How to Host Virtual Fundraising Events with the Return to In-Person Events
The Wisdom of WOC is a weekly advice column where the WOC Community can submit its questions about fundraising and philanthropy, and have them answered by our founder, Yolanda F. Johnson, and special guest editors from the WOC community.
From Our Mailbag
Q: What are the best ways to fundraise and still do virtual events, while competing with organizations that have gone back to in-person already?
— Michelle, WA
A: Virtual event components - even for in-person events - are not likely to disappear anytime soon. As the sector continues to navigate these still uncertain times, it is more important than ever to have something available for everyone. There will be constituents who want to show up in-person and others who just aren’t quite there yet. Or, for those organizations who were able to grow their donor bases through the global audience that the pandemic presented us online, hybrid events will be the way to go to continue including those who may not be local enough to stop by the actual event.
The other thing to remember is to find ways to continue making your virtual events special and unique. Most of all, be sure to find ways to engage virtual guests, such as gift boxes, food, etc. that is sent to their homes. If they can’t be in the room with you, make them feel like they still fully participated from the convenience of their homes. Join us for our next episode of WOC’s the Word: “Party Like It’s 2021: The Current Landscape of Special Events” on December 9th for an in-depth conversation around the special events landscape.
This Week’s Expert
Yolanda F. Johnson, Founder of WOC and President of YFJ Consulting
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Got a question about fundraising or philanthropy? Are you a woman of color non-profit professional with a question on career growth? Don’t be shy! We’ve got the answers. Send them our way.
