Thank you for your interest in planning an event to raise awareness and benefit Lung Cancer Alliance. We are both thrilled and humbled by your interest and stand ready to help.
The main goal is to do something that has personal meaning to you--that you enjoy doing--while supporting Lung Cancer Alliance. And remember, don't get bogged down by the numbers. Raising awareness is just as important as raising funds!
First, you will need to decide what you’d like to do. Brainstorm a list of activities or events that really interest you – events you would attend yourself. Get your friends to contribute ideas, and remember that even the simplest events can be very effective. A quickly-organized dance hosted at a Knights of Columbus Hall raised $7000, for example.
Network, network, network! Think of all the celebrities you or your friends know who might be able to donate their time: actors, musicians, and authors, local or even national “bigwigs.” Then, approach them fearlessly to see if they can contribute a performance, a reading, or just their presence at a party you host.
Dances, parties, raffles, walks, auctions and golf tournaments are some tried-and-true events. These can be combined, as well! A golf tournament can dovetail with a wine and cheese party that includes a silent auction. Remember to start small--as you continue to fundraise your efforts WILL grow over the years.
Intimate dinner parties of 15-20 guests can also be wonderful consciousness-raisers and indirect fundraisers. Invite people over, but don't ask for money. Instead, talk about your personal connection to lung cancer and have LCA materials onhand for those interested in learning more.
If you would like to organize an event, let us know. We have event planning tools, sample event fliers and registration forms, and can often put you in touch with other volunteers living in your region so you can work together on projects.
Please contact Emily Eyres at 202-463-2080 for more information.
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