Non-Profit Partnerships

My last event of the season was an annual conference and reception for women executives in partnership with a charitable cause. This year's recipient was Bottomless Closet, an organization that helps women transition into the workforce by providing business attire and career counseling. Besides the benefits to the charity, working with a non-profit organization is a great way to create goodwill for your organization, increase attendance and gain press for your event. The event last month, the Women's Law Forum, replaced its registration fee with a donation to the charity, but if your budget doesn't allow for that, there are many other ways you can give back.

Awareness fuels fundraising. Non-profit organizations are constantly searching for opportunities to spread their name. The more awareness there is about a cause, the more funds find their way back to the organization. Select a charity that aligns with your event goals and ask if they would like to be featured on all of the event materials at no cost. Perhaps they can add to your content if the executive director or a board member has a relatable story.

Each time I attend an event, I think about all the materials that went into its development, particularly events with extensive decor. It's important to discuss with vendors - before contracts are signed - the policies and procedures surrounding materials disposal. "Leftovers" doesn't just mean food. The Special E (www.thespeciale.com/works.html) will also pick up centerpieces, empty cans, wine corks and promo items, among other things.

As we struggle individually with the current economic times, we must remember the small steps we can take to help others. Non-profit organizations are a vital support system to our communities and if we can keep this in the forefront of our minds, the opportunities to give back are endless.