The start of a new year is typically a time of reflection on what works and what needs to be changed in order to continue. Fundraising events are no exception. While we love traditions, this is a good time to assess whether those traditions are still relevant or a fresh perspective is needed.

This year more than ever, innovation will be required to be able to meet fundraising goals. In a year of change and of new thinking, it is time to see if a boost of vitality is required for your fundraising events.

It seems to us that every organization thinks it has to have an annual fundraising "gala" on a weekend night, with a silent and live auction being the highlights of the event. Maybe this is a good time to see whether a new twist is needed in that formula. Here are a few of our suggestions:

1 Forego the auction, or, at least, don't assume you have to have one Consider whether the time and effort is worth the funds generated. Is there another element you could use that would utilize less volunteer and staff time, to allow them to concentrate on other aspects of your organization?

2 If you do have an auction, make it reflect your organization's mission You want your event to stand out in your attendees' memories. If they see the same items as in other auctions, the auction itself will not be memorable nor will guests associate your organization with that item afterwards.

Tailoring the auction to a theme that imparts your organization's mission is a relatively easy way to make your event stand out. The Learning Lab's auction of books and the Humane Society's pet-themed silent auction are great examples of this approach.

3 Consider changing the day or time your event is held Having an event on a weeknight, or during breakfast or lunch can mix things up a bit. There are a couple of months each year that are packed with fundraising events, so take a look at the calendar to see what else might be competing for attention that day.

4 Make conveying your mission the priority for the event

Too many fundraising events have little to no connection with the cause. If your charity focuses on education, for example, is there a way you can incorporate that into the event?

It might be as simple as having live auction items that have some educational piece and labeling them like you would classrooms or grades. Every touch you have that can remind the audience of the cause and why they are there will encourage their generosity and keep your cause in their mind for a long time afterward.

5 Make the event fun! There are many venues and ways to make your event sparkle and stand out. There are benefits to keeping your usual venue and maintaining consistency, but a well-hatched plan to change things up can also reinvigorate the event and your donors' passion for the cause.

Brainstorm a fun raffle you can add that maintains some excitement throughout the evening and helps raise funds. Look at adding some inexpensive decorations that can reinforce your theme and remind donors of the cause. Hire one of the local bands to play before or after the event for dancing or just making the mood more festive.

Many thanks to all of the terrific nonprofit organizations in our community that help so many of our neighbors! We wish everyone a very happy, healthy and generous 2009!

COMING EVENTS

Special Olympics Idaho and 2009 World Winter Games Resolution Revolution: Saturday, Jan. 10; 342-1441.

Junior Achievement Bowl-a-Thon: Saturday, Jan. 31; www.idaho.ja.org or 378-1519.

Saint Alphonsus Inside Ride: Saturday, Jan. 31; www.saintalphonsus.org/Foundation_events.html or 367-3997.

Opera Idaho Mardi Gras Masked Ball: Saturday, Jan. 31; www.operaidaho.org or 345-3531.

Do you have fundraising events for your 501(c)(3) organization you would like the divas to hear about, or nominations for spotlights on shining stars who make Treasure Valley nonprofits sparkle? E-mail info@divasforadifference.com.