Fundraising / Paddle Raise    |     11 April 2024

7 Tips For a Successful Paddle Raise (From an Expert with 20 Years in the Auction Industry)

Explore expert tips for your next successful paddle raise

15 minute read

When it comes to fundraising, few moments are as charged with anticipation and hope as the paddle raise. This unique event is more than just an opportunity for guests to pledge their support; it's a powerful way to connect donors directly with their passionate cause. While some may know it as a paddle raise, it goes by many names, including Fund-A-Need, Cash Call, Paddle Raiser, and Special Appeal. Each term, rich with its own nuances, underscores the idea behind this innovative event. 

With decades of combined experience in the fundraising space, the team at Silent Auction Pro put together our top tips based on our industry experience. Read on to learn more about the paddle raise and our expert tips to make your next Fund-A-Need a success.

What is a paddle raise?

At its core, a paddle raise is an invitation to give, presented to the attendees of a fundraising event. Participants are asked to raise their paddles to pledge financial support, typically after hearing about the specific needs or goals their contributions will help meet. The beauty of a paddle raise lies in its simplicity and immediate impact. Unlike traditional auctions where items are bid on, paddle raises focus on direct donations to the cause. 

This method simplifies the giving process and broadens the appeal, allowing every participant, regardless of their interest in auction items, to contribute meaningfully. Its importance goes beyond the boundaries of traditional fundraising by offering a direct, engaging, and highly personal way to support a cause.

The language of generosity: Understanding different terms

A paddle raise is known by many names—Fund-A-Need, Cash Call, Paddle Raiser, Special Appeal—each reflecting the unique spirit and intent behind the initiative. While the terminology might vary, the core purpose remains the same: to encourage direct, meaningful contributions toward a cause.

• Fund-A-Need emphasizes the direct impact of donations, appealing to the organization's immediate needs or cause.
• Cash Call conveys a straightforward request for financial support, emphasizing the ease and simplicity of giving.
• Paddle Raiser and Special Appeal add a layer of urgency and specificity to the fundraising effort, suggesting a call to action that is both personal and collective.

Don’t get caught up in what you call the event. Some of your participants will be familiar with the format, while others will be experiencing it for the first time. Make sure you explain the rules and expectations so everyone can get involved. The various terms for this approach just show how flexible and adaptable a paddle raise can be. 

Seven pro tips for a successful paddle raise event

1. Cater to every donor

Make sure your paddle raise includes giving levels for everyone, from modest to substantial contributors. Start by setting the bar high. Various giving levels allow every attendee to feel they can make a meaningful contribution. This strategy also builds community spirit, where everyone, regardless of the size of their donation, plays a part in the event's success. Make sure to highlight the impact each giving level provides to reinforce the value of every contribution. We want donors to understand how their generosity, big or small, makes a tangible difference.

2. Highlight the impact, not the price tag

Shift the conversation from specific dollar amounts to the real-life impacts of donations. By illustrating what contributions could be achieved—such as re-carpeting a church gathering space or funding a teacher appreciation initiative—donors are invited to visualize the direct outcome of their generosity rather than focus on the amount given. This approach adds a personal touch to the giving experience and encourages everyone to get involved. 

3. Share personal testimonies

Having someone directly connected to the cause speak about the need can profoundly influence the room's energy. Sharing quotes, video clips, or short in-person speeches to share firsthand experiences and connections to the program can turn abstract goals into genuine needs. Their stories bring to life the difference each donation can make, encouraging attendees to open their hearts—and wallets. 

4. Provide visual progress updates

Adding a donation thermometer at your event provides a real-time visual update of your fundraising progress. This thermometer not only adds an element of excitement as it rises but also fosters a sense of collective achievement. Including donor names, where appropriate, personalizes the experience further, recognizing and celebrating each contribution towards the collective goal. Going visual also helps each participant see how their gift impacts the overall goal, which might even encourage them to give a little more. 

5. Provide tokens of generosity

Distributing something eye-catching for donors to wave after contributing can significantly raise the event's energy. This visual cue serves as a sign of generosity, inspiring others to join in. It creates a ripple effect of giving, where the act of one encourages many, leveraging a bit of friendly peer pressure to bolster the paddle raise's success. Some people will want to be the first to participate, while others won’t want to be left out. 

6. Set the tone with music

Never underestimate the power of music to influence mood and behavior. Organizing a playlist that keeps the vibe light and upbeat can make the paddle raise a celebration. Music acts as the backdrop to the event, encouraging a cheerful and generous atmosphere and making the act of donating feel like part of the festivities.

7. Race Against Time

Introducing a time challenge, like reaching a specific donation goal within a set period, can create a thrilling sense of urgency in the event. For example, “Can we raise $10k in 10 minutes?” This approach makes the paddle raise more engaging while tapping into the natural human instinct for achievement and competition. Watching the clock while donations mount adds an exciting layer to the event, encouraging everyone to unite and push toward the goal.

Overcoming paddle raiser objections

Initiating a paddle raise can sometimes feel like proposing a radical change, especially when trying it for the first time or with a new group of people. It's common to encounter resistance, with concerns ranging from being perceived as rude to worrying about pressuring guests. People are used to getting something in return, so it may feel weird to just ask for money. The objections you may get when planning a paddle raise, while understandable, often come from a deeper, almost universal fear of asking for money.

This reluctance is not unique to fundraising. It's widespread, affecting everyone from employees seeking a raise to salespeople closing a deal. The center of the issue is a hesitation to impose, coupled with a fear of rejection—a concern that donors might not value your cause as highly as you do. Of course, what if this very hesitation is depriving your supporters of the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful?

The power of asking

Research suggests that the act of making a direct appeal for support significantly increases the likelihood of receiving a donation. Consider the scenario of a Salvation Army bell ringer: when they simply ring the bell, many pass by without donating. When they make a verbal request for donations, contributions soar. This phenomenon reveals a fundamental truth about human nature—we are inclined to give when presented with a clear opportunity.

The fear that "our donors won’t like that" or "that’s not the culture of our event" often reflects our insecurities more than the preferences of our donors. The reality is that by hosting a fundraiser, you've already set the stage for asking for support. Attendees understand and expect this; they walk through the door knowing they are there to help. Respecting them means giving them the chance to do so.

Be courageous 

Time and again, organizations that are apprehensive about introducing a paddle raise are astonished by their audience's generosity. This success is like the "invisible gold" concept in mining, where valuable resources are present but not immediately visible. In the same vein, your audience has untapped potential—support waiting to be mobilized through a simple request.

By understanding that the pressure isn't to "beg" for money but to offer the chance to make a difference, you can turn your fundraiser into a celebration of communal support instead of a source of anxiety. Every fundraiser is a golden opportunity to connect with your audience and invite them to be part of your organization's journey and impact. They want to partner with you; you just have to give them the chance. 

Embrace the opportunity

Overcoming objections to a paddle raise is about shifting perspectives. It involves recognizing that your duty isn't to shield your guests from the discomfort of being asked to give but to empower them with the opportunity to support a cause that matters. A successful paddle raise lies not in the amount raised but in the collective action it represents—a community coming together to make a real difference.

As you consider incorporating a paddle raise into your next event, remember: the real gold isn't just in the funds collected but in the strengthened bonds between your organization and its supporters. Let's not say "No" on behalf of our donors. Instead, let's invite them to say "Yes" to a cause that benefits from every paddle raised and gift given. 

Building anticipation

Creating a buzz around your paddle raise event starts with capturing the imagination and hearts of your potential donors. Since paddle raises can stand alone or complement other events, focusing your anticipation-building efforts on this aspect can add excitement and participation. One effective approach is to share the potential impact of the paddle raise through stories and visuals. Imagine teasing glimpses on social media of the projects or initiatives that donations will support, such as transforming a community space or funding a crucial program, to get people talking and sharing.

Incorporating testimonials directly linked to the benefits of previous paddle raises adds a personal touch. Brief interviews or messages from individuals or communities who have directly benefited from past events can show the real difference each contribution makes. It's storytelling at its finest, inviting potential donors to become part of a continuing story of change and positivity.

Countdowns are tons of fun and can be particularly effective for paddle raises. A countdown on your website, accompanied by daily posts or emails highlighting different aspects of the upcoming paddle raise—like a sneak peek at an auction item or a story of a past beneficiary—can build a sense of anticipation. This approach keeps your upcoming event in the forefront of participants' minds, ensuring a high level of engagement right up to the moment the paddle raise begins.

Creative recognition for donors

Expressing appreciation for your donors' generosity is crucial; creativity here can go a long way. During the event, why not incorporate live shout-outs? Picture an energetic emcee giving real-time thanks to donors as contributions come in, making each gift feel special and acknowledged.

The gratitude shouldn't stop when the event does. Personalized follow-up messages, whether through email, video, or mailed letters, can provide a warm, sincere thank you to donors, reminding them of the vital role they played. For top donors, a customized gift or an invitation to see the results of their donations firsthand can deepen their connection to the cause, turning one-time donors into lifelong supporters.

Every gesture of thanks aims to make donors feel seen, valued, and motivated to stay engaged with your cause. By infusing your donor recognition efforts with creativity and personal touches, you reinforce the message that every contribution, no matter its size, is crucial to your mission's success.

Silent Auction Pro: Your partner in successful paddle raises

When it comes to ensuring the success of your paddle raise, Silent Auction Pro is on your side. Our platform is designed to streamline the fundraising process, offering a suite of features specifically designed for your events. From customizable online auction catalogs and mobile bidding to detailed reporting and communication tools, Silent Auction Pro has everything you need to manage your event efficiently.

With our user-friendly interface, Silent Auction Pro takes the guesswork out of event management, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—connecting with your donors and maximizing the impact of their contributions.

By leveraging technology to enhance your paddle raise, Silent Auction Pro offers real-time updates, straightforward online participation, and many features that streamline the donation process. Its suite of tools for post-event follow-up ensures that the relationships you've worked so hard to build will continue to flourish long after the event is over. 

If you're ready to transform your fundraising efforts and create unforgettable events that connect with your donors, give Silent Auction Pro a try. Requesting a demo is easy and could be the first step toward exceeding your fundraising goals. After all, when it comes to making a difference, having the right tools by your side can turn a challenge into a rewarding experience.