Tips and tricks for organizing a prize-winning charity raffle
Raffles are one of the best – and most fun – ways to raise money for
your charity. The trick is to follow a handful of simple steps that
will ensure your raffle is not only profitable but problem-free. Before
you know it, you’ll be a pro at raising money for your favorite cause.
The first step in organizing any raffle is to secure a prize – ideally
one that is donated, to increase profits. Ask members of your group if
they have something valuable to donate. Also, spread the word about
your efforts; many people you know may be willing to donate items.
Prizes that tend to draw the most interest include cars, vacations and
electronic equipment. A word of caution, though: There may be some
legal issues surrounding the raffling off of big-ticket items such as
cars, so it’s best to seek legal advice about this. Also, be aware that
raffle laws differ from state to state so educate yourself about any
restrictions that may exist in your area.
Next, determine when and for how much you will sell the raffle ticket.
Of course, prices need to be high enough to make a profit for your
charity, but not so pricey that they will negatively affect sales.
Also, consider offering discounted ticket prices for those who buy in
quantity. For example, if you charge $5 for one ticket, then charge $20
for five.
It’s now time to get your raffle tickets printed. Get creative with raffle ticket
printing; for example, consider ordering them with colors or even
getting them customized with a picture or logo. The idea is that the
more attention-grabbing your raffle tickets look, the more people will
want to buy them.
Finally, it’s time to select the winners. Just remember, anyone
involved in organizing the raffle, along with their immediate family
members, should be discouraged from buying tickets. If they ended up
winning a prize, it would suggest impropriety.
Raffles can not only give a boost to your charity but engender a real
sense of teamwork among your group’s members. That’s a prize in itself.