Gone are the days of the Brazilian Ball, and with it, an era of glitz and glamour. What has changed in our social event landscape? Are galas still relevant? I interviewed twelve of the top charity gala organizers and despite the fact that they are one of the most costly ways to raise money (the average cost is $0.50 per dollar raised) the answer is clear, galas are still relevant and here are the reasons why. Galas are:
• a way to raise unrestricted and predictable revenue. • a platform to celebrate your mission’s accomplishments and connect donors to your cause—i.e. tell your story.
• an opportunity to provide brand visibility. • an opportunity to steward your key donors. • a vehicle to attract new supporters.
The Gerry & Nancy Pencer Brain Trust Gala: A Night at the Castle Photography by David Lee Visuals
The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery’s Power Ball Photography by Henry Chan .
• a way to announce a transformational gift. • an opportunity to engage corporate donors and give them a platform for activations that help build a fun and engaging guest experience, while meeting their marketing objectives. • a vehicle to build board and committee leadership. • a way to create a deep connection with senior volunteers who work on the event. • still in demand as senior executives still want to network and doing so in a setting that supports charity is acceptable.
Children's Aid Foundation Gala, Teddy Bear Affair 2015 Photography by Ernesto Di Stefano, Lily Leung And George Pimentel