Learn How To Raise Money For An Organization By Having An Auction

If you want to raise money for a group or an organization, consider holding an auction in your community. A silent auction can be a great way to help the people in the area learn about the cause you are supporting. Proper planning is essential when it comes to holding a silent auction. The following guide walks you through a few things you can do to ensure that the auction goes smoothly.

Get Donations for the Auction

The first thing you need to do is collect items to auction off. Visit local businesses and ask for donations of gift cards or services to be able to auction for the event. Also, ask for donations from the community that you can auction off during the event. Furniture, jewelry, or even tools can be great items to have at an auction. Be sure to specify that all of the items need to be in good condition.

Have Paddles Created for the Auction

Contact a local printing company and have paddles printed for the event. Find out how many people are allowed to be in the venue where the auction will be held. There should be a sign or plaque on the wall somewhere in the facility that states the maximum occupancy that has been set by the fire marshal. Be sure to have enough paddles created for at least fifty percent of the number designated by the fire marshal as couples often come to auction together and will not each need their own paddle.

Have Labels Created for the Auction

You want to have the auction to have a very professional look so have the printer create labels to place on the items that you plan to auction. Be sure the information about each item is easy to read and that the labels are placed on the proper items on the day of the auction. Contact a printing company for more information. 

Have Forms Created for the Auction

When someone wins a bid, you need to have a way to properly track them. If anyone wants to bid at the auction, be sure to have them fill out a form that states their name, address, and phone number so that you can contact them after they win. The printer can create the forms for the auction to save you time when planning the auction.

Once you have all of the paperwork you need for the event, you will be ready for the auction. Be sure to have everyone fill out the forms when you hand out the paddles so that you can properly track which bidder wins each auction.