Should your nonprofit attend community fairs/expos?

As an organizer of many community events and as the leader of a university center, I hear some interesting things.

As we approach another big event (The 2015 Springfield Kids Fest), I have had several conversations recently with nonprofit leaders about the Pros and Cons of participating in community expos/fairs/carnivals.

First, let me acknowledge that some topics are difficult to discuss. I get that. Human sex trafficking, child abuse and neglect, domestic violence, and other similar issues are unpleasant conversations. Few people actually enjoy talking about (or listening to) these topics.

So I’m not surprised that some organizations shy away from public gatherings like community fairs. After all, people go to those to have fun, right? Not to talk about horrific human conditions. 

But instead of shying away from events where people go to have fun, I believe nonprofits should seek out these venues.

When a nonprofit organization has a presence at community gatherings, it accomplishes several four important things: 

1. It says to the public, “Our mission is a community effort.”

 Successful nonprofits never operate in a bubble – we need the entire community to embrace us with their donations of time, money, and cooperation. Without their involvement, we have virtually no chance of reaching our mission. 

1. It exposes the issue to a broader audience.

It’s easy to believe that the problem, whatever particular one you are addressing, is isolated only to “those people,” or certain demographic groups. When you interact with people in large community settings, you have the chance to dispel myths and bring new awareness to your cause. 

1. It engages new people.

 Have you ever noticed that the people who sit on boards and attend fundraising events tend to be some of the same ones? Same types of people?

 Community fairs and carnivals are often attended by people outside of the typical fundraising/philanthropy circle. Talking to them brings in a new, diverse base of volunteers and donors. Beyond that, you’ll have a chance to explain your services to people who otherwise might not even know you exist.

1. It gives you a success platform.

 Those of us in the nonprofit industry seem to be pretty good at tell doom and gloom; telling the statistics and shocking information about hurting people.

 A community fair is a great place to tell stories of success; to inspire the public by letting them know about how lives have been turned around because of your organization, how children and families are thriving now. It can help them see the Issue in a more positive, hopeful light.

 Presence at a community fair or expo in your community will pay off big. Beyond the challenges of getting your staff and board to work on a weekend, the benefits from involvement in these activities will be great for your group and the entire community.