Tag: paddle raise

Gala Fundraising That Actually Moves the Needle: A Benefit Auctioneer’s 2026 Playbook for Meridian, Idaho Events

Sub-title: Build momentum, reduce friction, and inspire giving—without turning your night into a sales pitch

A successful gala isn’t “good food + a few auction items.” It’s a carefully paced experience where your guests feel connected to the mission, confident about how to give, and excited to participate. For fundraising chairs and event coordinators in Meridian and the Treasure Valley, the biggest wins often come from tightening the run-of-show, upgrading event-night systems, and using a live auction + paddle raise (fund-a-need) in a way that feels heartfelt and effortless.

As a second-generation benefit auctioneer, Kevin Troutt helps nonprofits create that momentum—pairing compelling on-mic leadership with auction consulting and event night software solutions so you can raise more while your team stays calm and in control.

Why fundraising auctions succeed (or stall) in 2026

Most gala underperformance isn’t because donors “weren’t generous.” It’s because the event created friction—long check-in lines, confusing bidding rules, slow transitions, or a paddle raise that felt awkward and unstructured. In 2026, guests expect a mobile-first experience for browsing, bidding, and giving—yet they still respond best when the live program feels personal, confident, and mission-forward.

Recent sector reporting using large datasets (millions of bids across thousands of nonprofit auctions) has shown meaningful performance lift when mobile bidding replaces paper processes—especially when the experience is simple, fast, and guided well. The takeaway: technology helps, but leadership and pacing convert.

Choosing the right fundraising mix: silent auction vs. live auction vs. paddle raise

Each revenue stream has a different job. When you assign the right job to the right segment, the whole night runs smoother—and feels less “salesy.”
Segment Best for Common pitfall Fix that improves results
Silent auction Broad participation; “fun shopping”; items with clear value Too many items, weak descriptions, bidding confusion Curate fewer, stronger packages; great photos/descriptions; mobile bidding that’s easy
Live auction High-energy moments; premium experiences; mission-aligned “wow” lots Too many lots; long transitions; items without emotional pull Keep it tight (often 3–6 great lots); rehearse spotters; crisp storytelling
Paddle raise (Fund-a-Need) Pure mission funding; major gifts + broad participation Unclear ask; weak visuals; poor pledge tracking Tie levels to impact; trained team for pledge entry; keep it emotionally focused
The best Meridian gala programs typically treat the paddle raise as the “heart” of the night, with the live auction adding spark and the silent auction giving everyone a way to participate.

Step-by-step: How to plan a higher-performing benefit auction (without adding stress)

1) Set one “true north” goal—and build the run-of-show around it

Decide what matters most: net revenue, new donors, major-gift cultivation, or funding a specific program need. When the goal is clear, your timeline decisions get easier (and the mic moments feel intentional instead of frantic).

2) Curate your auction items like a retail collection, not a donation pile

More items does not automatically mean more revenue. A curated silent auction—built around your audience’s interests—often produces higher bidding density and fewer “no-bid” disappointments. Prioritize:

• Experiences (private dinners, guided outings, behind-the-scenes access)
• Premium local packages (Treasure Valley staycations, date-night bundles)
• Mission-forward items (student art, client-created pieces, “meet the program” moments)

3) Make giving frictionless with event-night software (and a clear plan for using it)

The best technology isn’t “fancy”—it’s invisible. Streamline check-in, bidding, and checkout so your staff isn’t chasing clipboards while donors are ready to give.

Practical upgrades that routinely improve donor experience:

• Pre-registration links and card-on-file options to reduce lines
• Mobile bidding for silent auction with automatic outbid notifications
• A clean process to record paddle raise pledges quickly and accurately

4) Script the paddle raise around impact levels (not random dollar amounts)

A strong fund-a-need is specific and visual. Give each giving tier a clear outcome your guests can picture (and proudly support). Example:

$10,000 — Underwrites a full semester of program delivery
$5,000 — Expands services to an additional cohort or family group
$2,500 — Provides supplies, transportation, or scholarships
$1,000 / $500 / $250 — Creates broad participation with real impact

5) Rehearse the “handoffs” that usually cause awkward delays

The fastest way to lose the room is dead air. Practice these transitions:

• Welcome → dinner service → program start
• Mission story → paddle raise → quick thank-you
• Live auction lot-to-lot pacing (spotters and item runners)
• Final call → checkout instructions

Quick “Did you know?” fundraising facts

Mobile bidding can outperform paper bidding when it’s implemented with clear instructions, good item write-ups, and strong event flow—because guests bid more often and don’t have to hover by a sheet.
Starting bids and increments matter. Many fundraising pros use start bids around a fraction of fair market value and steady bid increments to keep energy and bidding velocity high.
Paddle raises succeed when the story is the star. The more your giving levels feel like a direct extension of mission impact, the less the ask feels transactional.

Local angle: what works especially well in Meridian and the Treasure Valley

Meridian-area events often bring together a mix of long-time local supporters, business owners, families connected to schools, and donors who care deeply about community outcomes. A few region-specific considerations can help your gala feel “made for here”:

• Lean into community identity: highlight local partnerships, local vendor support, and impact stories rooted in the Treasure Valley.
• Offer strong “staycation” packages: guests frequently bid well on convenient, high-quality local experiences.
• Keep logistics smooth: many attendees come straight from work or family commitments—fast check-in and simple bidding matter.
• Make sponsorship feel meaningful: include mission touchpoints (impact statements, live thank-yous, brief recognition that doesn’t drag).

If your audience includes both seasoned gala-goers and first-timers, a professional benefit auctioneer can help “carry the room” so nobody feels lost, pressured, or overlooked.

Ready to strengthen your gala plan (and calm the chaos)?

If you’re planning a gala, benefit dinner, school fundraiser, or community auction in Meridian—or anywhere your mission takes you—Kevin Troutt can support you with benefit auctioneering, auction consulting, and event night software strategy that fits your team.

FAQ: Benefit auctions and gala fundraising in Meridian, ID

How far in advance should we book a fundraising auctioneer?

Many organizations book 6–12 months out for peak gala seasons. If your date is sooner, it’s still worth reaching out—your event can often improve significantly with focused consulting, tighter scripting, and better tech setup even on shorter timelines.

Do we need mobile bidding for a successful silent auction?

Not always—but many nonprofits see better participation and easier operations when guests can bid from their phones. The key is implementation: clear instructions, strong item descriptions, and a run-of-show that keeps attention on the live program when it matters.

What’s the ideal number of live auction items?

Many galas perform best with a short, high-quality live auction—often just a handful of standout lots. A tighter set keeps energy high and protects the paddle raise (which is typically your most mission-driven revenue moment).

How do we keep the paddle raise from feeling awkward or pushy?

Anchor the ask to specific impact levels, keep the message short and sincere, and make the mechanics simple (paddles, pledge cards, or fast entry into your event software). The tone should feel like an invitation to participate in mission—not a pressure tactic.

Can Kevin help even if our organization is outside Idaho?

Yes. Kevin Troutt conducts fundraising auctions nationwide and also supports teams with auction consulting and event-night strategy that can be tailored to your venue, audience, and goals.

What should we do if we don’t have enough auction items?

Don’t panic-buy or overload the catalog. Focus on fewer, stronger packages and shift emphasis toward sponsorship, a well-structured paddle raise, and mission moments. A curated auction paired with a compelling fund-a-need can outperform a crowded silent auction.

Glossary (quick definitions for gala planning)

Benefit auctioneer: An auctioneer who specializes in nonprofit fundraising events, combining bid calling with mission storytelling and donor engagement.
Paddle raise / Fund-a-Need: A live giving moment where attendees commit to donation levels (often starting high and stepping down) to fund a specific mission need.
Mobile bidding: A system that allows guests to browse items and place bids using a phone link or app, with automatic bid updates and checkout tools.
Run-of-show: A minute-by-minute schedule for the event program (welcome, dinner, stories, paddle raise, live auction, checkout).
Spotter: A trained volunteer/staff member who watches the crowd during the live auction or paddle raise to confirm bids/pledges and communicate with the auctioneer.

How to Run a High-Performing Benefit Auction in Nampa, Idaho: A Practical Playbook for Bigger Bids & Better Donor Experience

A smoother event night, a stronger mission moment, and fundraising that feels good to your guests

If you’re planning a gala, benefit dinner, school fundraiser, or community event in the Nampa–Boise area, the auction portion can be either your biggest win or your most stressful hour. The difference usually isn’t “better donors”—it’s better structure: the right mix of items, a clear giving moment, smart bidding mechanics, and a confident auctioneer who can keep the room moving while protecting your mission tone.

This guide is built for fundraising chairs, executive directors, and event coordinators who want reliable results—without turning the night into a high-pressure sales pitch. The focus keyword is charity auctioneer Boise, but the strategy applies whether your guests are in Nampa, Meridian, Caldwell, Boise, or traveling in for a destination gala.

What makes a benefit auction “work” (and why some stall out)

Most benefit auctions underperform for predictable reasons: too many items (bidding gets diluted), confusing item values, slow transitions, unclear rules, and a giving moment that feels like an afterthought. Strong events do the opposite: they create momentum on purpose and then convert that energy into a clean, high-trust ask.

The three money-moments to design intentionally

1) Silent auction (participation + momentum)

Silent auction revenue is often a “nice add,” but it plays a bigger role: it gets hands moving, phones out (if mobile bidding), and guests thinking, “I’m here to support.” Winning here sets up stronger giving later.

2) Live auction (attention + excitement)

Live auctions are about pace and confidence. A tight catalog of high-interest items beats a long list every time—especially in a room with dessert service, bar lines, and program transitions.

3) Fund-a-Need / Paddle Raise (mission + maximum generosity)

This is where many Idaho galas see the biggest lift—because donors are giving to impact, not “stuff.” When the story is clear and the levels are well-built, guests feel proud to participate.

Optional table: a simple way to right-size your catalog

Too few items can cap revenue; too many items can dilute bids. One practical rule-of-thumb often used in the nonprofit space is about one auction item per four attendees for a healthy bidding environment. (That’s a starting point, not a law.) (afpglobal.org)

Estimated attendees Silent auction items (starter range) Live auction items (starter range) Notes
150 30–40 4–6 Keep live short; build the giving moment strong.
300 60–80 6–8 Add categories; avoid “random stuff” that won’t move.
500 90–125 8–10 Consider staggered closings if using mobile bidding.
800+ 140–200 10–12 Hybrid strategy + strong software ops matter a lot.

Tip: If your audience skews toward mission-first giving (schools, rescue missions, youth programs, scholarship funds), don’t be afraid to run a slightly smaller silent catalog and put your planning time into your Fund-a-Need.

Bidding mechanics that quietly raise more money

Set opening bids that invite participation

Many organizers unintentionally “price out” their own silent auction by setting starting bids too high. A common best practice is setting opening bids around 25–50% of fair market value (depending on item type), so more guests jump in early and momentum carries the final price. (soapboxengage.com)

Use staggered closings if you’re using mobile bidding

When all silent items end at the exact same time, bidders can only fight for one or two favorites—everything else closes quietly. Staggering item close times (often in short intervals) keeps bidders engaged longer and can increase the number of last-minute bids. (soapboxengage.com)

If you go mobile, plan for Wi‑Fi and guest support

Mobile bidding can reduce volunteer workload and often performs well, but it depends heavily on connectivity and clear instructions. Build in signage, a help table, and a backup plan if reception is weak at your venue.

Step-by-step: a benefit auction timeline you can actually use

8–12 weeks out: lock the strategy

Decide what matters most: silent revenue, live excitement, or Fund-a-Need impact. Then build the run-of-show around that priority. If your committee is stretched thin, consider professional fundraising auction support so the event night plan stays realistic.

6–8 weeks out: procure with purpose (not panic)

Prioritize items that your specific Nampa/Boise-area audience loves: local dining, outdoors, weekend getaways, family experiences, and “access” (private tours, behind-the-scenes, hosted experiences). Many fundraising leaders also have success sourcing unique experiences through board and community connections and bundling modest donations into attractive packages. (afpglobal.org)

3–5 weeks out: build your catalog and giving levels

Write item descriptions like a buyer, not a committee: what it is, what’s included, any restrictions, and why it’s special. For Fund-a-Need, create giving levels that match real impact (example: “$250 funds X,” “$1,000 funds Y”), and decide whether you’ll do a straight paddle raise or add a match/challenge gift.

Event week: simplify, rehearse, and protect the pace

Walk the room, confirm internet/Wi‑Fi, confirm check-in/check-out roles, and rehearse the program transitions. The smoother the operations, the more confident donors feel saying “yes” in the giving moment—because they trust you to steward the gift well.

Quick “Did you know?” facts that help you plan smarter

Did you know? If a donor’s payment is more than $75 and they receive goods/services in return, the organization generally must provide a written disclosure statement with a good-faith estimate of fair market value (quid pro quo rules). (irs.gov)

Did you know? Mobile bidding can lift results versus paper bidding in many settings; one industry summary referenced analysis from an auction platform dataset estimating roughly 30% more revenue with mobile bidding compared to paper bid sheets. (afpglobal.org)

Did you know? If you stagger silent auction closings, you’re not just adding drama—you’re giving bidders time to redirect attention after losing one item, which can increase total bid activity near the finish. (soapboxengage.com)

Local angle: what works well around Nampa (and the wider Treasure Valley)

Nampa-area events often bring together multi-generational supporters—families, business owners, civic groups, and longtime donors who care deeply about community outcomes. Here are a few Treasure Valley-friendly ways to build connection and keep bidding strong:

Choose items that match how people live here

Outdoor recreation, family experiences, local dining, and “hosted” community nights tend to resonate because they feel usable—not aspirational in a way that sits unused.

Keep the mission message clear and short

A strong testimonial plus a concrete “your gift does this” moment often outperforms long program segments. Guests give more readily when they understand exactly what changes because of them.

Don’t underestimate operations

Quick check-in, clean item display, clear bid rules, and smooth check-out protect the donor experience. This is where event night software and good floor leadership can pay off.

CTA: Want a calm event night and a stronger giving moment?

If you’re planning a gala or benefit auction and want a proven event-night partner—someone who can keep the room energized, protect your mission tone, and help your committee feel prepared—reach out to Kevin.

FAQ: Benefit auctions, gala giving, and working with a charity auctioneer

How many live auction items should we run?

Many events perform best with a tighter live catalog (often 6–10 items), chosen for broad appeal and easy storytelling. If the live auction runs long, energy drops—and your Fund-a-Need can suffer.

Is mobile bidding worth it for a Nampa or Boise gala?

It often can be, especially for saving volunteer time and keeping bids active. The make-or-break detail is connectivity (venue Wi‑Fi/cell service) and having simple instructions plus a help station.

What opening bid should we use for silent auction items?

A common approach is setting opening bids around 25–50% of fair market value, adjusting based on how “hot” the item is and how unique it feels to your audience. (soapboxengage.com)

Do we need to provide donors a tax disclosure for auction purchases?

Often, yes—especially when a donor receives goods or services in exchange for a payment that’s more than $75 (quid pro quo contributions). Your disclosure should communicate that the deductible amount is limited to the amount paid above fair market value, and it should include a good-faith estimate of the FMV. (irs.gov)

When should we bring in an auctioneer or auction consultant?

If your event includes a live auction, a Fund-a-Need, or a fast program with tight timing, getting professional guidance early can reduce stress and improve results—especially around run-of-show, donation flows, bid increments, and the giving script.

Glossary (helpful terms for auction committees)

Fund-a-Need (Paddle Raise)

A direct appeal where guests give toward a specific mission need (often in set giving levels), usually without receiving a tangible item in return.

Fair Market Value (FMV)

A good-faith estimate of what an item or experience would sell for in the open market. FMV is used to set bid ranges and to support donor receipts/disclosures.

Quid Pro Quo Contribution

A payment that is partly a donation and partly in exchange for goods/services (like dinner, tickets, or auction items). Charities may need to provide a written disclosure when certain thresholds are met. (irs.gov)

Staggered Closing

A mobile/online auction method where items close in a timed sequence rather than all at once, keeping bidders engaged longer near the end. (soapboxengage.com)

How to Run a High-Energy Fundraising Auction (and Paddle Raise) That Raises More—Without Making Guests Feel “Sold To”

A practical playbook for gala chairs and nonprofit event teams in Boise, Idaho—and anywhere you host supporters

Fundraising auctions can be magical when they’re run with purpose: the room feels connected, the giving is joyful, and donors walk out proud of what they did together. They can also go sideways when the program drags, checkout turns into a bottleneck, or the “ask” feels unclear.

As a non profit fundraising auctioneer and second-generation benefit auctioneer, Kevin Troutt helps organizations design event-night flow, messaging, and technology so your live auction and paddle raise (fund-a-need) feel confident, warm, and mission-first—while still maximizing revenue.

Quick takeaway
The highest-performing benefit auctions don’t rely on hype. They rely on clarity (what we’re funding), momentum (tight program pacing), and frictionless giving (smart event-night software + clean checkout).
What we’ll cover
Program structure, live-auction pacing, paddle raise giving levels, item selection, technology workflow, and a Boise-specific planning lens—so you can run a smoother gala with stronger results.

1) Start with the outcome: what are you funding tonight?

When donors know exactly what their gift does, giving becomes a decision—not a guess. Before you debate décor, menus, or auction catalog layouts, lock in:

Your “funding story” in one sentence: “Tonight, we’re funding ______ so that ______.”
3 proof points: one stat, one short beneficiary story, one local relevance tie (especially helpful for Boise-area supporters).
A clean goal: a number your team can rally around (and celebrate on stage).
Strong event-night leadership protects energy and momentum—because energy is currency at a fundraising event. (That principle shows up consistently in modern gala best-practice guidance.) (calltoauction.com)

2) Build a program that rises—then lands clean

Your run-of-show should feel like a great story arc: welcome, connection, rising momentum, a clear giving moment, then celebration and an easy exit. A common high-performing flow looks like this:

Program Segment Goal What to watch for
Check-in + mingling (silent auction open) Ease + confidence Lines, Wi‑Fi strength, guests unsure how to bid
Dinner + mission moment Connection Speeches too long, unclear “why now”
Live auction (short, curated) Momentum + fun Too many items, slow spotters, unclear increments
Paddle raise / Fund‑a‑Need Impact giving Levels that don’t fit the room, no match/challenge
Checkout + thank-you Frictionless close Long lines, receipt confusion, missing donor data
One detail that changes everything: keep the live auction intentional and limited. A smaller number of high-demand packages often outperforms a long list that drains attention right before your paddle raise.

3) Live auction: choose items that create a “yes” in the first 10 seconds

Your live auction is not a yard sale—it’s theater with a purpose. The best live-auction items are:

Easy to understand fast: What is it? Who is it for? When can it be used?
Experience-forward: trips, local VIP experiences, “once-a-year” access, hosted dinners.
Low fulfillment risk: clear dates, clear redemption steps, no complicated shipping.
Priced for your room: if your crowd tops out at $2,500, avoid stacking five $10,000 items.
If you’re in Boise, leaning into the local identity can help: weekend getaways within Idaho, outdoor experiences, chef-hosted dinners, behind-the-scenes access, or local sports/arts packages—anything that feels “Boise proud” and easy to redeem.

4) Paddle raise (Fund‑a‑Need): the simplest way to raise more

The paddle raise works because it’s pure mission giving—no fulfillment, no shipping, no “who won.” It’s also the moment that rewards good pacing and great storytelling.

A practical giving-ladder structure is to begin with your top levels and step down to accessible levels, celebrating every tier as a win. (blog.charityauctions.com)

A simple paddle-raise setup that fits many gala rooms

Example levels: $10,000 → $5,000 → $2,500 → $1,000 → $500 → $250 → $100
Pro move: pair each level with a concrete impact line (what it funds), and keep those lines short enough to land in one breath.
If you can secure a match or challenge gift (for example, “dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000”), you often see participation and average gifts climb because donors feel their impact multiply. (fundraisingip.com)

5) Event-night software: remove friction from giving (and protect your team)

Donors don’t remember your spreadsheet; they remember how the night felt. Modern auction tech can reduce lines, simplify checkout, and improve reporting—especially when you use it from registration through receipts. Many platforms emphasize mobile bidding, faster checkout, and integrated event purchases because those features directly reduce friction on gala night. (bloomerang.co)

Event-night tech checklist (non-negotiables)

Pre-registration: collect payment details and bidder numbers ahead of time when possible.
Wi‑Fi + rehearsal: test devices, check-in flow, and payment processing in a full run-through.
Backup plan: keep a minimal paper fallback for bids and payments in case tech fails.
Receipts + donor data: confirm your team can export clean data for stewardship next week.
Guidance from auction-software and fundraising experts consistently stresses rehearsals, strong venue connectivity, and a backup process to prevent checkout chaos. (blog.charityauctions.com)

6) Compliance note: protect donors and your organization

Benefit auctions involve purchases and donations, and those two categories don’t always get the same tax treatment. If a donor pays partly for goods/services (like a ticket, dinner, or auction item) and partly as a contribution, it can be considered a quid pro quo contribution. The IRS requires a written disclosure statement for quid pro quo payments over $75, including a good-faith estimate of fair market value for what the donor received. (irs.gov)

Your takeaway: plan your catalog descriptions, FMV notes, and receipts early—so your team isn’t scrambling after the event.

7) Step-by-step: a smoother auction timeline (from 6 weeks out to event night)

6–4 weeks out

Confirm revenue goals, finalize your funding story, and curate live-auction items.
Secure a match/challenge gift for the paddle raise if possible.
Choose (or confirm) your event-night software and build a single source of truth for item data.

3–2 weeks out

Write short, high-clarity item descriptions and redemption rules.
Train volunteers (check-in, spotters, checkout).
Lock your run-of-show so the program starts on time and moves with intention.

Event week + event night

Do a full tech rehearsal at the venue (Wi‑Fi, tablets, processors).
Confirm giving levels are printed, projected, and consistent with what’s said on stage.
End the night with an easy checkout and a strong thank-you—your last impression matters.

Did you know? Quick fundraising auction facts that surprise teams

Momentum beats volume. A shorter, better-paced live auction often sets up a stronger paddle raise than a long auction that drains the room.
Checkout is part of stewardship. If checkout is painful, you may win revenue but lose enthusiasm for next year.
Tech rehearsal prevents “mystery problems.” Wi‑Fi and payments are the two biggest avoidable stress points.
Receipts matter. Quid pro quo disclosures are a real compliance requirement for many gala transactions. (irs.gov)

Boise, Idaho angle: how to make your gala feel local (even if guests come from all over)

Boise supporters tend to respond well to authenticity—clear impact, genuine gratitude, and a program that respects their time. Consider:

Local auction packages: Idaho getaways, outdoor experiences, curated local dining, and community VIP moments.
Local proof: mention the specific Boise-area need you’re meeting and the community outcomes you’re driving.
Local sponsors: highlight them in ways that feel like gratitude, not advertising—short and sincere from the stage.

If your organization is hosting a destination-style weekend for donors traveling into Boise, keep redemption logistics simple—clarity raises bidder confidence.

Explore: Learn more about Kevin’s approach to fundraising events on the Fundraising Auctions page, or get background on his experience on About Kevin.

Want a calmer event night—and a stronger fundraising finish?

If you’re planning a gala, benefit dinner, school auction, or community fundraiser in Boise or nationwide, Kevin Troutt can support your run-of-show, auction strategy, and event-night software workflow—so your mission stays center stage.

Request a Consultation

Prefer to start with details? Visit the Benefit Auctioneer page for a quick overview.

FAQ: Fundraising auctions & paddle raises

How many live-auction items should we run?
Many events perform better with a curated set of “headline” items rather than a long list. The right number depends on your room, timing, and donor capacity—but the guiding rule is: protect momentum so the paddle raise has energy.
What are good paddle-raise giving levels?
A common structure starts high and steps down so every guest has a comfortable entry point (for example: $10,000 → $5,000 → $2,500 → $1,000 → $500 → $250 → $100). (blog.charityauctions.com) The best levels reflect your audience—use what your donors have shown they can do, not what you hope they’ll do.
Do we still need an auctioneer if we use mobile bidding software?
Software can streamline bidding, checkout, and receipts, while a skilled benefit auctioneer can lead the room, maintain pacing, and keep the giving moment mission-focused. Many organizations use both for best results.
How do we prevent long checkout lines?
Pre-registration, tested payment processing, strong venue connectivity, and a trained checkout team are key. Tech rehearsals and backup plans are widely recommended to avoid last-minute chaos. (blog.charityauctions.com)
What is “quid pro quo” and why does it matter for galas?
If a donor receives goods or services in exchange for part of their payment (tickets, dinner value, auction items), the deductible portion can be limited. For quid pro quo payments over $75, the IRS requires a written disclosure statement that explains the deductible amount and provides a good-faith estimate of fair market value for what the donor received. (irs.gov)

Glossary (helpful event-night terms)

Paddle Raise / Fund‑a‑Need
A live giving moment where donors raise paddles (or bid numbers) to donate at set levels, typically tied to specific mission impact.
Fair Market Value (FMV)
A good-faith estimate of what a donor received (meal value, item value). Often used for receipts and quid pro quo disclosures. (irs.gov)
Quid Pro Quo Contribution
A payment that is partly a donation and partly a purchase of goods/services; charities may need to provide written disclosures for certain payments. (irs.gov)
Mobile Bidding
A digital bidding method (web or app) that allows guests to bid, buy, and sometimes check out from their phone—often reducing lines and boosting participation. (bloomerang.co)