Charity Auctions: Four Facts For Your Consideration

Charity auctions were started by religious institutions, can feature services, are a fun way of raising money and have several formats with different bidding processes.

Charity Auctions are events arranged by various types of groups and organizations to raise money for a variety of needs and purposes. Donated either by group members or from the larger community served by the group or organization, these items are part of the auctioning, in most cases of charity auctions. All of the pledge money that is collected goes directly to the cause. Here are facts you should know prior to planning a charity auction:

It was started by religious institutions

Various properties and estates were left behind by wealthy patrons and parishioners who died, that were often received through the first charity auctions organized by religious organizations in the 17th and 18th centuries. These properties would get auctioned off and the collected money would be given to the church treasury or used for purposes such as feeding and housing programs for the poor. This practice was once considered to be religious, but it is accepted in today's society. There are many organizations that put on charity events that are a success, such as educational establishments, non-profit foundations, and private social clubs.

Charity auctions can feature services

Unlike the earlier form of charity auctions which involved only the selling of products, many charity auctions now feature services. Service professionals are often glad to participate in fundraisers for a good cause. These individuals will perform their services and turn over the money they earn to the organization or cause they are supporting. One popular type of auction is a people auction, where folks bid on bachelors or bachelorettes. The bidder who willing to pay the highest price gets the chance to go on a date with the bachelor or bachelorette that they bid on.

They are a fun way of raising money

Charity auctions are more exciting. Unlike traditional money-making activities, they encourage the participation and generosity of people, who typically do not gain anything for their contributions. They are more fun than simply asking for monetary donations, since Charity auctions work by challenging the competitive spirit of people.

Varying bidding processes and several formats form part of charity auctions

There are several different ways a charity auction can take place. A silent auction is one popular format that does not involve an auctioneer facilitating the bidding process out loud. Rather than that, the auction guests view times that are displayed and sign their names along with their offers if they see an item of interest. The bidder who submits the highest amount will win the item. It the bidder is not there, then the item or service is given to the next highest bidder. A live auction is another format and has an auctioneer in charge of introducing the various items, individuals or services up for auction. The auctioneer also facilitates the bidding process and announces the amounts involved. A minimum bid if often required in both silent and live auctions to make sure significant money is made.

Participating in a charity auction helps raise fund for an organization or a cause and at the same time the participants too get some kind of benefit.


For more information on Charity Auctions, please check out http://www.charityauctionstoday.com.