Three Things that Helped our Gala Transcend Expectations
1. Cultivate an impactful program
At Transcend International, we are a data-driven, impact-focused nonprofit organization that looks to technologies, strategic investments, and partnerships to accelerate inclusion in the digital, financial, and educational sectors. We strive to celebrate community stories, not only sharing their triumphs, but also their challenges. Through our work we came to recognize how many communities across the U.S. struggle to access reliable internet. As we began to fundraise for this cause, we put storytelling at the center of our efforts. Who better to help donors understand this issue than those experiencing it first-hand?
Before, during, and after our gala we provided a platform for community members, government leaders, and industry experts to tell their stories about the digital divide. On the night of the event, our program included a short film, speakers, and shared anecdotes that enabled attendees to witness the pressing challenge of digital inequality up close and personal. We even created a podcast to continue sharing voices of those influenced by the problem and those trying to help solve it.
We are confident that our intentional and impactful programming helped us reach our fundraising goals.
2. Lean into your theme
The theme for the 2022 Transcend International Charity Gala was “pie in the sky.” We loved having a theme because it enabled us to create a unique atmosphere during the event, pulling our attendees into the cause! When guests walked in, they were welcomed into a daytime-themed cocktail hour. They then walked downstairs for a golden hour-themed dinner. Finally, the event finished with a starry night afterparty. The décor, music, lighting, and flowers all played a part in making the theme a success. To cap it off, we even had pie for dessert!
They say success is in the details, and we stand by that. Our theme made the gala stand out. We believe it was a night, and a cause, our guests will not soon forget.
3. Have fun
A gala, or another large fundraising event, is all about bringing people together for a meaningful cause. People want to be a part of something – a community, network, or a shared experience – and enabling them to have fun in the process makes it even more impactful! During our Charity Gala we had fun! We laughed together, we danced together, and we took silly pictures.
At Transcend International our vision involves elevating individuals, families, and communities. This extends to our donors, partners, and staff. Incorporating some fun into such an important evening helped us share our mission and vision on a new level. Help your guests experience the hope and joy you seek to provide those you serve; it makes all the difference.
As we look forward to our second annual Charity Gala in 2023, we are eager to make it even better than the first! We hope to continue raising funds to support our efforts to increase equity and inclusion in the financial, digital, and educational sectors. If you are interested in partnering with us, or if you have fundraising trade secrets of your own that you would like to share, do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to working with you.
Transcend International was founded in 2021 as a 501c3 organization emphasizing a community-focused approach to philanthropy. One of our first projects is focused on minimizing the digital divide. While visiting Detroit, our Founder witnessed first-hand how detrimental the lack of broadband internet access has become. There are communities of people across the nation and throughout the world that cannot receive adequate medical care, education, financial access, emergency services, and a slew of other resources because they cannot connect to the internet. Transcend International is facing this feat just like Mount Everest, head on.