power of possibilities virtual event · virtual event kim malhotra, vp of marketing &...

Power of Possibilities Virtual Event

Kim Malhotra, VP of Marketing & DevelopmentKristin Ramirez, Events Manager

Who is AbilityPath?• Formerly Gatepath + Abilities United

• Mission: Empower people with special needs to achieve their full potential through innovative, inclusive programs, and community partnerships.

• Vision: A world where people of all abilities are fully accepted, respected, and included.

Power of Possibilities• 500+ person fundraising gala• Cocktail hour, sponsor

reception, dinner, live auction, donation appeal

• Neal Poppin Award winner• Guest speaker• 2020 Event

o 100th AnniversaryoRevenue goal: $1M

Postponing vs. Going Online• Shelter-in-place• 100th Anniversary• Budget

oFiscal YearoAdjusted revenue and expenses

• Contracted vendors

Moving to a Virtual Event• What platform to use?• Production company

oYouTubeoPre-recordedoLive elements

• Fund-a-Future and online auctionoOneCause

Event Webpage

Moving to a Virtual Event• Sponsors

o Increased social mediaoWebsite o Incorporated into event pre-show

and credits

• New FeaturesoChampagne & party boxesoCelebratory videos & picturesoOnline pre-parties

Lessons Learned• Digital marketing

oNo advance registrationoFree eventoWider audience

• Keynote speaker• Condensed program• Production company• Pre-show technical support

Lessons Learned• Fundraising

oAlternative ways to donateoDonations secured in advanceoSignificant live participationoFewer bidders on higher

priced auction items

• Mission moment• Assigned staff roles• Unique environment right

now for online events