Every year around this time, I receive many invites for galas and other spring events. I sit down with all the invitations and decide which ones to attend. Obviously, Covid has challenged our ability to gather for the past two years, but some events are starting to take place in person again. At the same time, many are questioning whether Covid has brought an end to the annual gala or golf tournament. Also, is that the worst thing that could happen in fundraising? If organizations can build other sustainable campaigns and inroads to funding, the way of the gala might become less of a popular option. Funder reports, hybrid events, leveraging social media and other digital marketing campaigns, and the use of video for virtual site visits are becoming more prominent and allow for greater accessibility (especially for those small and emerging nonprofits). What are you doing to adapt during the pandemic and create a new fundraising campaign?

Rachel Werner, MPA, GPC, PMP, Owner & CEO of RBW Strategy