Can a short video captivate guests at your fundraising auction? It is well known that videos attract us. Some may even say that video can be addictive. We have come a long way since 1895, when the first cinematic era emerged. This fact was emphasized by what Chad Hurley, CEO and co-founder of YouTube, said on the YouTube blog: “I’m proud to say that we’ve had over a billion views a day on YouTube.” The number is beyond comprehension. How amazing for a company that existed even before February 15, 2005. In less than five years, this company has become a household name and, by most economic standards, is worth over a billion dollars, without However, their product has little in common with the products of an old brick and mortar store.
We all know that visual images are very important in trying to convey abstract ideas, but have you considered using them at your next charity auction? As the saying goes, it helps to put a face with a name. Unless we have been given an image, when our mind thinks of a certain charity, we automatically form our own image in our mind.
Take a Bassett Hound rescue, for example. What image immediately pops into your head: long ears, sad eyes and stubby legs? But what if I showed you a short video detailing the dog’s story, including his name, his sad story, his physical condition, and what his specific needs are? Can you imagine to the? Now I have informed you about the beneficiary of the charity that needs your help. He is now more emotionally and personally involved with the cause of charity.
For another example, let’s look at a less defined charity that supports urban gardening. Before this nonprofit can solicit donations, it must clearly show what the funds are used for. There is no better way than a video to show the young people who are involved in the projects, the families benefiting from the crops, and the change in attitude in the neighborhoods. Donors will see the specific needs and results they can contribute to.
Guests at your charity auction must be knowledgeable and emotionally attached to your organization to become your donors. Videos are an easy and effective way to create “buy-in” for your nonprofit. Short and sweet, they can heighten your emotional appeal above all else.