Celebrating Nonprofits
On the 17th of this month, we here at Innovative Party Planners celebrated National Nonprofit Day. For those of you who do not know of National Nonprofit Day, it was founded by best-selling author and business strategist Sherita J. Herring and was first celebrated nationally in 2017. Every year on August 17th, National Nonprofit Day marks the positive impact that nonprofit organizations have, both in our home communities and worldwide. Americans gave a record $471 billion to charitable and nonprofit organizations in 2020, up 3.8% from the prior year.
Nonprofits bring awareness, research, and aid to the people who need it most. They allow millions of Americans (12.3 million, to be exact) to do meaningful work inspired by the causes that matter to them. And if you work for a nonprofit, you may already have needed to plan an event for your organization.
Nonprofit Event Planning: More Than Just Fundraisers
Nonprofit event planning is in many ways very similar to planning events for other organizations and occasions. You'll need a venue, food, and decorations, and to get the word out to your chosen audience. Maybe this is a celebration of your staff and volunteers, so you want to give a great party favor to show your appreciation. Maybe it's a silent auction, so you'll need space to display the items up for auction. Whatever your specific needs are, you're going to need to make sure you can afford them.
One of the best ways to ensure your event's success is to carefully consider your audience, and what kind of event will appeal to them. Whether it's a gala or a walkathon, you can't have an event if no one shows up! Think about your company's values, and what kind of event can best embody that spirit.
Another piece of advice is that instead of feeling constrained by your budget, get creative with how you spend it. Many vendors, from venues to caterers to equipment rental companies, offer special rates for nonprofits. If any of your big supporters own businesses, consider asking them to donate services in lieu of their next monetary contribution.
The most important thing throughout the nonprofit event planning process is not to lose sight of the end goal. You're not just trying to throw a killer party or reach record turnout for your annual event— you're trying to raise awareness not just about your organization, but about the cause it stands for. A well-planned and well-executed event can create a lasting memory for everyone who attends, which can morph into increased support for your company and your cause.
How Innovative Party Planners Can Help
Innovative Party Planners doesn't just do weddings, we're well-versed in planning events for local nonprofit organizations too! From the Children's Cancer Foundation to the POM Chamber of Commerce to the Pearlstone Center, we've helped nonprofits throughout Maryland plan and execute showstopping events across the spectrum. But don't take our word for it; see what some of the reviews have to say!
"Heidi, you have gotten so many compliments [from guests] on the quality and professionalism of the program. Thank you for your patience and guidance."
Jackie Thomas-Suggs | Chief Development Officer | Girls Scouts of Central Maryland
"We have been so happy to work with Heidi and her team at Innovative Party Planners to put together a really fabulous event for our guests this evening and raise money for our summer reading program, Battle of the Books, and other great initiatives."
Christie P. Lassen | Director of Communications and Partnerships | Howard County Library System
Plan Your Next Non-Profit Event With Innovative Party Planners
Innovative Party Planners is your resource for event design and planning in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania and Virginia. To learn more about our event planning services and how we can help make your event one of a kind, contact us by clicking here or call (410) 998-9999.