Former Presidents Clinton and Obama appeared together at a fundraiser that contributed $26 million to President Biden’s re-election campaign.
In the city Jason Sudeikis claims as his hometown, a nonprofit raised $750K thanks to a fundraiser featuring several former castmates from the Ted Lasso show.
While you likely don’t have the star power to gather three U.S. presidents or a cast of blockbuster TV stars –nor the expectations to raise the kind of money they did — you can still adapt the concept to your scale. Consider who is a “former somebody” with connections to your organization that may be enough of a draw to attract an audience for your message.
Former athletes could lend their name recognition to their schools or hometown youth sports teams. Retired actors could help raise funds for their hometown’s community theater. Former politicians or judges could become engaged to benefit where they clerked or studied law. Retired sports announcers or newscasters could contribute their voice talents and visibility to help a nonprofit. The founder of an organization could return for an event.
You don’t need to rely on current stars to help your organization shine. Consider re-engaging those with a storied past or local reputation to help boost your message (and hopefully, your bank balance as well).
