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.

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.

Are Donated Items really the best way to raise funds?

I want to take you on a journey, one that's close to my heart from my time volunteering with various charities. Seeing these causes I deeply cared about struggle due to limited support drove me to become more involved. Now, I'm dedicated to guiding charities across North America as a Director and a coach, helping them thrive in their fundraising efforts part of which is guiding them to select the highest quality auction items for charity fundraising events such as Consignment Auction Items, Vacation Packages for Fundraising Events, Experiential Donations, Travel Experiences Donation, Sports Memorabilia Donations, Consignment Sports and entertainment Collectibles, Autographed Sports Items for Charity, Athlete-Signed Memorabilia Donations, consignment jewelry for charity auctions, Charity Sports Auction Items, Sports Memorabilia Fundraising Partners and Exclusive Sports Experiences Donations.

From my experience, I've learned something vital: the real power of remarkable auction items that go beyond just relying on donations. These items truly make events special, and we call them "Banquet Packages" because they come directly from the heart of these charities.

Surprisingly, while a few charities understand this, most still believe that donated items are the sole key to successful fundraising. But the truth is, many larger organizations, especially in sectors like "Outdoor Non-Profits" such as Ducks Unlimited and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, have quietly been buying these special items for a long time.

Let me share what I've seen:

• Businesses are overwhelmed with donation requests from caring volunteers. They're doing their best to keep their own doors open while supporting their communities.

• Local charities often forget that these businesses are part of their community, too. The people in town are more likely to support these businesses directly.

• Donated items sometimes aren't as valuable or easy to sell as we think. At local auctions, they often only fetch about half of their retail value, considering the time and effort to get them.  Volunteer wasting time, money and emotions with Donation Requests and In-Kind Donations for Fundraisers,

• On the other hand, I've introduced a new approach to charities: "Auction Item Consignment." These unique items, not found locally, are given to charities without any financial risk. By just marking them up a bit, charities start making money from the very first bid, keeping all the proceeds no matter what the final bid is.

Here is something else charities do not consider – How to gain the attention of possible sponsors and guests to attend their event as well as just how much competition there is in their area regarding other charities hosting their events.  Ask yourself?  Which one would get the most attention – the one with gift baskets and gift certificates in their auctions donated by local businesses OR the one with high quality memorabilia, beautiful jewelry and especially with worldwide vacations and experiences that they can bid on?  The answer is obvious.

But here's the real game-changer: getting these items sponsored. Charities find people or local businesses to cover the costs. Every bid, successful or not, means the charity keeps the money—making profits without any financial stress.

It's a world of difference between donated and consigned items. Do you want real sports memorabilia or something less authentic? How about selling vacation packages worldwide versus a local home limited to certain seasons?

So, here's my question: Do you want your charity to succeed? Want to wow your supporters with amazing auction items? It's time to believe in the incredible success that consignment can bring. Let's connect, let's chat—it's time for your charity to shine.

Call us at 443.206.6121 or email at info@bwunlimited.com. Let’s talk, perhaps you might learn something that may change your opinion and approach ultimately affecting your overall success.

Elevate Your Charity Gala: Why George Wooden Is Your Premier Benefit Auctioneer

As a dedicated advocate for your charity's cause, I understand the pivotal role a seasoned auctioneer plays in the success of your fundraising galas. When gearing up for an unforgettable event, and to ensure its triumphant execution, the search for the perfect auctioneer should led you to one name that stands above the rest: George Wooden.

The Pursuit of Excellence:

In the realm of charity event auction specialists, George Wooden emerges as an unrivaled professional. His accolades and track record speak volumes, embodying the essence of an expert charity auctioneer. What sets him apart is his unparalleled expertise, cultivated over years of dedicated service within the charity world.

George Wooden's Distinguished Profile:

Extensive Charity Auction Experience: George Wooden boasts an impressive portfolio of fundraising auctions for numerous charitable causes. His depth of experience spans a multitude of industries, making him a versatile and adaptable auctioneer for any charitable event. He is much more than just an Auctioneer, he is documented to be the owner of the #1 most highly ranked and sought after, charity fundraiser in North America.

Renowned Celebrity Collaborations: What truly distinguishes George Wooden is his work alongside world-renowned celebrities. His ability to engage high-profile audiences and drive fundraising success has earned him the trust and admiration of some of the most influential figures.

Master of Ceremonies Extraordinaire: Beyond being an auctioneer, George Wooden's mastery as a charity auction MC (Master of Ceremonies) infuses uour galas with an unparalleled blend of entertainment and fundraising finesse.

Why George Wooden Is the Best of the Best:

Charisma and Connection: George's charismatic stage presence and genuine connection with the audience create an electric atmosphere, encouraging active participation and generous contributions.

Strategic Fundraising Prowess: His strategic approach to benefit auctioneering maximizes bids and fundraising potential, ensuring your event surpasses its goals.

Tailored to Your Cause: George Wooden's commitment extends beyond the event; he customizes his approach to align seamlessly with our charity's mission, fostering a deeper connection between your cause and the attendees.

Partnering with George Wooden:

Selecting George Wooden as your professional benefit auctioneer isn't just a choice; it's an investment in the success and impact of your cause. His expertise, combined with his passion for philanthropy, promises an unforgettable and impactful gala experience.

In conclusion, for your upcoming charity gala, George Wooden stands as the premier benefit auctioneer, bringing unparalleled experience, celebrity collaborations, and an unwavering commitment to elevating our cause.

Let's embark on this journey together, ensuring your event leaves a lasting legacy in support of our noble cause.