Join A.J. Steinberg, a seasoned fundraiser and event producer, as she unveils her distinctive approach to nonprofit event planning. A.J. underscores the significance of events as pivotal moments to foster community and build affinity for organizations. She delves into the post-event stewardship process, stressing the necessity of personalized thank-you messages and consistent follow-up communication. A.J. also emphasizes the importance of capturing attendee information to expand mailing lists and cultivate potential donor relationships. She shares innovative strategies for engaging younger donors and the concept of "friendraiser" events to build a network of supporters. One major challenge discussed is filling sponsor tables. A.J. suggests an inventive solution: offering sponsors the option to gift their tables back to VIPs or families of honorees, adding value and enhancing the event experience. Don’t miss out on A.J.’s expert tips and transformative ideas that could elevate your next event from ordinary to extraordinary! Takeaways Events are an opportunity to build affinity and community for the organization.Personalized thank-you messages and follow-up communication are crucial for post-event stewardship.Capturing names and emails at events helps expand the organization's mailing list and build relationships with potential donors.Engaging younger donors through friendraiser events can help establish long-term relationships.Offering the option for sponsors to gift back their tables can help fill sponsor tables and avoid empty seats. Consider gifting back sponsorships to those who may not be able to afford themThe OneGo Foundation provides critical gap funding for first respondersAuctions can be an entry point for new donors and a way to engage attendeesEvent organizers should be open to trying new strategies and adapting their eventsSequencing and timing are crucial in creating successful fundraising events Main Topics 01:10 Building Affinity and Community through Events03:33 Capturing Names and Emails for Relationship Building06:03 Engaging Younger Donors through Friendraiser Events08:32 Filling Sponsor Tables with Strategic Onboarding20:47 The Impact of the OneGo Foundation: Supporting First Responders23:11 The Evolving Role of Auctions in Fundraising Events29:10 Embracing Change: Trying New Strategies for Success31:02 Sequencing and Timing: Keys to a Successful Fundraising Event Episode Links: https://www.queenbeefundraising.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajsteinbergproductions/ If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app. Listen, rate, and subscribe! Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts