At Pride Foundation Australia, we’re committed to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community by advancing our equity through targeted projects supported by philanthropic funding. Hosting a fundraiser event for PFA is not only an excellent opportunity to raise fund towards our efforts, but also a chance to foster inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and create a safe and supportive environment for all. In this article, we will explore the idea of hosting a fundraiser bingo or games night for Pride Foundation Australia, offering some tips and ideas to make it a memorable and successful event.
Setting the Foundation
Before diving into the planning process, it’s essential to understand the mission and work of the Pride Foundation Australia. Familiarise yourself with our work within the LGBTQIA+ community. This knowledge will allow you to better convey the purpose of your fundraiser and inspire participants to contribute to our cause.
Planning the Event
Select a date that doesn’t clash with major events or holidays to maximise attendance, and choose an accessible venue that can accommodate the expected number of attendees. Consider factors such as parking, public transportation, and inclusivity.
Set a realistic fundraising target based on the venue’s capacity and the estimated number of attendees. Having a target for funds raised is a useful tool to encourage attendees to contribute towards meeting a shared goal.
Decide on Your Event Format
Determine whether you want to host a bingo night, board games, card games, or a combination of various interactive activities. Choose games that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, fostering inclusivity and creating a sense of camaraderie.
Marketing and Promotion
Utilise various platforms such as social media or local communities and LGBTQIA+ organisations to spread the word about the event. Design eye-catching flyers and posters that highlight the purpose of the event and include the PFA logo to ensure brand recognition. You can register your fundraising event with us via our Fundraising Support Hub, to access a host of fundraising materials including printable and digital assets to support your event.
Reach out to local businesses and queer organisations to form partnerships and secure sponsorships. Seek sponsorships for prizes, venue space, catering, or any other necessary expenses. Collaborating with community members and businesses will not only enhance the event’s success but also help establish lasting relationships within your local queer community.
Plan Engaging Activities and Secure Desirable Prizes
Bingo Night: Bingo is a timeless game that can be adapted to fit the theme of the LGBTQIA+ community. Consider incorporating pride colours and inclusive language into the game. Offer exciting prizes that reflect the values of the community, such as gift vouchers from queer-owned businesses, inclusive books, or artwork by queer artists.
Games Tournament: Organise a tournament-style event with various board games, card games, or video games. Encourage participants to form teams and compete for prizes. Ensure a diverse range of games is available to cater to different interests and skill levels.
Entertainment and Performances
Consider inviting local LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, or drag queens to add additional entertainment to the event. Live music, spoken word performances, or stand-up comedy acts can create an engaging atmosphere while showcasing local talent.
Inclusivity and Sensitivity
Ensure the venue is accessible for people with disabilities, including wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and appropriate seating arrangements. Provide information about accessibility in promotional materials to enable potential attendees to plan accordingly.
Promote pronoun awareness by encouraging participants to wear pronoun badges or stickers. This small gesture fosters inclusivity and creates a safe space for everyone.
Establish a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or hate speech. Communicate this policy clearly to all attendees, and have trained staff or volunteers available to address any concerns or incidents that may arise.
Donate the proceeds
Once your bingo or games night has concluded, tally up the total fund raised and donate the proceeds via our donations page. Publicly share the final amount raised, showcasing the impact of the community’s collective efforts.
Thank your attendees
Send thank-you notes or emails to all donors, sponsors and attendees who contributed to the success of your fundraiser games night. Express your appreciation for their support and emphasise the positive impact their contributions will have to Pride Foundation Australia’s work.
Hosting a fundraiser bingo or games night for Pride Foundation Australia not only raises essential funds but also serves as an opportunity to celebrate diversity, promote inclusivity, and create a safe space for the queer community. By organising an engaging and memorable event, you can contribute to our work, help advance LGBTQIA+ equity, and bring people together in support of equality and love.
