Fundraising Event Planning

There are as many reasons to have fundraisers as there are organizations that hold them. Some of the common types of fundraising events are:

• Galas: These are the black-tie (usually, but not always) events where guests pay a certain amount of money per plate to attend. There are usually some high-profile people and local or national celebrities to create more of a "draw." Obviously, there is a lot of attention to detail on these events; with entertainment, decor, and food all a part of the focus.

• Sporting Events: A great example is Race for the Cure. Held in various cities during the year and then also with its annual race, this is a chance for people of various athletic abilities to use their hobby toward something good. The AIDS Walk is another of the many races held to raise money. Other common fundraisers are golf tournaments, bikeathons, triathlons, or just about any combination of a sports hobby and a financial need.

• Silent Auctions: Auctions are often a small part of an event such as a gala or other fundraiser; but sometimes are an event on their own. Planners round up donated items (ranging from signed celebrity photos or items to airplane tickets to great destinations). Then they place them out for bid. Attendees walk around to the tables where the items are displayed, and sign up with their bid. The winners are announced at the end of the fundraising event.

Of course there are many, many other types of events that can be held in any city by any organization.

Who plans these events, and how do I find these jobs?

1. Learn (and read) as much as you can about event planning
2. Get some experience....
   • either by volunteering for local events (there should be plenty of opportunity for volunteering for fundraising events), or
   • by gaining some work experience either with a DMC, a caterer, or as an On-Site Event Manager
3. and network!

For much more information on this process, please be sure to visit the Career Planning page.

The biggest drawback to finding work in fundraising event planning is that, as the name implies, you will be working for non-profit companies. That doesn't mean that there aren't any paid positions in non-profits, because there are (they are estimated in with the annual cost of running the non-profit business). It just means that you won't be making a lot of money. If your goal is to make tons of money, you might focus on some of the other branches on the event planning tree.

However, if you find more reward in doing something beneficial for others and using your job (which you enjoy) toward a higher good, then fundraising event planning might be perfect for you!


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