Auctioneer’s Warning: The Truth About the Boxing Legends Glove and Fake Charity Auction Items

As a professional charity auctioneer who has spent years working with nonprofits across North America, I’ve seen a lot of amazing fundraising moments — and unfortunately, I’ve also seen a lot of mistakes.

Recently, a friend I respect — someone I consider close — proudly posted a photo of what was described as the ultimate collectible: a boxing glove allegedly signed by Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, George Foreman, Mike Tyson, and Floyd Mayweather Jr.

At first glance, it looked impressive. But as an auctioneer and someone who knows the world of sports memorabilia, I felt sick. Why? Because I knew exactly what it was: a counterfeit consignment auction item being sold to charities and donors who don’t know the difference.

And that’s what this blog is about: protecting your charity, your donors, and your reputation from the dangers of fake charity auction items.

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Why the “Boxing Legends Glove” Is a Perfect Example of a Scam

The glove in question claimed to have autographs from five of the greatest boxers in history. But when compared to authenticated signatures, none of them matched.

Even worse, every signature looked almost identical in size, ink, and style — something that never happens with authentic, multi-signed memorabilia.

Here’s the truth:

• If a glove like this were real, it would be the only one in existence.

• It would be a priceless museum piece, not something that quietly shows up at a random charity auction.

• The reality? These gloves are fantasy pieces created to trick charities, sold with meaningless “certificates of authenticity.”

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The Glitz and Glamour Trap

This is how nonprofits get caught: the glitz and glamour of flashy consignment auction items.

Counterfeiters know you don’t live in the world of autographed memorabilia. They know you don’t know which authentication companies are credible. They know you assume a “certificate of authenticity” makes it real.

They count on that lack of knowledge. And they use it against you — and your donors.

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Why a COA Alone Means Nothing

I looked on the “Authentication Company” (the term is used loosely, I entered it into Google Earth and it brought me to this address. Google earth allows the user to look directly at the address in 3D and this (believe it or not) is what I found - it’s a UPS Store in New Jersey. Oddly enough, another “Charity Fundraising” company that is a documented counterfeiter only providing items to the charity world, also uses the same method in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Their address is also a UPS Store - in fact, I have been there in person. The “Suite #”, well that is a PO Box. Are you suspicious yet?

I can’t say this strongly enough: a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) means absolutely nothing if it’s not issued by a recognized authenticator.

• Many fake “authentication companies” operate out of a UPS Store mailbox.

• Real authentication comes only from PSA/DNA, JSA, or Beckett.

• Each has online databases where serial numbers can be verified instantly.

Anything else is worthless — and dangerous to your charity’s reputation.

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What Happens When Donors Discover the Truth

Imagine this scenario: a donor spends thousands at your silent or live auction, proudly taking home a “rare” item. Later, they learn it’s fake.

Who do they blame? Not the vendor. They blame you.

• Your donor feels betrayed.

• Your credibility takes the hit.

• Your future fundraising suffers — because once trust is gone, it’s almost impossible to get it back.

This is why authentic consignment auction items matter more than ever.

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How to Protect Your Nonprofit and Your Donors

Here’s what every nonprofit should do before accepting consignment auction items for fundraising events:

✅ Only work with vendors who provide authentic charity auction items backed by PSA/DNA, JSA, or Beckett.
✅ Verify the authenticator’s address — if it’s a UPS Store or P.O. Box, walk away.
✅ Check serial numbers in real authentication databases.
✅ Offer items that are proven winners: authentic autographed memorabilia, charity travel packages, and luxury silent auction items with guaranteed authenticity.
✅ Work with professionals — not only for items, but also for fundraising event planning and professional auctioneer services that maximize results.

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Why Work With Me as Your Auctioneer

As an auctioneer and fundraising professional, I’ve built my career around protecting nonprofits from mistakes exactly like this.

At GeorgeWooden.com and through BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising, we provide:

• Authentic consignment auction items for silent and live auctions.

• Autographed sports memorabilia backed by our Authentication Guarantee.

• Charity travel packages that donors love to bid on.

• Fundraising event planning designed to maximize your results.

• Auctioneer services that drive excitement, raise more money, and protect your reputation.

When you partner with me, you’ll never have to worry about fake memorabilia or donor trust being destroyed. Everything I provide is real, guaranteed, and proven to raise more money at fundraising events across North America.

👉 Learn more: www.GeorgeWooden.com

How to Run a Record Breaking Paddle Raise That Engages Every Guest and Does More for Your Mission Than Any Other Auction Item

BY GEORGE WOODEN, CHARITY AUCTIONEER AND FUNDRAISING STRATEGIST

After helping nonprofits across the country raise more than $500 million over the past 16 years, I’ve seen firsthand that the most powerful fundraising moment at any gala is often not an auction item — it’s the paddle raise. As a United States Marine veteran, former Maryland State Trooper, and nationally recognized benefit auctioneer, I’ve spent my career mastering the timing, psychology, and storytelling behind what I call the Power of the Paddle.

When done right, a paddle raise (also called Fund A Need or Raise the Paddle) transforms your audience from passive attendees into emotionally engaged donors. Here's how to make it the highlight of your event, and a moment that multiplies both giving and impact.

WHAT IS A PADDLE RAISE AND WHY IT WORKS

A paddle raise invites your guests to contribute directly to your mission at predetermined giving levels. There’s no bidding or prizes — just a pure, mission-driven appeal that resonates emotionally. When executed with purpose, this moment is more inclusive than a live auction because every guest can participate, no matter their donation level.

STEP 1 – SECURE LEAD DONORS IN ADVANCE

Before your event, connect with key donors and confirm their participation at higher giving levels. These pre-committed gifts set the tone for the entire paddle raise and create instant momentum in the room.

STEP 2 – CRAFT AN EMOTIONAL STORY THAT MOVES PEOPLE

Never start a paddle raise cold. Use a heartfelt video or personal story to highlight the mission in action. Donors give when they feel connected — and nothing connects more than real stories of impact.

STEP 3 – SET STRATEGIC DONATION INCREMENTS

Design giving levels that reach everyone in the room. I recommend starting high — 10,000 or 5,000 — and working your way down through 2,500, 1,000, 500, and 100. This format ensures that your largest donors are seen and celebrated while encouraging broad participation.

STEP 4 – USE A PROFESSIONAL AUCTIONEER OR FUNDRAISING EMCEE

This is where I come in. A seasoned charity auctioneer like myself doesn’t just talk fast — we manage the energy of the room, deliver the appeal with emotional weight, and create a sense of urgency that drives results. Timing and voice matter in the paddle raise more than in any other moment of the night.

STEP 5 – PLACE THE PADDLE RAISE AT THE RIGHT MOMENT

Don’t bury your paddle raise after dinner or too late into the night. The best moment is right after your impact story, when emotions are high and guests are fully tuned in. Pause all distractions — this should be the only focus in the room.

STEP 6 – TRACK GIFTS LIVE AND ACKNOWLEDGE GENEROSITY

Use mobile bidding tools, spotters, or a live goal thermometer to show progress in real time. When your audience sees others give, they are more likely to join in. Public celebration fosters public generosity.

STEP 7 – CLOSE WITH A FINAL COMMUNITY LEVEL ASK

After your structured levels, do a final ask for 50 or 100 — something accessible to all. This often inspires first-time donors or second gifts and rounds out the moment beautifully.

BONUS STRATEGY – MATCHING GIFTS AND VIRTIAL PARTICIPATION

If possible, secure a matching gift for part of the paddle raise. This doubles the impact and motivates giving. For hybrid or virtual events, make sure remote guests can participate with mobile-friendly tech and clear on-screen cues.

REAL RESULTS FROM THE POWER OF THE PADDLE

I’ve led paddle raises that generated over 100,000 in under 10 minutes — sometimes exceeding the total raised from the entire auction. One client began with a goal of 40,000 and ended at 130,000, thanks to a well-executed paddle raise. This is what happens when you blend emotion, strategy, and a skilled stage leader into a single moment.

WANT THIS AT YOUR EVENT?

Explore our Auction Services to see how we design these moments for nonprofits across the U.S., and read real testimonials from organizations that have seen record-breaking results.

Contact me today for a free consultation and let’s plan a paddle raise that delivers for your mission.

🎯 Understanding Charity Travel Packages, Why Winning Bidders Sometimes Get Confused

Over the past 16 years, I’ve helped nonprofits across the United States plan and execute powerful fundraising events, from full-scale event strategy to running live charity auctions that raise serious money. One issue continues to come up, especially with charity auction travel packages, and it's something every nonprofit and fundraiser needs to understand before their next event.

🧳 How Fundraising Travel Packages Work, and Why They Raise More

At www.CharityTravelPackages.com, we operate as a full-service travel agency, staffed with real agents who guide your winning bidders from start to finish. What makes our approach unique is that we focus entirely on the nonprofit fundraising space, providing risk-free consignment travel packages that consistently outperform other auction items.

When your organization includes exciting, all-inclusive vacation packages in your charity auction, you elevate your gala beyond anything else in your area. These are top-performing donor experience packages that trigger emotional bids and make your nonprofit stand out.

💰 Charity Pricing vs Retail Pricing, Know the Difference

In a typical retail setting, you go to a travel agency, and the trip includes a significant profit margin. You pay the retail price, and the agency keeps the markup.

But in our world, the nonprofit auction world, it’s the opposite.

At CharityTravelPackages.com, we intentionally lower the cost to nonprofit far below retail value. Why? Because our mission is to help your charity raise the most money possible. Many of our packages include exclusive experiences like guided tours, wine tastings, deep sea fishing, private golf, and more, all curated for donor appeal and not mass tourism.

That’s the key difference. You’re not buying from a catalog. You’re unlocking fundraising auction packages designed to create maximum value for your cause.

🖼️ Each Vacation Package Comes Ready to Sell

Every travel package from us includes:

• A professional auction placard

• All details clearly outlined, including blackout dates and inclusions

• High-quality photos of the resort or accommodations

• Clear starting bid information

We increase the nonprofit cost by just 20 percent so from the very first bid, your organization is making a profit. And when bidding takes off, as it often does, 100 percent of the overage goes straight to your nonprofit.

😕 But Here’s Where Confusion Happens…

Let’s say you include our “Beach Lover’s Collection” package in your gala. It’s a 4-star beachfront all-inclusive resort for two people, four nights, with taxes and gratuities included. The starting bid is $1,900, but a generous donor wins it for $3,500.

Even though the auction placard was displayed all night and the auctioneer clearly explained what’s included, the winning bidder sometimes assumes that, because they bid so far above the starting price, they will receive an upgraded package.

They assume:

• A 5-star resort instead of 4-star

• More nights instead of four

• Extra excursions added in

• Room upgrades or airfare included

But that’s not how consignment auction travel packages for fundraisers work.

🧠 This Is a Donation, Not a Deal

What nonprofits often overlook is this. Your guests sometimes attend a charity auction looking for a deal, not realizing they’re making a donation. The moment they win and start Googling retail prices, they might feel like they overpaid, unless you educate them ahead of time.

That’s where clear framing and professional auctioneer messaging come in.

🎤 What Every Nonprofit Needs to Do

As a professional charity auctioneer and the founder of BWUnlimited.com, CharityTravelPackages.com, and GeorgeWooden.com, I’ve been part of thousands of benefit auctions. Here’s what I recommend.

✅ 1. Educate Bidders Before the Auction

Make it clear that they are donating to your cause, not purchasing a discounted vacation. Use language like:

“Every dollar above the starting bid helps fund our mission. These packages are made available to nonprofits to raise money, not to compete with retail travel.”

✅ 2. Display All Auction Items Throughout the Event

Place placards and trip information on tables, entranceways, and near the auctioneer. Let guests review exactly what they’re bidding on before the excitement kicks in.

✅ 3. Use a Professional Auctioneer Who Can Set the Right Tone

It’s our job to frame the moment correctly, to keep the energy high, but to remind donors that their generosity is supporting a mission, not scoring a discount.

🚀 In Summary, Charity Travel Packages Are Still Your Best Fundraising Weapon

Done right, these no-risk travel packages raise more than any gift basket or donated spa card. They’re consistently the top-performing items in nonprofit auctions, and when bidders understand the value and the purpose, they’ll feel good about bidding high.

And when they bid high?
You win. Your mission wins. And your guests walk away feeling amazing.

💡 Want to Learn More?

👉 Browse www.CharityTravelPackages.com for our full catalog of fundraising vacation packages
👉 Explore www.BWUnlimited.com for authenticated autographed memorabilia and risk-free auction items
👉 Or book www.GeorgeWooden.com if you want a premier charity auctioneer who protects your mission and maximizes your results

July 23, 2025

The Grand Canyon Divide Between Successful and Struggling Charities

In the fundraising world, there is a definite major noticeable difference between the highly successful charities raising $100’s of $1,000’s of dollars, if not millions and those who either break even or raise very little. The difference is so large, it’s as if both are standing on different sides of the Grand Canyon.

The reason for the difference is based on these three criteria:

 1.       Time

2.       Resources

3.       Professional Fundraising Assistance vs. DIY Uneducated Fundraiser

Charity A – Successful

#1 – Time

A charity that has been established for many years has had ample chances to educate themselves on how to plan a successful fundraiser. They have gone through years of planning and executing their events. They have learned what works and what doesn’t. They have curated the right guests to attend and have had many years to educate everyone on the amazing work they are doing while showing social proof.

#2 – Resources

Over time, they have learned to build a fundraising infrastructure. They have created systems to identify high-level event sponsors and donors. They have procured a list of potential sponsors based on various surveys as well as being recognized in their community for the work they have done. Furthermore, they have held many fundraising events/galas and had time to educate their guests on how to spend and what their event entails. They have sought out Auction Item donors who can and do donate high-quality auction items for their live and silent auctions. They have learned from their guests in regard to what they like and will bid on.

#3 – Professional Fundraising Assistance

Routinely, successful charities will hire a “Director of Development” whose sole purpose is to plan, manage and run their upcoming fundraising activities such as Galas. These individuals are part of their paid staff and hired based on their professional experience as well as prior successes—they essentially hire their own Professional Fundraiser. The Executive Director of the charity knows that he/she does not have the time or knowhow to plan such an event; their focus is on handling the business of the charity and more importantly, its mission in the community in which it serves.

Charity B – Unsuccessful / DIY Uneducated Fundraiser

#1 – Time

A new or fledgling charity has not had the time to grow their base. Often they are solely volunteer-driven. They proudly proclaim “We are all volunteers,” meaning “We have no paid staff – our donations don’t pay salaries.” That statement in and of itself, unbeknownst to them, is actually detrimental to their success because it signals to other charities in the area that they aren’t competition. They haven’t had time to grow their base or to figure out how to plan a successful fundraising event. They haven’t learned what a successful fundraising event even looks like. Because they are volunteers, they do not have the time to devote their lives to the mission of the charity and how to raise more money.

#2 – Resources

Because they are “All Volunteers,” they don’t have the time to go out and meet potential sponsors and donors. They haven’t had the time to learn how to plan, manage, and host a successful fundraiser and often attempt to simply copy another fundraiser they saw from another similar charity. That is why these types of charities conduct “50/50” or “Money Wheel” raffles—which are not successful. They often rely solely on donated items, especially gift baskets for their auctions—because they haven’t had the time to evaluate whether those are effective. Often, after their fundraising events, they don’t even go back and study their event to see how to improve. Because they are “All Volunteers” living a full-time life, with a full-time job, with a full-time family and full-time commitments—they simply do not have the time needed to invest in the charity to help it grow.

#3 – DIY Uneducated Fundraiser

These charities are stuck because they have beliefs that greatly hinder their growth. Again, because they are “All Volunteer” (signaling that none of the funds raised go to pay salaries), they are against hiring a professional fundraiser—believing that if they pay someone to help with fundraising, it will take money away from their event, instead of increasing it. They do not have the time to educate themselves on successful fundraising trends, are not professional event planners, and do not know how to host a successful fundraising event. They falsely believe they can “Do It Yourself” and experience the same success as the much larger, more profitable charities. They have no clear direction planning the event—they guess on what to do next and what will help. They often focus only on the outcome of the event rather than the experience of the donor. They give away “Door Prizes” which local businesses donated to help raise money—but these are simply given away. They don’t understand event timelines, they make homemade flyers, and they don’t understand how important the venue is in appealing to major donors. They are simply guessing.

In Summary

The huge chasm between the highly profitable charities and the DIY Uneducated Fundraisers is rooted in the belief that “You must spend money to make money.” New or completely volunteer-driven charities must seek the help of a professional fundraiser—hired as a contractor—to help plan, execute, and teach them how to build a truly successful event.

Volunteer-led charities should not try to compete with larger, more experienced organizations or criticize them with comments like “Their Executive Director makes $100,000.00.” They don’t yet understand the importance of having a qualified professional in that role—and how much that person helps raise. Instead, they should focus on their own growth and mission—and seek help from a professional team like BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising. Contact BW today at 443.206.6121 or their website at www.BWUnlimited.com or by email at info@bwunlimited.com.

🎯 Why Giving Away Free Tickets is Killing Your Fundraising Gala (And What to Do Instead)

If you're planning a fundraising gala or working with nonprofit event planning services, you've probably heard it:

“Can we give a few free tickets ?”

At first, it seems like a harmless, generous gesture. But behind that free seat is a costly truth that too many nonprofits overlook—and it could be quietly draining your ability to raise funds.

Let’s break it down.

🚫 There’s No Such Thing as a Free Ticket

When it comes to charity gala planning, free tickets are never actually free.

Every single guest seat at your event comes with real, unavoidable costs—food, drinks, service, venue rental, and staff. Whether you're hosting at a country club or community hall, someone pays that bill.

And when you give away a ticket? You’re often paying for it out of your own mission dollars. That means less money going toward feeding families, supporting veterans, or rescuing animals—and more being lost to unnecessary event expenses.

💸 The Hidden Cost of Free Seats at Charity Events

Here’s the harsh reality most nonprofit fundraising events face:

• Guests who request a free ticket often don’t donate.

• Some don’t even show up—leaving you with an empty seat and wasted costs.

• That seat could’ve gone to a real donor, someone ready to give.

Giving out free tickets doesn’t just drain your event budget. It wastes your most valuable resource: a seat in the room.

🏁 Your Ticket Price is a Financial Hurdle — And That’s a Good Thing

If you’re planning a fundraising gala, here's a mindset shift:

Your ticket price is not a barrier — it’s a filter.

It’s a financial hurdle that prequalifies donors. If someone is willing to buy a ticket, they’ve already shown they can give.

Just like banks don’t hand out loans to everyone who asks, you shouldn’t hand out seats to people who can’t clear the first step. If someone says, “That’s too expensive,” that’s okay. It means your charity ticket strategy is working.

🥂 Cheap Tickets Attract the Wrong Crowd

Low ticket prices don’t lead to higher donations. They lead to “grazers”—people who come for the food and fun, then leave without donating, bidding, or getting involved.

Meanwhile, your real donors—people who believe in your cause—get less attention, less engagement, and less impact.

Remember: you're not throwing a party. You're hosting a high-impact fundraising event designed to generate real results.

✅ Smart Pricing Helps You Raise More for Your Mission

The best event fundraising professionals will tell you:

Set your ticket price with intention.

Here’s why:

• It signals the value of your event.

• It attracts the right people—donors, sponsors, and bidders.

• It weeds out the ones who aren’t invested in your mission.

So the next time someone says, “Can I get a free ticket?” ask yourself:

“Is this seat going to help our mission—or hurt it?”

Because in most cases, the answer is costing you more than you think.

🛠️ Need Help Planning a Gala That Raises Real Money?

At BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising, we specialize in:

• Professional charity gala planning

• Turnkey nonprofit event planning services

• Live and silent auctions that actually raise money

If you want a full room of prequalified donors who are there to support your cause—not just sip wine and leave—you’re in the right place.

👉 Contact us now to build the fundraising gala your mission deserves.

🏁 Bottom Line:

🎟️ Don’t sell your event short.
Raise the bar. Price with purpose. And fill your room with real supporters.

How to Host a Fundraising Event That Stands Out (and Sells Out)

Are You a Small or Growing Charity?

Let me ask you three quick questions:

1. Is your nonprofit organization long-established with a large, paid staff?

2. Do your fundraising events consistently secure over $100,000 in sponsorships?

3. Are your event tickets priced over $200, and do you sell out every year?

If you answered “No” to all three, here’s what you’ve just admitted (even if it stings):

You’re likely a small or grassroots charity.

You may be volunteer-run or have little to no full-time staff.

Your event history is short, your support base is still growing, and your charity gala or dinner doesn’t yet attract deep-pocket sponsors or high-spending donors.

Your ticket prices are lower—not because your event lacks value—but because your audience can’t justify a $200+ commitment.

And that’s OK. But if that’s your starting point, you need to be crystal clear on what you’re up against.

📉 Tough Questions You Need to Ask:

1. How many people attended your last charity event? Was it under 200?

2. Is this your first fundraising dinner or benefit gala?

3. Are you struggling to move tickets?

4. Do you know how many nonprofit events take place in your region—or across the country?

Let’s talk numbers.

Know Your Competition: The Fundraising Event Landscape

According to the most recent data, there are 1.5 million registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the U.S.

Each year, Americans host 2 to 3 million documented fundraising events, and that doesn’t even count local benefit events thrown by community groups or individual causes.

Let’s do the math:

🔢 Fundraising Events per State:

Low Estimate:

2,000,000 ÷ 50 states = 40,000 fundraising events per state per year

High Estimate:

3,000,000 ÷ 50 states = 60,000 fundraising events per state per year

That's how much competition your nonprofit event is up against every single year.

🏟️ Imagine the Stadium...

Picture this:

You’re in an NFL stadium packed with 70,000 charities. The smaller, newer nonprofits—you—are seated way up in the nosebleeds.

Suddenly, 300 potential donors walk out onto the 50-yard line.

A countdown clock on the scoreboard ticks down to 0:00. The buzzer sounds.

Now every single charity in the stadium has 10 seconds to shout their mission and try to convince those 300 donors to pick their cause.

That is what you’re doing every time you promote your event with a homemade flyer, no clear message, and a boring title like “Charity Fundraiser for XYZ Organization.”

🚫 Stop Leading With Your Charity

Here’s the brutal truth: Nobody cares about your charity first—they care about the experience you’re offering. When people hear “fundraiser,” they assume it’s boring, overly serious, or a hard sell.

Don’t lead with your mission. Don’t open with your cause. Don’t make your flyer all about “helping people.” That comes later.

If you want people to show up, you have to sell them on the event.

✅ What to Do Instead: Lead with HYPE

Your Event Needs:

1. Excitement

2. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

3. A compelling, unforgettable hook

Whether you’re planning a fundraising gala, a community charity event, or a benefit auction, make the event sound like a night they’ll regret missing.

💥 Talk about the food, drinks, raffles, live music, silent auctions, and exclusive experiences.

🎟️ Use phrases like “limited seating”, “exclusive event”, and “VIP ticket options available”.

📲 Promote with bold, energetic visuals and compelling social media content.

📢 Save the Mission Talk for the Microphone

Once your event is sold out, the room is buzzing, and the energy is high—that’s when you tell your story.

THAT’S when people will care.

THAT’S when they’ll listen.

And that’s when they’ll give.

💡 Final Thought

If your nonprofit fundraising event is just another “flyer about a fundraiser,” you’re already drowning in the noise of 3 million other fundraisers.

But if you build excitement, use powerful event language, lead with entertainment value.

You don’t just stand out.

You sell out.

The Fundraising Playbook: Gary Bartels, Executive Director and Founder of OATH

The Fundraising Playbook #3 - Welcome Gary Bartels, Executive Director of OATH Inc. from Katy, Texas. OATH helps Veterans and First Responders heal while in the outdoors.

Unlocking Successful Charity Auctions: Dispelling Myths and Maximizing Bids

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Fundraising University! Today, we're tackling a pervasive myth in the realm of charity auctions: the necessity of listing retail values for auction items. Let's dive in and debunk this misconception once and for all.

In our quest to demystify charity fundraising practices, we consulted with our trusted Accountants, who diligently researched prevalent myths. One myth stood out prominently: the notion that listing retail values on auction items is essential. This belief, while widespread, is not rooted in reality.

Citing IRS Code 561, it's crucial to clarify that charitable donors are only entitled to claim the retail value, not the selling price, on their annual taxes. However, over time, this guideline has been misinterpreted, leading to the misconception that charities must disclose retail values to potential bidders.

With over 17 years of professional fundraising experience under our belts, we've witnessed countless instances where items with "known retail values" failed to meet expectations. Consider a recent Silent Auction scenario featuring two enticing items:

• "Unique Experiences for Auction": A $1,000 Gift Certificate for a private jet experience.

• "High-End Collectibles for Auction": A $500 Gift Certificate for a renowned cowboy boot company.

Despite their perceived retail values, the auction outcomes were surprising:

• The private jet experience sold for $220.

• The cowboy boot company certificate fetched only $200.

These results are not anomalies; they're a recurring pattern. Despite our best efforts to advise charities against listing retail values, many still do so, unaware of the unintended consequences.

So, what's the winning strategy for charity auctions? It starts with setting realistic starting bids or "Reserve Bids" and defining bidding increments. Moreover, organizations should curate auction items strategically, focusing on offerings that ignite excitement and evoke a "Fear Of Missing Out" (FOMO) among potential bidders.

Embrace items that offer exclusivity and allure, such as:

• Celebrity Memorabilia for Auction

• Luxury Items for Auction

• Entertainment Packages for Auction

• Travel Packages for Auction

• Artwork for Auction

• Home and Lifestyle Items for Auction

Remember, the key to success lies in understanding your audience and selecting items that resonate with their interests and aspirations. Dispel the myth that guests will bid based on retail values alone; instead, focus on creating memorable experiences that inspire generosity and support your organization's mission.

In conclusion, let's rewrite the narrative of charity auctions by prioritizing impact over perceived value. Together, we can elevate fundraising efforts and make a lasting difference in our communities. Stay tuned for more insights and strategies from Fundraising University!

Elevate Your Charity Gala with a Professional Auctioneer

At many charity Galas across the country, fundraising committees aspire to host lively auctions as part of their event. Finding the right individual to serve as an "Auctioneer" is crucial. Often, they turn to local celebrities, politicians, or members of the charity's leadership.

However, relying on novices or amateurs can be a costly mistake. While some may attempt to mimic the iconic "Auctioneer's Chant," the reality is that professional auctioneers bring unparalleled expertise and value to the table. Investing in a seasoned Charity Auctioneer ensures a successful and lucrative event.

Why Choose a Professional Auctioneer?

Professional Charity Auctioneers, like George Wooden, Premier Benefit Auctioneer, possess extensive experience engaging with diverse crowds, particularly charity supporters. They masterfully balance the excitement of their chant with the need for clarity, ensuring guests remain enthralled while comprehending the auction proceedings.

Moreover, professional auctioneers understand the intricacies of fundraising auctions, seamlessly weaving in the charity's mission while enticing bids. Their expertise extends to specialized fundraising tactics like Fund a Need or Paddle Raise, which, when executed correctly, yield remarkable results.

The Pitfalls of Novices and Celebrities

In contrast, novices, celebrities, or makeshift auctioneers lack the finesse and skill required to maximize fundraising potential. While well-intentioned, their inexperience may result in missed opportunities, ultimately costing the charity valuable revenue.

A Professional Benefit Auctioneer Elevates Your Event

By engaging a professional Benefit Auctioneer, you elevate your event, signaling to guests that your cause is deserving of top-tier talent and attention. George Wooden exemplifies excellence in the auctioneering realm, consistently delivering exceptional results for charities nationwide.

Conclusion: Invest in Success

Before opting to cut costs by enlisting amateurs, consider the immense benefits of partnering with a seasoned professional. The right auctioneer can transform your fundraising efforts, surpassing expectations and propelling your charity toward its goals.

So, when pondering whether to settle for less or aim for greatness, remember the difference a professional can make. As you reflect, ask yourself: did you settle for mediocre cuisine to save a few dollars, or did you invest in an unforgettable dining experience? Similarly, choose to elevate your fundraising endeavors by entrusting them to a proven expert.

Ready to exceed your fundraising goals? Contact George Wooden, Premier Benefit Auctioneer, and discover the difference experience makes. With a track record spanning coast to coast, George stands ready to elevate your charity Gala to new heights. Call George at 443.206.6121 to embark on your journey toward fundraising success!

Navigating Charity Auction Competition in Harford County, Maryland

In the bustling charity landscape of Harford County, Maryland, the competition among non-profits is intense. This mid-sized county, with its 437.13 square miles, houses a staggering 1,769 registered US Non-Profits, creating an environment where 4.04 charities vie for attention and funds per square mile.

Amidst the picturesque events attended by local luminaries, each charity, regardless of its mission, finds itself engaged in a fierce competition to raise money. The struggle extends beyond fundraising as organizations seek attention and valuable donations from businesses across the county.

Harford County boasts a diverse business community, but many are small enterprises striving to balance their financial responsibilities while attracting customers. These businesses, inundated by constant requests for donated items, face a challenge in supporting every charity that reaches out. Larger corporations like Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, and similar entities have implemented strategies, such as online request systems, to manage and decline donation requests.

Despite the abundance of charities, each organization often operates under the assumption that it is the sole entity seeking support from local businesses. The reality, however, is that these businesses field numerous requests, leading to a sense of frustration and weariness among owners who are repeatedly approached.

This competition for donations and attention poses a significant challenge for charities in Harford County. Small businesses cannot sustainably contribute to every request, and larger corporations have established mechanisms to navigate the deluge of appeals.

This insight into the competitive charity landscape is not unique to Harford County; it resonates across the United States. Whether you're in Maryland or any other part of the country, understanding the fierce competition among charities in your area is crucial. Every mission is important, but recognizing and respecting the challenges businesses face in meeting donation requests is equally essential for sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships.