Event Tips

Check out STAND's How-To Guides!

Decide what type of event will be most effective for the goals you are aiming to accomplish. For example, would a film screening or speaker better suit your purpose for holding the event?
Test your idea out — ask a few friends what they think. Consider what kind of resources you will need to make it a success. Bounce it off your Outreach Coordinator for more feedback and insider tips!
Get a team together, rather than working on your own. Make a list of tasks, find out what skills people have, and try to give them tasks they'll enjoy. Make sure everyone knows what their responsibilities are.
Come up with a back-up plan. For example, what will you do if it rains?
Do research and estimate how many people might turn up. What is the minimum number of people you'll need to make money? What's the maximum number of people you can accommodate?
Think about the best date. Avoid competing with another local function or a major TV event, for example. Agree on a realistic timetable and give each task a deadline.
Think of ways to keep costs down and your proceeds up. Try to get as much as you can for free — whether it's people's time, a venue, food, publicity, printing, commercial sponsorship or prizes.
Bring materials about the organization you're fundraising for - email STAND's fundraising coordinator for tips and sample materials at fundraising@standnow.org!
Remember to thank everyone involved and let them know how much they've raised.
Above all, make it fun!

Join the Eco-Cell Project. Got any old cell phones lying around your room? Donate your old phones, and money can go to GI-NET and STAND!
Set up a donation box around your school, workplace, dining hall or place of worship. Distribute information about genocide (you can request flyers from us).
Ask local musical groups to perform at a “battle of the bands.” Charge admission or set up a donation box at the event.
Have a bake sale or car wash.
Organize a tournament involving poker, video games, a dance marathon, etc. Charge admission from the participants of the event. You can either give a small portion of the proceeds to the winner, or have it be a “benefit tournament” with all winnings sent to the anti-genocide cause.
Local businesses often look to promote philanthropic causes. Educate them on the aspirations of GI-NET and see if they would be willing to make a donation.
If there is an anti-genocide related event outside your area, encourage your religious organization or other group to sponsor your travel expenses.