The old saying “location, location, location” is an important one to remember when you’re planning a nonprofit fundraiser. That’s because the venue you book will help get people excited about your event. When you’re competing with other organizations looking for a great venue, you’ll want to pin down the date and time at the venue of your choice as soon as possible. We suggest starting your planning process at least three months in advance.
To get you feeling inspired and creative, we’re giving you some effective fundraiser ideas. Here are 7 types of fundraisers that Nevada County nonprofit organizations have held at the Foothills Event Center:
1. Live Music
Last Friday, the Lifetime Adoption Foundation put on a benefit concert featuring world-renowned acoustic guitarist Peppino D’Agostino. This foundation is a local non-profit organization that helps women and children in crisis situations. There was a big turnout for D’Agostino, who has been named “Best Acoustic Guitarist” by Guitar Player Magazine. Read more about this successful benefit concert here: Peppino D’Agostino Concert to Benefit Adoption Foundation.
2. Silent Auction
The Nevada County Habitat for Humanity holds their positive and uplifting “Street of Dreams” fundraiser at the Foothills Event Center each year. At the Street of Dreams events, generous donors pitch in to help the Habitat for Humanity to achieve their goal of constructing affordable homes in Nevada County.
3. Casino Night
The Rotary Club of Grass Valley holds their annual casino night fundraiser at the Foothills. This year’s theme, “Rotary Royale Casino Night,” was James Bond-inspired, and people arrived dressed to impress. In addition to casino games, there was a silent auction with over 200 items, door prizes, a raffle, live music, a magician, and a live auction. In cooperation with the fundraiser’s theme, James Bond movies were screened!
4. Art Auction
Local non-profit organization One Source – Empowering Caregivers held their first annual HeART & Wine Gala at the Foothills earlier this year. Musical entertainment was provided by Purdon’s Crossing, Earles of Newtown, Sibling Revelry, and the Ruckrich Family Band. The Foothills Event Center was packed for an entertaining evening full of awesome music, food, wine, and of course, the art auction!
5. Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is a very popular social event. This means finding supporters for your fundraiser will be easy! Plus, you’ll be able to attract people outside of your typical supporter base, due to the attractiveness of the event. This will grow your donor database too! Ghidotti Early College High School and Bitney College Preparatory High School, two Nevada County schools, have held wine tasting fundraisers at the Foothills.
6. An Elegant Gala
Gala fundraisers can offer your supporters fun and relaxation. Stage shows, a DJ, or live music will create a unique environment for your guests. The addition of live entertainment keeps your guests interested during your fundraiser. This past New Year’s Eve, The Norah Foundation’s supporters came out in droves to ring in the new year in style. Pictured to the right is one of the photos from the fun photo booth at their gala. You can learn more in this article: Nevada County Non-Profit Organization’s Benefit a Success!
7. Themed Dinner
People love to eat, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, or appetizers! Offer your supporters something exciting and unique, by throwing a themed dinner. Use the Foothills Event Center’s large space to your advantage, and host a dinner that has a theme. For example, KARE Crisis Nursery hosted a fun casino night/cioppino dinner fundraiser.
You might feel both excited and overwhelmed as you plan your nonprofit fundraising event. Know that you’re not alone in your event planning: the Foothills Event Center team is here to help you create a fundraiser that exceeds your needs! We offer many options for hosting an unforgettable fundraiser, including VIP suites, a movable trust-style stage, and the largest event venue parking lot in Nevada County!
Our Event Coordinators are here to assist you in creating the right ambiance and style for your next fundraiser!
To find out more, email us or give us a phone call at 530-271-1000.
Mardie has been a successful and inspiring entrepreneur since 1981. The Foothills Event Center was created out of Mardie’s desire to enrich the community and provide a place to come together for celebrating, learning, sharing, and enjoying our rich Gold Country heritage. Rooted in her love of Nevada County, Mardie’s strong vision and desire to serve the community yielded the opportunity to revitalize the former Weaver property into a gathering place that we all can enjoy.
Her innovation and commitment to environmental responsibility contribute positively to our community and surroundings. With The Foothills Events Center, Mardie is creating the best experience for our clients and their guests, creating memories for generations.
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