I’ve always thought that being given a small token of appreciation when donating to a cause was a lovely gesture. Sure, having been in marketing for most of my life this is a well known strategy. But I’m not talking only textbook here – I’m talking about the feeling one gets when they are acknowledged for giving of themselves to a cause (monetarily and/or otherwise).

Because breast cancer has so personally touched me through friends and family I would like to share some tips if you are looking to raise money for this cause. Please let me say that I am not talking about the solicitation of large donations from individuals – that is a whole different art and science. I’m talking about if you are holding an event like a walk or a race, or an event where the cost to attend is less than $75, or simply putting out a request for donations. In such cases keep these things in mind:

* People loved to be ‘thanked’ (its a type of acknowledgment and everyone likes to be acknowledged). It can be as simple as a heartfelt look in the eye and handshake while saying the words “Thank You”. That and a small gift is especially nice.
* Make it personalized. If you can personalize the thank you gift/token to the event or cause it’s a plus. For example, if you are giving glass magnets with a pink ribbon design and you can personalize them so that they say “Fenton 10K Run, 8.02.09″ it is especially meaningful and will be used with pride.
* Tie it to the cause. If you can give something that one associates with the cause so much the better. For example: a pink picture frame, a pink candle, etc.
* Make it something someone would want to receive. Bumper stickers, car magnets and/or buttons are not always the most appreciated of gifts.
* Try to tailor it to who is purchasing. If you know that the event will mainly attract females then giving ‘female friendly’ tokens of your appreciation such as pink manicure sets, pink compact mirrors, pink candles, etc.

Diva Entertains- Copyright 2009

Deb Rosenberg is an event planner and recommends these breast cancer awareness favors that are especially well-suited to fundraising, as found at DivaEntertains.com

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