I overheard a conversation at a recent community event that I feel compelled to address.
The speaker was reminiscing about “days gone by” how, in past years lines for fundraising community feeds were long and constant throughout the event.
Here we were just coming into the event and only a handful of people sat at the numerous tables set and ready for diners. As we ate, maybe two or three came in after us, but there were no long lines of people waiting to get their food from servers at the window.
It struck me that no one from the organization sponsoring the feed had contacted the Devils Lake Journal to list their event in the Upcoming Events – which is free – or paid for an ad – what could perhaps cost $50 or less – to let people know about the days, times, location and cost of the event.
I would know, because those requests get channelled to me. Each issue of the newspaper I update the free listings and often attend the events too, to take a photo to go with it next year, if I know about the event in advance.
One of my co-workers and I did attend the event, it was right next door at the KC Hall. That’s how I came to hear the individual who lamented the “way it used to be” when people waited in long lines to enjoy a meal to support a club or organization.
If you rely on only Facebook posts to “advertise” your events, you might end up with fewer people knowing about it and fewer attending. If you advertise and take advantage of the free advertising the Journal provides, you might end up with a better turnout than you expected.
Our local radio stations, also, are great supporters of events and they would also be a good place to reach out to support your events.
We want everyone to be successful in our community – service clubs, benefits and other sponsoring organizations – therefore next time you plan a fundraiser to help a club or individual – remember that the Devils Lake Journal, Country Peddler and our local radio stations are also part of the community and we are all glad to promote your events.
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