word out. Use your e-mail. Have local restaurants (like fast food) or gas staions, conveinece stores to promote you by sponsering a carwash in thier parkingl ot. Your local media usually will make public service announcements for you for free. Check with radio & tv stations.
It's going to be leg work & phone calls.
Almost every restaurant or business I call wikll donate some service to be used at silent auctions.
Do a bingo game. Get that inagination going. You'll be surprised what you can come up with.