A charity auction is an excellent way for nonprofit organizations to raise significant funds, but the live auction portion is only one piece of the puzzle. To truly maximize your fundraising potential, incorporating a paddle raise is an excellent strategy. A paddle raise, also known as a fund-a-need or a special appeal, is a direct call for donations to support a specific project or cause. Unlike a traditional auction where guests bid on items, a paddle raise invites them to contribute cash donations at various levels.
The effectiveness of a paddle raise lies in its ability to unite a room full of supporters around a common goal. It taps into the collective spirit of giving, allowing every guest, regardless of their bidding power in the main auction, to participate and make a meaningful impact. Below, we’ll show you how to run a paddle raise at your charity auction.
Planning Your Paddle Raise
Thorough planning is the foundation of any successful paddle raise. The first step is to establish a clear fundraising goal and define specific donation levels. You should structure these levels to appeal to a wide range of donors, from those who can make a significant contribution to those who wish to give a smaller amount.
A common strategy is to start with a high donation level and progressively move to lower amounts, allowing everyone to participate. For example, you might start at $5,000, then move to $2,500, $1,000, $500, $250, and finally $100.
Choose a Compelling Cause
The heart of a successful paddle raise is the story you tell. You must select a specific, compelling cause or project that your paddle raise will support. This focus makes giving tangible and helps donors visualize the direct impact of their contributions. Instead of a general appeal for operational funds, frame the need in terms of a concrete project, such as funding a new playground, providing scholarships for a year, or purchasing critical medical equipment. A powerful, emotional story that illustrates the need and the solution your organization provides will resonate deeply with your audience and inspire them to give generously.
Train Your Team
Your auctioneer and volunteers are crucial to the success of the paddle raise. A skilled, professional auctioneer can command the room's attention, build excitement, and guide the audience through the giving process with energy and passion.
You must train your volunteers, also known as "spotters," to identify donors who raise their paddles at each level accurately. They must be attentive and efficient to guarantee the capture of every donation, creating a seamless, professional experience for everyone.
Implementing the Paddle Raise
The introduction to the paddle raise sets the tone for the entire appeal. This is the moment to capture the audience's hearts and minds. Your auctioneer or a passionate speaker, such as a board member or a beneficiary of your services, should present the chosen cause.
A short, impactful video can be an incredibly effective tool for telling your story and creating an emotional connection. The introduction should be concise yet powerful, clearly communicating the problem, the proposed solution, and the specific impact that donor contributions will have.
Announce Donation Levels
After introducing the cause and its story, the auctioneer will begin the appeal by announcing the highest donation level. They will ask everyone willing to donate that amount to raise their bid paddles. The auctioneer should acknowledge and thank each donor by name or paddle number as spotters record the pledges. After the highest level is complete, the auctioneer will move to the next level down, continuing this process until the auctioneer reaches the lowest donation level.
Keep the Energy High
Maintaining a high-energy, positive atmosphere is critical throughout the paddle raise. Your auctioneer should use encouraging language, celebrate every donation, and keep the focus on the collective impact the group is making. A fundraising thermometer or a live display of the total amount raised can build excitement and motivate guests to help you reach your goal. The spotters should move quickly and efficiently to record pledges, keeping the process flowing smoothly so it doesn’t lose momentum.
Using Auction Bid Paddles
Naturally, to run a paddle raise at your charity auction, you’ll need paddles! Professional auction paddles provide a clear, visible way for donors to signal their intent to give, helping your spotters and auctioneer accurately identify participants.
Paddles eliminate confusion and confirm the correct recording of every pledge. The sight of numerous paddles held high in the air also creates a powerful visual representation of support, encouraging more people to join in.
Types of Paddles
There are several types of auction bid paddles available, each offering different benefits. Stock bid paddles are a cost-effective and practical choice. They are pre-numbered and designed for clear visibility.
Custom auction bid paddles provide opportunities for branding and sponsorship. Admit One Products creates custom paddles from sturdy paper stock with comfortable wooden handles for greater durability and ease of use throughout the evening.
Selecting the Right Paddles
When selecting paddles for your event, consider functionality and aesthetics. The numbers on the paddles should be large and easy to read from a distance. The material should be sturdy enough to withstand an evening of enthusiastic bidding.
If you have event sponsors, custom paddles offer a valuable way to give them visibility. Ordering the right paddles is a small detail that can significantly impact the execution of your paddle raise and the overall guest experience.
Maximizing Your Paddle Raise
The work to host a successful paddle raise begins long before the event. Promote the fund-a-need project in your event marketing materials, including emails, social media posts, and your event website. Let potential guests know about the specific impact they can have by participating in the paddle raise. This pre-event promotion builds anticipation and sets the stage for a successful appeal.
Recognize and Thank Donors
Public recognition is a powerful way to show appreciation and encourage giving. During the paddle raise, the auctioneer should thank donors as they pledge. Include a list of paddle raise donors in your post-event communications, such as your newsletter or a thank-you email. A personal touch, like a handwritten note from a board member or a call from the executive director, can make your donors feel genuinely valued and strengthen their connection to your organization.
Follow Up After the Event
Your relationship with donors should not end when the event is over. Follow up with them to share the results of the paddle raise and a report on the progress of the project they helped fund. Show them the tangible results of their generosity through stories, photos, and updates. Consistent communication keeps your donors engaged and invested in your mission.
Elevate Your Fundraising Efforts with Admit One Products
A well-executed paddle raise can be the most profitable and inspiring part of your charity auction. By carefully planning your appeal, telling a compelling story, and using professional tools like auction bid paddles, you can create an unforgettable giving experience for your guests.
To make your next paddle raise a success, explore the wide selection of high-quality, professional bid paddles from Admit One Products. Order today to save time and money and receive the lowest prices and quickest delivery without sacrificing quality.
