Description

Events – Fundraisers and Friendraisers: Beyond the Gala – Creating Fundraising Events that Inspire & Engage

Fundraising events can be powerful tools for engagement and revenue generation—but only if they’re strategically designed with a clear understanding of your bottom line. This session will explore how to create mission-driven events that maximize impact while ensuring financial sustainability. Learn how to assess the true costs of your events, engage the right audiences, and determine whether your event is designed to raise funds, cultivate new relationships, or both. Whether you’re planning a large gala, a community gathering, or a unique donor experience, we’ll share strategies to inspire giving, build lasting connections, and avoid common event pitfalls.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Assess the organization's event goals (fundraising, relationship building, etc.).
• Develop engaging event formats that allow a focus on the organization's mission.
• Create a detailed budget and track expenses meticulously.
• Evaluate event success using key metrics (attendance, net revenue, engagement).

**This is part of a NEW series of trainings. Please sign up your organization for ALL FOUR SESSIONS to receive a certificate of recognition!**

Dates:

June 13 - Corporate Partnerships: Stronger Together – Building Impactful Corporate Partnerships

June 27 - Individual Fundraising – Planned Giving and Major Gifts: Unlocking and Understanding Major Gifts & Planned Giving

July 11 -  Grant Readiness and Writing Tips: Emphasis on Grant Opportunities – Strategies for Success

July 25 - Fundraisers and Friendraisers: Beyond the Gala – Creating Fundraising Events that Inspire & Engage

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS:

Sharon Kitroser - As Managing Partner of Team Kat & Mouse, Sharon Kitroser brings a rich background in communications, marketing, and nonprofit development to her role. With over two decades of experience, she has worked across diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, and social services, honing her skills in strategic storytelling, corporate fundraising, and building partnerships. Sharon’s dedication to training and mentoring her teams has resulted in significant success for those who have collaborated with her. Her expertise spans crafting compelling campaigns, fostering meaningful relationships, and guiding organizations to achieve their fundraising goals. With a collaborative approach and a passion for making a difference, Sharon is committed to delivering innovative support and training and  a real sense of partnership for clients of Team Kat & Mouse..

Amy Mauser - A founding partner of Team Kat & Mouse with nearly two decades of experience building and leading fundraising teams. She has worked with donors and organizations across the arts, healthcare, education, and community impact sectors. Her fundraising superpower is individual giving—helping donors envision their impact while guiding organizations to identify and engage those most likely to champion their mission. Amy has a keen eye for uncovering missed opportunities in spreadsheets and CRM data, and she can also help design a CRM structure that works for you.