A high-end fundraiser can be the pinnacle of a charitable organization's calender year -- the event where the most money is gathered. Some upscale fundraisers can even be done on a small-scale budget, coupled with donations. The keys to a successful upscale fundraiser are the guests themselves and the dress code. If the guests are dressed for an upscale event, the organization is already half way there to giving them one.
Silent Auction
A silent auction can be the black-tie event of the year for a fundraising group. Items as large as a car or as small as a gift card are solicited from donors. During the silent auction, attendees bid "silently" by writing down their names and bids next to the items. At the end of a predetermined period of time, the auction ends and the highest-listed bidder for each auction item wins. Private citizens may donate collector's pieces for the auction or businesses may donate products or certificates for services, which results in publicity as well.
Fundraising Dinner
A formal fundraising dinner can raise money for a worthy cause while giving those who purchase tickets an upscale evening out, complete with wine and a specially prepared meal. An organization can sell tickets at varying price levels for the entire meal without wine or the entire meal with wine pairings included. Local restaurants may even participate in the event at a reduced rate or free of charge just for the free publicity and to be associated with a charitable organization.
Art Gallery Event
A fundraising event at a local gallery is an ideal way to feature local artists, provide an upscale environment for guests and raise money for a charity. Serve cheese and a few wine choices and it's a high-end evening for all. Local artists may wish to donate pieces for the event or be compensated with full membership in the organization for donations of artwork. Artists are usually excited about the opportunity to show work to a large number of people just to get the public's attention.
Casino Royale Night
The atmosphere of a high-end casino -- with men in suits and women in flowing dresses -- can set the mood for large expenditures of cash. Hire volunteers to work the table games, with all proceeds going to a local charity. Include cocktails, wine and hors d'oeuvres to keep the event lively and to encourage attendees to play until the wee hours of the morning.
Tags: charitable organization, entire meal, raise money, silent auction, with wine