Could I also get a copy of the letter requesting donations? This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Thanks!

[ 01-07-2003: Message edited by: mads ]</p>

I know you are probably sick of sending out copies, but could I also pester for a copy of the letters? Please and thank you!

Thank you for the list. We walked through our 1st auction last year and netted 10K. Our donations were obtained primarily from local vendors. We also raked in a lot of $$ from teacher donations, ie. lunch w/ your teacher, pe teacher for a day and etc.
I am anxious to use the list and see how much further we can go!

I would appreciate a copy of the donation letter to. Im new to this and dont quite know how to word it. Thanks in advance.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Could I get a copy of your letter? I have one I got pretty good response with last year but, I need a fresh one! Does anyone have good online sources? Thanks, one busy mom!

Wow, I LOVE reading all these great ideas! I have run two major auctions and a carnival with an auction component, so I have some experience in this area. I can tell you that the national chains and celebrities are a long-shot, though it's wonderful when they come through. But your best bet is your local businesses, especially those in your school district. I too used the Chamber of Commerce member list as a starting point. Also, I have a committee of 6-8 people who send letters, then make personal appearances at local businesses, and 3 of 5 business end up giving us something, even if it's only a $25 gift card. It all adds up. Instead of deciding ahead of time what our auciton baskets will include, we wait to see what comes in and what we can bunch together. The big hit every year is a Couples Night Out which includes a free night at a fancy hotel, dinner at a good restaurant, free all-night babysitting, movie or theater tickets and a nice bottle of wine. Sometimes we include a massage for two, if we can get it. Sports stuff is also big in our area, so we work hard to get tickets to the local hockey, baseball and football games. Good luck, everyone!