Looking for Silent Auction donations for a charity event in Sept in downtown Mpls. HELP!!?

Question

I'm a part of a committee putting together an event in downtown Mpls. in Sept to raise money for People Serving People, a homeless shelter downtown. I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas or any connections to help me solicit silent auction items for the event. We're looking for some big ticket items that will bring in a good amount of money for the charity. Please let me know if you have any ideas, contacts, or would be able to help me out in any way.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Talk to the staff liason to your committe about getting some of their letter head or getting someone there to put your requests on letterhead.  Go to local businesses (less red tape than chain stores) and request the items.  You don't necessarily have to know someone already to get them to give, especially when it's such a worthy cause.  You might also ask the charity about people and businesses that have been generous in the past, and ask if they're willing to donate.  Local Hospitals and medis, such as radio or TV stations are good places to ask, as are banks and sports teams.  Also try civic groups, like business clubs, or political groups.