HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010 06-23 CCCM
BROOKLYN CENTER
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23, 2010, 5:30 PM
MEETING NOTES
Keith Lester called the Centennial Celebration Committee meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PRESENT:
Keith Lester, Sharon Kephart, Brett Hildreth, Joy Reinhart, Dr. Duane Orn, Phil Cohen, Wallace
Bernards, Sue Low, Sue LaCrosse and guest Gary Lewis.
Keith Lester introduced Gary Lewis who has been a professional fundraiser for 46 years.
Gary Lewis gave a presentation on how to raise money. He said you need a strong mission
statement and need to decide what you are going to do with the money. In other words, how are
you going to use the money? You need to be ready to answer that question very specifically. He
suggested making a list before you go out. Keith Lester is suggesting we raise $100,000. Gary
Lewis said there should be a breakdown of the $100,000. Some people like to donate in memory
or recognition of someone. Everyone gives for a different reason.
He suggested having gift giving levels.
Sue LaCrosse will check with assessing for a list of Brooklyn Center businesses. Gary Lewis
said Target likes to be a leader and are more likely to give on a one time basis.
To go after 209 prospects, you will need a list of 1,000 names. The best way is the face-to-face
call – 80% successful. The second best way is a personal phone call – 30% successful. Hosting
a house party, such as at someone’s house or restaurant is an idea. The least successful way to
raise money is a general mailing – 5% if you are lucky.
Gary Lewis also suggested asking service clubs because they have to give away 90% every year.
Matching gifts are great. Lutheran Brotherhood sometimes does this. Invite key people, such as
the mayor, lawyers, ex mayors and doctors. It is suggested that a doctor call a doctor, a lawyer
call a lawyer, etc.
Gary Lewis said you need to be clear on your mission and do they get a choice of what they want
to spend their money on. People want to give money for things, something they can see, taste or
touch. They want to be sure their money is used properly. The more specific you are the better
chance you will get yes.
It was suggested we put together a historical book or booklet.
Gary Lewis said you cannot ask someone for a gift unless you have given something yourself.
He said we could consider a major kick off celebration, which would be well organized and well
planned. He suggested putting an article in the paper that the committee is putting together a
$100,000 fundraising campaign.
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When contacting organizations, they may say they are tapped. You may suggest they support
you because this is a onetime thing.
Never announce how much you have until you have ½ the money you need. 80% of people give
in November and December.
NEXT MEETING
Next meeting is July 7, 2010, 5:30 p.m. in room 221 of the Community Center.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted, Sue LaCrosse, City Liaison
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