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Jul 2025
35m 47s

Ep 310 | Tips for Event Fundraising in 2...

Sami Bedell-Mulhern
About this episode

Are you looking to boost your nonprofit's fundraising efforts and connect with more donors? In this episode, I sit down with Roger Devine, co-founder of SchoolAuction.net, to explore the power of event fundraising in 2025 and beyond.

Roger shares his wealth of experience in helping organizations create successful fundraising events, from galas to golf tournaments. We discuss why events are becoming increasingly important for nonprofits of all sizes, especially in an uncertain funding landscape.

Crafting Events That Resonate
Discover practical strategies for:
- Tailoring your event to your specific audience
- Balancing cost-effectiveness with donor expectations
- Leveraging technology to streamline your auction process

Maximizing Impact Without Breaking the Bank
Roger offers insights on:
- Creative alternatives to traditional galas
- Engaging donors through interactive experiences
- Using data to inform your event planning decisions

Building Long-Term Fundraising Success
Learn how to:
- Create a sustainable event strategy that grows with your organization
- Use software to build institutional memory and improve year-over-year results
- Balance the needs of different stakeholders in your event planning process

Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to event planning, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you create memorable experiences that inspire generosity and build lasting relationships with your supporters.

Want to Skip Ahead? Here are Some Key Takeaways:
05:40 Tailoring Events to Your Audience Learn how to research and design events that resonate with your specific donor base.

12:15 Leveraging Technology for Better Results Discover how software can help you track data, improve decision-making, and streamline your event processes.

19:30 Creative Fundraising Ideas Explore unique event concepts that can energize your supporters and set you apart from traditional galas.

26:45 Building a Sustainable Event Strategy Understand how to create an event program that grows with your organization and adapts to changing donor needs.


Roger Devine
Roger Devine has led a life based on service, communication, education, and entrepreneurship. As the co-founder of SchoolAuction.net, he has spent the past 20 years assisting and advising local and national nonprofit organizations and charities on how to grow their programs and ensure financial stability through fundraising events, such as gala auctions, golf tournaments, and trivia nights.

In addition to assisting organizations across the country, Roger has personally chaired dozens of fundraising events for his kid's schools, his Rotary Club, and Pacific Northwest nonprofits focused on causes such as building schools in rural communities, matching US military veterans with service dogs, and pandemic relief.

Learn more at schoolauction.net

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Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
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