As a nonprofit, you have undoubtedly heard the term “virtual events” over the past six months. As the global pandemic continues to limit the ability to hold in-person fundraising events, nonprofits are forced to create new and “virtual” giving opportunities. As a provider of online fundraising tools, such as online auctions and virtual gala software, our team has helped charities move their events online. In the process, we have heard many stories about their experience. I’d like to share some of those stories to help normalize concerns and confusion on what steps to take in this new world.
What were your initial thoughts when confronted with COVID-19?
“Panic!”
“We were in a frozen pattern for a bit trying to decide if it was cost-effective to have an event during the pandemic”
“How we were going to pull off a Virtual Fundraiser in a short amount of time. With people out of work, would they be willing to donate, etc.”
These were very common concerns that we heard throughout March, April and May. Organizations had planned, booked and were ready to hold in-person events. No one would have guessed that the whole events industry was going to turn upside down. The number one concern was “if we go virtual, will we raise money?” followed by “how do we even go virtual?”
In addition, from March through June, we saw many events push to the fall hoping to weather the spring storm. Unfortunately, the storm has continued and those who held off now face the same challenges in the fall. Faced with limited options, organizations are nervously entering the virtual fundraising world. I’m here to confidently say that making the decision to move forward is the hardest part. From there it gets easier and details fall into place.