Page 64 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2017

GIVING BACK heart strings
story by Lynn Lofton
When it comes to fundraisers in South Mississippi, two things stand out — there are a lot of them and people are generous. Some events are more successful than others. What is the key? Events featuring animals and children have an emotional appeal, and events that feature something different, such as local ‘celebrity’ dancers, may have an edge.
A LOOK AT
“I feel like our event is so well received because it’s clear what our mission is and the beneficiaries of our cause,” says Lori West, CEO of the Humane Society of South Mississippi.
This year’s Rock ‘N Roll Over had a 60’s theme. “We were thrilled that we surpassed our fundraising goal and the event completely exceeded our expectations,” HSSM’s Development Director Katie King said.
Successful Fundraisers
West and King are also aware that having 10 adorable dogs available for adoption the night of the event sets this fundraiser apart from others.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Martini Shakedown raised around $100,000 in previous years but broke a record this year with more than $150,000.
“Our mission just really seemed to resonate with everyone this year and we had so many generous sponsors to help us raise more money so our wish kids would experience the joy that a wish brings,” Director Shellie Moses said. “Our wishes are currently running around $10,000 each. Of course some wishes are less and some more; it all depends on what the wish is.”
Moses says people tell her the Martini Shakedown
is an event they look forward to attending each year. “I believe that from the moment you receive your invitation, you know you will be attending a premiere event that is fun and energetic,” she added, “and you know you will help transform the life of a child by attending and making wishes come true.”
The American Red Cross’ fundraiser, Moonlight & Magnolias, has grown in attendance and in revenue over its 10 years. “One reason has been the support
of presenting sponsor Beau Rivage, who always puts on a great show; their sponsorship keeps our costs down,” says John McFarland, executive director of the Southeast Chapter. “People really enjoy the celebrity dancing and those celebrity dancers sell tickets.”
He adds that the Humanitarian Award that’s presented is prestigious because of the quality of the recipients. “Most of all, the volunteer committee has had excellent leadership every year and devotes months to planning. Jay Huffstatler and Michelle Wilson left a great foundation for us to build on and Michelle continues to play a key part. Red Cross is
a great cause and most people here have seen it at work.”
64 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • December 2017
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net