6 Proven Tips on How to Engage Younger Donors at Charity Auctions

Why Engaging Younger Donors at Auctions Matters

One of the biggest questions I hear from nonprofits is:
“How do we get Millennials and Gen Z excited about charity auctions?”

These younger generations give differently than their parents. They value experiences, social connection, transparency, and impact. The good news? With the right strategy, charity auctions are uniquely positioned to meet those needs.

Here are 6 proven tips to make your next auction resonate with younger donors.

1. Make It About the Mission, Not Just the Money

Millennials and Gen Z want to know the impact of their dollars. They respond best when every item and every bid connects directly back to your nonprofit’s mission.

👉 Example: Don’t just auction off “a trip to Mexico.” Instead, frame it as “a trip that funds 50 nights of shelter for families in need.” That clarity and transparency inspire trust—and higher bids.

2. Emphasize Experiences Over Stuff

Research shows younger donors value experiences more than possessions. That means travel packages, behind-the-scenes access, culinary events, or meetings with inspiring leaders will always resonate more than jewelry or luxury items.

When your auction items feel meaningful, social, and memorable, younger bidders are more likely to participate enthusiastically.

3. Lean Into Technology

Millennials and Gen Z are digital natives. Mobile bidding platforms, QR codes, and cashless payments make the process seamless and fun.

If bidding feels as intuitive as using an app, participation and revenue both increase.

4. Build a Social Atmosphere

Not every auction has to be a formal gala. Younger donors often prefer casual, vibrant settings—think:

• Breweries

• Rooftop venues

• Food halls

• Hybrid events mixing in-person + virtual audiences

By creating social fundraising events, you’ll attract younger attendees and keep them engaged.

5. Create Shareable Moments

Younger donors love sharing experiences online. Give them Instagram-worthy backdrops, live entertainment, or creative auction item displays.

When they post photos and videos, your nonprofit benefits from free, organic visibility—and your event gains momentum with their networks.

6. Give Them a Voice

Engagement goes beyond bidding. Invite younger donors to serve on your auction committee, co-chair an event, or help shape the auction experience.

When they feel included in the planning, they’ll bring their energy—and their friends—along for the ride.

Younger Donors Are Already Shaping Philanthropy

Millennials and Gen Z aren’t just the future—they’re already a driving force in philanthropy. By focusing on experiences, transparency, technology, and community, your nonprofit can unlock both immediate revenue and long-term donor loyalty.

Partner With an Auctioneer Who Knows How to Connect Across Generations

At Michael Green Auctions, I design fundraising experiences that resonate across all age groups—helping nonprofits raise more while building lasting donor relationships.

What’s the #1 auction item that always sparks a bidding war?

It’s not a trip or a bottle of wine. It’s an experience money can’t buy—“CEO for a Day.

As a professional charity auctioneer, I’ve seen countless auction items light up the fundraising floor—luxury vacations, wine packages, exclusive dining experiences. But one of the most consistent fundraising auction items I’ve ever seen isn’t a trip or a bottle of wine.

It’s the experience of being “CEO for a Day.”

This item creates excitement, competitive bidding, and meaningful donor engagement because it’s not just another prize—it’s an exclusive auction experience that money can’t buy.

Why “CEO for a Day” is a Fundraising Game-Changer

The most successful charity auction ideas are those that combine exclusivity, aspiration, and emotional connection. “CEO for a Day” checks all the boxes:

• It’s exclusive. Guests know they can’t purchase this opportunity anywhere else.

• It’s aspirational. People love the chance to sit in the corner office and lead—even just for a day.

• It’s memorable. The winning bidder walks away with a story they’ll share for years.

• It’s mission-driven. This experience connects donors directly with your organization’s leadership and purpose.

That’s why “CEO for a Day” consistently sparks bidding wars and raises more money than traditional auction items.

5 Proven Tips to Make “CEO for a Day” Raise Even More Money

1. Frame it as a story—not just an item.

As the auctioneer, I paint a vivid picture: the winner walking into the office, leading a team, and making big decisions. When bidders can visualize themselves in the role, the energy in the room skyrockets.

2. Add personal touches.

Pair the day with lunch or coffee with the CEO, a signed certificate, or a framed photo. These small but thoughtful details add emotional value to the experience.

3. Sweeten the package.

Bundle perks like a chauffeured car service, a private office tour, or exclusive event tickets. A well-packaged item creates more perceived value—and higher bids.

4. Offer it to multiple winners.

If the audience is excited, don’t stop at one winner. Offering “Co-CEOs for a Day” generates more revenue and doubles the fun.

5. Tie it back to your mission.

Have the CEO share how their leadership drives the organization’s impact. This makes the day more meaningful while reinforcing why donor support matters.

Why I Love Auctioning This Item

For me, “CEO for a Day” is the perfect example of what makes live charity auctions so powerful. It’s rare, it’s unforgettable, and it raises serious money—all while building stronger connections between donors and the nonprofit.

When bidders raise their paddles for this item, they’re not just chasing an experience—they’re investing in a story they’ll carry with them forever.

👉 Looking for more charity auction ideas that drive donor engagement and maximize revenue?

Best Practices for Planning a Charity Event That Raises More Money

Charity Event Planning Tips to Maximize Fundraising, Inspire Donors, and Create Impact

Whether you’re hosting an intimate fundraiser, a nonprofit gala, or a large-scale charity auction, the success of your event depends on more than just good intentions. Behind every high-impact fundraising event is a clear strategy, a strong team, and proven best practices.

Here are 10 essential charity event planning tips to help you raise more money, delight donors, and keep supporters coming back year after year.

1. Start with Purpose

Every great charity event begins with a clear mission. Ask yourself:

• Are you aiming to raise a specific dollar amount?

• Do you want to attract new donors?

• Is your focus on building awareness for your cause?

Defining your fundraising goals will guide every other decision, from the venue to the program to your event marketing strategy.

2. Build the Right Team

Nonprofit fundraising is a team sport. Recruit passionate people with defined roles in logistics, donor relations, sponsorships, marketing, and auction planning. A strong team—whether staff, volunteers, or both—ensures your charity event runs smoothly and efficiently.

3. Plan Early and Strategically

The best fundraising events are organized months in advance. Lock in your venue, secure your charity auctioneer, and develop a timeline that covers:

• Sponsorship outreach

• Auction item procurement

• Marketing and PR campaigns

• RSVP management and donor follow-up

Pro tip: Always add extra time for the unexpected—because something always comes up.

4. Prioritize Donor Experience

Your guests are more than attendees—they’re supporters who want to feel connected to your cause. Focus on creating a seamless, inspiring experience:

• Smooth check-in and check-out

• Warm welcomes and personalized touches

• Compelling stories woven into the program

• Real-time examples of donor impact

When donors feel valued, they give more generously.

5. Hire a Professional Charity Auctioneer

As a professional auctioneer I doesn’t just “sell items.” I energize the room, build momentum, and inspire competitive giving. An experienced benefit auctioneer can dramatically increase bids and is one of the best investments you can make for your nonprofit gala’s ROI.

6. Embrace Hybrid and Digital Tools

Today’s donors expect flexibility. Consider hybrid events or livestream options to broaden your reach. Use mobile bidding platforms for silent auctions, leaderboards, and donor engagement before, during, and after your event.

Pro tip: Open online bidding a few days early to build buzz and competition.

7. Curate Exciting Auction Items

When it comes to charity auctions, experiences often outperform objects. Think exclusive dinners, backstage passes, or luxury getaways. Keep your auction item list curated and high-quality—fewer exciting items often raise more than a long list of filler.

8. Market Your Fundraising Event with Meaning

Your charity event marketing should inspire action, not just provide details. Use storytelling, beneficiary testimonials, and strong visuals across email, social media, and print. Encourage guests to bring friends and support peer-to-peer fundraising.

9. Make the Mission the Star of the Night

Weave your mission into every detail—signage, speeches, videos, and even décor. Feature stories from beneficiaries and remind donors exactly how their generosity creates impact. When your mission shines, giving comes naturally.

10. Follow Up and Thank Generously

The work doesn’t end when the last guest leaves. Strengthen donor relationships by:

• Sending personalized thank-you notes within 48 hours

• Publicly acknowledging sponsors, donors, and volunteers

• Sharing fundraising results and impact quickly

Thoughtful follow-up builds trust and sets the stage for future donations.

Charity Event Success

Planning a successful fundraising event is equal parts strategy, creativity, and heart. With a clear mission, thoughtful preparation, and the right team, your nonprofit event can go beyond raising money—it can inspire action, deepen community connections, and create lasting change.

Looking for expert guidance, engaging event programming, or a proven charity auctioneer to maximize your fundraising? Reach out to Michael Green Auctions and let’s start planning your most impactful event yet.

Charity Auction Engagement: Top 8 Tips for Handling Chatty Guests & Keep Donors Focused

As an auctioneer, I thrive on energy, excitement, and participation. A lively room is what makes a charity auction unforgettable and—most importantly—successful. But there’s one challenge I face at nearly every fundraising event: too many people talking while the auction is happening.

At first, it may seem harmless—guests catching up with friends, enjoying a drink, or networking. But excessive chatter quickly becomes a problem. Not only does it distract other bidders, it also makes it harder for guests to hear me, stay focused on the live auction items, and ultimately, bid generously.

So, how do we handle this delicate situation without dampening the festive atmosphere? Here are some of my tips to maximize engagement at charity auctions:

1. Set the Tone Early

Before the live auction begins, have the emcee, host, or nonprofit leader ask for everyone’s attention and explain the importance of quiet during bidding. If this message comes from the organization—not just the auctioneer—it carries more weight and emphasizes the fundraising mission.

2. Use Lighting and Sound to Your Advantage

Good event production can make or break a fundraising gala. A strong microphone, well-placed speakers, and spotlighting the auctioneer help command attention. Raising the house lights slightly during the auction signals to guests that this is the “main event” and discourages side chatter.

3. Close the Bar During the Auction

Nothing competes with a bar. If guests are lining up for drinks, they aren’t paying attention to the stage. Closing the bar during the charity auction (and announcing it will reopen afterward) is one of the simplest ways to keep the room focused.

4. Keep the Auction Moving

Guests talk when they get bored. That’s why I make sure the auction moves at a brisk pace. Long, drawn-out descriptions or pauses are an invitation for chatter. Energy, pacing, and rhythm are key to maintaining donor engagement.

5. Enlist Staff and Volunteers

Event staff, board members, and volunteers can act as “ambassadors” in the crowd, politely asking talkative tables to lower their voices. A gentle reminder from a peer is often more effective than the auctioneer addressing it from the stage.

6. Use Humor and Charm

When the room starts to buzz too much, I often break the tension with humor. A lighthearted comment—“I know the cocktails are flowing, but this is where the bidding gets fun!”—can bring focus back without embarrassing anyone.

7. Create Incentives for Listening

Sometimes I’ll tease an unexpected bonus for bidders or drop a surprise announcement mid-auction. Keeping the audience on their toes gives them a reason to stay tuned in, which increases auction participation.

8. Accept That Not Every Guest Will Be Fully Engaged

At every event, there will be guests more interested in socializing than bidding. That’s okay. The goal is to create an atmosphere where the majority are engaged, excited, and ready to participate generously in the fundraising auction.

Chatter is natural at social events, but with preparation, production, and a touch of finesse—including brightening the lights and pausing bar service—it doesn’t have to derail your event. When handled well, the room stays focused, the energy stays high, and the dollars raised for your nonprofit fundraising goals soar.

Why Hire Michael Green as Your Auctioneer

6 Traits to Look For in a Great Charity Auctioneer

Whether you’ve hosted a dozen fundraising events or are planning your very first, I know from experience that choosing the right auctioneer will make or break your fundraising results. If you’ve never worked with one before, you might not know exactly what to look for.

Here are six traits I believe every great charity auctioneer should bring to the table—traits I live by in my own work:

1. I’m Committed to Raising as Much Money as Possible

Your goal is to raise the most money possible for your cause, and my goal is exactly the same. I don’t just show up for a few hours with a microphone. I work closely with you to develop a smart day-of-revenue strategy that includes the live auction and the pledge moment.

I want to understand your organization, your mission, and your fundraising goals. Then I bring proven techniques to help you maximize giving—while keeping guests smiling as they do it.

2. I’m Passionate About Engaging Guests with Your Cause

Your event isn’t just about auction items—it’s about your mission. I see myself as your ambassador, helping people feel connected to your organization. Share stories and details with me ahead of time, and I’ll weave them into the evening so guests don’t just bid—they give with purpose.

3. I Work the Room Before the Auction Begins

My job doesn’t start when the first item goes up for bid. Long before that, I’m out in the room greeting people, warming up the crowd, and building energy. The more connected I am to your guests, the more effective I’ll be once the auction begins.

4. I Stay Informed on Auction Technology

Fundraising events today are powered by technology. Mobile bidding, registration tools, checkout systems, and live screens all play a role. Even if I’m not running the tech directly, I make sure I can recommend trusted partners and platforms that enhance the donor experience and keep the dollars flowing.

5. I Know Your Auction Items Inside and Out

Before your event, I study your auction list carefully. I learn the details, I put the items in the best order, and I think about how to tell stories that spark competition. When I present your items, I want them to come alive so guests can’t resist raising their paddles.

6. I Add Value Beyond the Auction

I never want my fee to feel like a burden. That’s why I often donate a wine tasting experience to be auctioned off at events. It’s another revenue-generating lot for you—and a way to offset my fee. My goal is always to reduce your stress and increase your success.

When you’re looking for a charity auctioneer, you deserve someone who’s more than just a “bid caller.” You deserve a partner who understands your mission, keeps your guests engaged, and is laser-focused on raising money for your cause.

That’s the standard I hold myself to—and it’s why I love doing this work.

THE POWER OF THE PLEDGE: HOW PADDLE RAISES TRANSFORM CHARITY AUCTIONS

In the world of fundraising events, one of the simplest — and most powerful — tools is the paddle raise, also known as a fund-a-need or direct pledge. Unlike auctions where donors compete for items, the paddle raise is all about generosity for generosity’s sake. And when done right, it can generate more revenue than any single auction lot.

Here’s why the pledge works so well — and how to maximize its impact at your next charity auction.

Why Paddle Raises Work

The magic of the pledge lies in its clarity and inclusivity. There’s no competition over who “wins” an item — everyone can participate. Guests are inspired by the mission, not the merchandise.

• Collective Momentum: When paddles start flying, the energy is contagious. Donors are inspired to give when they see their peers raising hands.

• Mission-First Focus: The pledge centers the cause, reminding guests why they’re there.

• Broad Participation: Unlike high-ticket auction items, anyone can join in at a giving level that’s comfortable.

Best Practices for a Powerful Paddle Raise

1. Tell a Compelling Story
   Start with emotion. Have a beneficiary, leader, or short video illustrate exactly what donations will achieve. When guests see the impact — a scholarship funded, a family housed, a meal delivered — their generosity grows.

2. Set Giving Levels Strategically
   Begin at a high level to inspire leadership gifts, then work down:

• $10,000

• $5,000

• $2,500

• $1,000

• $500

• $250

• $100
  This tiered structure ensures everyone can join, no matter their capacity.

3. Secure Anchor Donors in Advance
   Ask one or two major supporters to commit before the event. When the auctioneer announces, “We already have a generous $10,000 pledge to kick things off,” it sparks momentum.

4. Use a Skilled Auctioneer
   A professional auctioneer knows how to read the room, pace the appeal, and encourage participation without pressure. They turn generosity into excitement and ensure no giving level is overlooked.

5. Highlight Tangible Impact
   Connect each level with a concrete outcome. For example:

• $5,000 = funds 50 counseling sessions

• $1,000 = provides laptops for 5 students

• $250 = covers meals for a family of four for a month
  Donors love to see their dollars in action.

6. Keep the Energy Up
   Recognize donors as pledges come in — clapping, cheering, or displaying names on a screen. Celebration fuels momentum and makes generosity feel joyful.

7. End with Gratitude
   After the final pledge, pause to thank the room. A heartfelt acknowledgment ties the giving back to the mission and leaves donors proud of what they’ve accomplished together.

The paddle raise is often the most lucrative part of a charity auction — sometimes raising more than all live lots combined. By focusing on storytelling, inclusivity, and skilled facilitation, you can inspire donors to give boldly and generously.

At Michael Green Auctions, we specialize in crafting and delivering powerful paddle raises that maximize impact. Done right, this moment becomes the emotional heart of your event — and the biggest driver of revenue.

Ready to make your next paddle raise unforgettable?

7 Ways to Kick Start Your Fall 2025 Fundraiser

As the crisp autumn air settles in, charities and nonprofits have the perfect opportunity to launch impactful fundraising campaigns. Fall 2024 presents unique chances to engage supporters and drive donations. Here are seven proven strategies to help you kick off your fall fundraisers effectively:

1. Leverage Seasonal Themes: Embrace the fall season with themed events such as harvest festivals or Halloween galas. Seasonal themes resonate well with attendees, as shown by a 2023 survey from the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, which found that 68% of donors prefer seasonal-themed events for their engaging atmosphere (Nonprofit Leadership Alliance).

2. Host a Virtual Auction: Virtual auctions have gained traction post-pandemic. According to Charity Navigator, online auctions raised an average of 30% more than traditional in-person events in 2023 (Charity Navigator). Incorporate unique items and experiences to attract bids from a broader audience.

3. Launch a Social Media Campaign: Utilize social media platforms to create buzz around your fall fundraiser. According to a 2024 report by the Chronicle of Philanthropy, campaigns with active social media promotion see a 20% higher engagement rate (Chronicle of Philanthropy).

4. Organize a Community Run/Walk: Fall is ideal for outdoor events. A well-organized community run or walk can boost both awareness and funds. A study by the Association of Fundraising Professionals reveals that such events typically increase donor participation by 40% (Association of Fundraising Professionals).

5. Create a Matching Gift Challenge: Encourage large donations by offering to match contributions up to a certain amount. Research by Double the Donation highlights that matching gifts can increase total donations by up to 50% (Double the Donation).

6. Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses for co-branded events or donation drives. According to a 2024 report by Nonprofit Quarterly, 52% of successful fundraisers involved local business partnerships (Nonprofit Quarterly).

7. Engage with Email Campaigns: Craft compelling email campaigns to reach your existing donor base. The 2023 Nonprofit Email Benchmark Report indicates that targeted email campaigns have an average open rate of 22%, significantly higher than generic appeals (Nonprofit Email Benchmark Report).

By implementing these strategies, your fall 2024 fundraisers can achieve notable success and make a significant impact.