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.
