Since most companies want 90 days for a request, and our event is middle of March, when do I send the requests? I assume most places start fresh the beginning of a new year, but that would not be 90 days. No idea what to do.

For hotels/motels/ inns, I try to get them that are owned by families! They may be small, but some that have donated to me are very cute! And who needs a fancy hotel when you have other things to put with it (activities). You're not in the hotel except to sleep!! But key in hotels, research them, then contact! Good luck!

Btw what is "tricky tray"?

Yes, what is a "tricky tray"? Also, I am co-chair (2nd year) of a silent auction for a private school. Has anyone heard of or does anyone know, the best way to "auction" off or raffle off "Tuition for the Year"???

Thanks in advance.

We are a private school when entering our EIN keeps saying not registered anyone have any ideas why? Any help would be appreciated.

A tricky tray is a raffle where the items displayed have a corresponding numbered box where the purchased raffle tickets can be placed in. I don't know how it got it's name, but it is catchy!

When applying for In-kind donations, many corporate companies will require that you input your tax id# for verification through the IRS database. If your school or non-profit is not in the database then you will have to call the IRS hotline to have it put in. You will not proceed on many applications without it.

We start sending out letter 6 months prior to our event, but pay special attention to the individual companies requirements. Some request that your application be turned in 6 months, 3 months, or 6 weeks prior to your event so plan accordingly.

Hope this helps!