Many non-profits find that hosting one or two large events each year can generate great results for their organizations.  Events help to develop an organization's volunteer base, raise the profile of the organization in the community and among core constituents and generate funds that can be used by the organization to support its core mission.

For thirteen years, a local animal sheltering organization with which I am involved has hosted a "Walk for the Animals" each spring.  This dog walk has grown in each of the last 13 years and now hosts over 600 walkers and generates over $100K to help homeless animals.  Those of us who chaired the event in its earlier years (my Walks in 2001 and 2002 generated less than half of those amounts) have enjoyed watching the event grow.

So what do you need to get started?  Here are some core requirements:

1) Choose an event that you think your constituents will attend.  We have dismissed ideas such as golf outings, because they are not as good of a fit with our animal-centric base.  Look at similar organizations in other areas of the country.  Reach out to them and find out what works.  You'll find that they are likely to want to share their experiences.

2) Find a small, effective group of volunteers to plan the event.  Choose carefully.  Find a mix of volunteers in your base who may have backgrounds in marketing, who are organized and detail-oriented and who have some entrepreneurial spirit.  These might not be the same people who you rely on for your core work- (e.g., the best dog walker in your kennel might not be the best fit here if he/she prefers socializing with animals rather than people). 

3) Create an action plan.  Assume that it will take you 6-8 months at a minimum to plan the event.  Pull together a plan that includes fundraising, logistics, event volunteer recruitment, publicity, registration, etc.  And don't forget to talk to your organization's staff about how these things will be handled, as you will need their support throughout the process. 

4) Reach out to the community for support.  It's amazing what you get when you ask!  Tell local businesses what you are doing and ask for donations.  In-kind donations such as gift certificates are great prizes.  Plus other businesses can help you get the word out, too.

5) Set expectations.  You can't expect to get traction overnight, so be prepared to give the event time to gain momentum.  Start with a small but well-organized event, and the word will get out.

Events are not only fun for the attendees; they also provide the planners with a constructive and satisfying way of helping the organization.  So good luck and enjoy planning your event.