Do

• Draw up a checklist for selecting your event which should include: name of event, date, time(evening/morning) does it fit with Concern's work/aims? What is the expected income, initial finance required, expected audience, contacts, equipment needed, planning time and publicity
• Good preparation is the key to a successful event - clarify aims and objectives and develop a clear plan of action.
• Draw up an Event Proposal and include an assignment sheet showing duties that need to be done and by who (if have some family/friends helping)
• Make a list of your fundraising sources: friends, family, work, local public, local schools, local pubs, local youth groups.
• Ensure all parties involved in your fundraiser are committed 
• Draw up a strict budget and keep within it at all times - amend the budget early on if there are any changes to the event planning
• Get a permit if you decide to do a collection around your neighbourhood - Concern can provide information and help with this
• Try to get as much for free as you can - use your own and family/friends contacts for freebies and also for incentive prizes for raffles/auctions etc.
• Try to get your event sponsored by a local business
• Advertise your event on local radio, notice boards, in local companies and gyms etc. - you can fax press releases to local papers
• Be original in naming/selecting your event - the more unique the better
• Think of other fundraisers you can have at your event to maximize your income potential e.g. at your barbeque have a raffle or card game competition, karaoke or combine a few fundraisers into the one day charging an entry fee for competitions etc.
• Get permission from your local council to hold events in public areas - field/town square etc.
• Inform your local Police Station of any events you are holding - if in a public area
• Contact Concern if you have any questions or want to pass an idea by us or require further materials
• Remember to send in your money as soon as possible - as the earlier we have your deposit the earlier we can secure your place.

Don't

• Under-estimate the planning involved in bigger events or commitment required
• Over-estimate income or support for your event - anything above your budget is a bonus
• Rely on family/friends - seek confirmation at an early stage for their commitment and degree of involvement
  Under-estimate the success of a small local event
• Lose sight of your target or think you won't reach it - positive thinking - remember through all these events you're making new contacts and new friends!
• Forget to choose a theme for your event
• Forget to have fun!