Parties for fun-(d)-raising

Abstract

An operations budget deficit facing the Oklahoma City District Dietetic Association (OCDDA) was the catalyst for creative problem solving and fund-raising. Noting a decrease in membership and a continued interest in providing the same level of activity for its members, the OCDDA formed a fund-raising committee. The goal of this group was to explore the various methods available to raise funds. Initially the objective of the group was to provide enough funds necessary to create a balanced budget, through consensus the fund-raiser focus shifted from a method to raise funds to one of social networking for the RD practitioner. A series of fund-raising parties were planned: “Jumpin in January”, “Moonlight Serenade”, and an “Mardi Gras Jazz Brunch”. On the basis of the theme, the menu, activities, and cover charges were established. Tickets were sold to members & their guests, vendors, community business people, and others. Food, supplies and local talent were donated by various vendors in the community, thereby decreasing a significant portion of the overhead cost of the parties. The parties were held in various members' homes. “Jumpin in January” was the theme of the first party. With the help of various OCDDA members, prizes were collected from the community for an auction held at the end of the evening. By playing a variety of games throughout the evening, “pig bucks” were earned and used later to bid on unknown prizes. Prizes ranged from tickets to a National Hockey League game, dinners for four, to a bag of frozen corn or a pair of pigs' feet. “Moonlight Serenade” was the theme of the second party. With after 5 dress and a concert pianist playing, guests were greeted to a elegant buffet prepared by a local chef. “Mardi Gras Jazz Brunch” was the theme for the third and final party. Following the mardi gras traditions, costumed guests were treated to some of New Orleans finest cuisine, jazz, and customs. Networking and a renewed interest in OCDDA were just two of the non-tangible outcomes for those planning and/or attending the parties. It was a novel way to bring together different practitioners, vendors, and the community. Not only was a small membership able to raise funds necessary for providing scholarships and continuing education programs, but also recognize the diverse talents and solidify the relationships of its members'.