| It's amazing what a difference in scheduling will make | | | | principle applies. Whenever possible, if you are hosting |
| to the success of a benefit auction. By arranging your | | | | a gala dinner as part of the evening's events, you |
| program based on the style of event you are holding, | | | | should try to have the live auction occur during dinner, |
| you can raise even more money for your worthy | | | | after the meal is served but before dessert. Again this |
| cause. | | | | is when most people will be in attendance, which will |
| If you are holding a fundraising event during the | | | | make it easier to gain their full attention. Having your |
| daytime, it's a good idea to have your benefit and | | | | audience's focus is very important to achieve the best |
| charity auctioneer go on during and near the end of | | | | outcome. Once the live auction is complete, you can |
| the lunch break. This is the time when the most people | | | | follow that with your headline entertainment, which is |
| will be gathered at the exact same place and will be | | | | basically a little reward for having stayed around and |
| more attentive to what is being said. At other times, | | | | participated in the live auction. |
| they will be milling about talking amongst themselves | | | | So when you are planning your next benefit auction, |
| and it's harder to get everyone's attention. If scheduled | | | | be sure to schedule the events to gain maximum |
| this way, people will stay through the fundraiser to | | | | participation and audience focus. This will ensure your |
| watch the main entertainment after lunch. | | | | event raises the most money it can and provides a |
| When holding fundraising events at night, the same | | | | well organized fundraiser. |