The Fundraising Houseparty

Have you considered throwing a party with a theme that revolves around your favorite cause? Are you interested in raising funds for that important cause in an entertaining way and without fear? If so, you are ready to throw a fundraising houseparty.

Morrie Warshawski, author of Shaking The Money Tree: How to Get Grants and Donations for Film and Video, has recently updated his book The Fundraising Houseparty: How to Party with a Purpose and Raise Money for Your Cause. I am glad he sent me a copy to review.

What is a fundraising houseparty?

Warshawski lists the basic elements of a fundraising houseparty party in his book…

• People receive an invitation to come to a party at a private home.
• The invitation makes it clear that the evening will be a fundraising event.
• Participants arrive and are served some refreshments.
• Participants sit through a brief presentation.
• The Host or a Peer–someone articulate, enthusiastic and respected by participants–stands up and asks everyone to make a contribution.

Although the concept is as simple as following the elements quoted above, the details can make the difference between it being effective or not. Warshawski shares the needed details, right down to the preferred setup of the refreshment area.

What you can expect when you get your copy of this book?

• Step by step instructions and checklists provide an easy to follow method for an effective fundraiser
• Examples of proven items including invitations, thank you notes, and a script for asking for donations will help cut your time investment and take away your worries about whether you are doing things correctly
• Tips from additional fundraising experts makes certain you are reaping the greatest benefit from people’s experiences
• 58 easy to read pages of information ensures you will quickly understand what needs to be done
• Results to expect from hosting a fundraising houseparty so unreasonable expectations are eliminated

If you are searching for a thick book full of historical facts about fundraising or the psychology of why raising funds via houseparties is effective, this book is not for you. However, if you want an easy to read book filled with practical advice and step by step instructions to host a fundraising party, you need to add The Fundraising Houseparty to your arsenal of fundraising knowledge.