Speed Dating for Nonprofits

Today a philanthropy organization in Houston hosted an event that positively portrayed 7 nonprofit organizations in a time efficient manner.  The host venue was prominently profiled and the intro speaker highlighted another distinctive institution.  Then 5 distinctive but connected, collaborative nonprofits were each given 20 minute forums to share their story for 8 foundation and corporate funding representatives.  Just like speed dating, as the buzzer sounded, each group of 8 funders rotated to the next nonprofit.

Though every nonprofit would love to host site visits for funders, this was a fabulous introduction for many potential funders who might not have otherwise been exposed to the vision, mission and successes of these organizations.

Successful Group Thinking

Earlier this week, I had the chance to experience great group dynamics in a nonprofit board development meeting.  Five participants were board members and the other three were staff members. 

Some success attributes included:

• clear, common objective
• prepared committee chair
• engaged participants
• best interest of the organization at the heart of the proceedings
• candid, confidential discussion
• collaborative decision-making
• eagerness to consider every point of view
• positive acknowledgement of diverse suggestions

By embracing these attributes, this committee demonstrated the best of group dynamics.

Charity Fundraising Ideas for Companies

Sterling Bank supports many deserving non-profits in our focus areas through direct contributions and volunteer hours.  Much of our employee fundraising involvement in Houston and Dallas is committed to March of Dimes.  In San Antonio, our bankers raise funds for United Way. 
Employee fundraising ideas that we've successfully implemented include:

• Meals and snacks of every variety
• Bake Sales
• Chocolate Sales
• Sending Singing Pink Flamingos Office-to-Office
• FunFests with Children's Activities, Camel Rides and Music
• Water Balloon Toss to Douse Your Favorite Managers
• Rent-a-Manager for a Day
• Rent-a-Team for a Half-Day
• Silent Auctions
• Children's Art Calendar
• Selling March of Dims Labeled Products including bears and bracelets
• Jeans for Babies
• Pumpkins or Booties for Babies
• Garage Sale
• Change Wars
• Cutest Pet Contest
• Extra Vacation Day Auction

We would love to know of other office friendly, low cost and easily executed charity fundraising ideas.