Raising funds in hard times

Trying to raise funds is hard, but trying to raise funds in a recession is even harder.

Community groups and agencies facing with this problem will get some solutions from the experts at the region’s annual Funding Expo, set for May 22, at the Hope Community Church.

Organiser Judene Edgar from Tasman Fundraising & Development says the expo will have information and displays pitched at all levels.

“Whether you’re trying to raise $200 or $200,000 and whether it’s for sport, arts, health, education or social services there will be relevant information,” she said. “A new feature of the expo this year is sponsorship panel that will give the business perspective on sponsorships - what they look for in a proposal, what they expect in return and the criteria they use to make their decisions.”

The keynote speaker is James Austin, the CEO of the Fundraising Institute of New Zealand, who had many years as Fundraising and Publicity Manager for the Wellington City Mission. He says in a recessionary environment, professional fundraising makes all the difference between success and failure.

“Many philanthropic trusts are finding their disposable income considerably less than previous years and many individuals will question if they can continue to support their preferred charities at their current level of giving,” he said. “Yet as the recession deepens, many charities will find more people requiring their services, so new and innovative fundraising ideas and relationship building are critical.’’

Mr Austin’s presentation will cover the basic principles of fundraising, preparing a fundraising strategy, acquiring donors and how to keep them on board along with an effective bequest and capital fundraising campaign.

Another panel discussion will focus on Ministry of Social Development funding pools such Enterprising Communities, Community Action Fund, Pathway to Partnership and Social Work Study Awards.

The Funding Expo runs from 10am – 4pm at the Hope Community Church on Friday May 22. For more information contact:
Tara Cater, Tasman District Council Ph. 543-8400 or E-mail tara.cater@tdc.govt.nz
Or Bernie Babe, Community Support Service, Ph. 546-7685 or E-mail css@ts.co.nz 10.00 am to 4.00 pm

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