Presentations should be simple and not overly formal. When you are ready to present your organization here is a list of topics that you should be prepared to discuss:
- Start by stating your name and the name of the local charity/non-profit/worthy cause you would like to receive funding.
- Where is the local charity/non-profit/worthy cause located?
- What is the mission of the local charity/non-profit/worthy cause?
- What purpose does it serve? (Who? What do they do? How do they do it?)
- How would they benefit from receiving the donation? How will the funds be used?
- Describe the program that you would like funded. Provide some background information for program.
- Who will it impact? How many will it impact?
- How essential is this program – what will our community be missing if this program does not get funded?
- What percentage of funds goes directly to their mission? What percentage goes towards overhead and marketing?
- What is the organization’s operating budget? How does the organization sustain their budget (ie., grant support, individual contributions, etc.)
- Are they a recognized 501(c)3?
- End with a heartfelt ask and a thank you.
*Presenters are given five minutes to present, followed by a 3 minute Q&A.
Positive Effects
Power & Excitement
- There is an amazing sense of power and excitement in the room. And many people feel as if they have personally written a check for $10K.
- Many people are, for the first time, entering the world of philanthropy through this model. “Philanthropy breeds philanthropy.”
- At each meeting, 100 people in the community are learning about the needs of their neighbors and the agencies and organizations that serve them.
- Each organization presented has the opportunity to showcase its projects. Even if it is not chosen, it has exposure to 100 people.