One manager said that they receive soooo many donation requests, the only ones they give to are the ones who are persistent and keep calling.
Another one gets annoyed if you call more than once...
There's no way of knowing what's right.
I'm exactly one month out from our auction, and the donations have slowed to a trickle. I'm hoping for the last minute boost that usually happens two weeks before the auction, but the donations have been far fewer than in the past. And the ones that are donating, are donating less:
Newman's own, which used to give coupons for products (worked great in baskets) now gives a book.
Our local MLB team which used to give a four pack of tickets, now sent a box of chatchke stuff - not even good stuff like shirts or hats, just cheap giveaway items.
Still other companies aren't giving unless we book a fun night or field trip.
Sigh, it's a jungle out here!
I usually follow-up with any donors that have given in the past. Sometimes I call them especially if I have a contact name. As far as bigger companies, I have found that no response may be a no or some will tell you that if they are donating, they will send in 2 weeks prior to your event. Often, if asked, I tell the business we need the donation a month before the event so that we can make sure we get the item since alot of the time, you are putting things together last minute.
I'm not having great luck with hotels either. All Los Angeles hotels said no so far. I was trying to get Las Vegas too. I'm sending requests to San Diego ones now too.
I don't really follow up unless they said yes and we haven't received it yet. The bulk of the websites or requirements say not to follow up as they are busy, if you haven't heard yes then it is assumed a no since they get so many requests. I guess you could try. I'm always afraid to annoy them and make them not want to donate anymore.
First I want to say Thank you for all the great ideas. This is my first year as chairperson and this sight has been of amazing help. In your experience do a lot of things come in last minute? How much follow up do you do? We have contacted hundreds of places and when I look at the list I can not believe how many I have not heard from. I know many will not reply at all but do wonder if stuff will just come in last minute. Our event is in May. Thank you in advance!
