Announcing...The Art of the Gala!

Few people understand the importance of connections and networking more than Austin journalist Michael Barnes. Michael is a prolific writer and historian; I trust his insights and instincts on what is ahead, so I was intrigued when he suggested several months ago that I connect with Monica Williams, founder of GivingCity Austin.

Two years ago Monica Williams of GivingCity created a half day workshop focused on delivering networking and fundraising expertise to non-profit professionals throughout Austin. The model proved successful with attendees unanimously wanting to return and asking for more content, suggesting a variety of speakers including engagement from outside of Austin, and to include corporate and individual philanthropists, marketing experts and creatives into the discussion…and a collaboration was born!

Thank you for the suggestion Michael…I am pleased to announce that JHL has partnered with Monica to take Art of the Gala 2018 to the next level. Think of this as *Not Your Momma’s Art of the Gala*! As I tend to do, I have taken the vision for growth and the demands of the community to create the most impactful day possible. I hope you will sign up now because we will sell out and we want you there!

This event is for anyone who invests in, or works for a non-profit organization. Period. About to chair a non-profit board? You should join us! Taking on the role of gala chair or committee member? You should join us! Executive Director, Development Director, Marketing Director, Finance Director…. JOIN US! Leading community affairs and corporate marketing engagement? Yep, you should join us too! This is an event about events – and so much more.

Without fail, I receive at least one email every week asking me to meet with a person or organization about how to be more impactful with their events and/or fundraising efforts. How to make the WOW happen. How to attract new donors while respecting repeat supporters. How to integrate event marketing into overall communications strategies. What to do when a natural disaster (an event) hits your community and your organization’s priorities have to be met while you shift focus to the response the community needs...These are the conversations happening at Art of the Gala 2018. And from now on these meeting requests will be met with – Did you join us at Art of the Gala?!

I hope you will SIGN UP today! To maximize the impact of attendees and create meaningful networking opportunities we will limit registrations. Please don’t delay – if my email is any indication, we will sell out!

Thank you for all you do in your communities. I hope you will share this blog with others and I look forward to seeing you on October 23rd at 8am at the JW Marriott in Austin, Texas.