Invite Your Guests
Option #1
Design or purchase your own invitations and mail them.
Option #2
Spread the word on Facebook and Twitter, create an event and invite your friends.
Option #3
Download the sample invitation from the Tips & Resources section of this toolkit.
Once you create your guest list, a plan for outreach to inform them of the event should be developed. Whether your guests are informed, invited by phone call, formal invitation, mass mailing, or through the media, it is your decision based upon the number and types of guests as well as the anticipated venue.
Consider including a reply card in your invitation so that guests who may not be able to attend your party can still make a donation.
Download sample reply card here (PDF)
When inviting guests for your Party, consider the Four C’s:
- Connect with people in a friendly way;
- Provide the Context of the event and importance of issue;
- Ask for a Commitment (yes or no—if you get a maybe, find out why and try to address it in a professional way); and,
- Catapult (end on a positive, clear note).
Sometimes, dignitaries can be a great addition to an event as well as a draw for your guests. If you wish, seek to involve dignitaries, local personalities or local heroes who have some relevance to the subject of child abuse and neglect prevention— even if that is as simple as identifying a local celebrity or public official who may have a compelling story about his or her own life. You also might watch the news for dates when celebrities will be in your community for theatrical or concert performances or personal appearances. You may be able to engage them for your event while they are in your area.