Q: I have a question about the Free One-Hour Ask Event^™. Is there a specific method for inviting people to this event that we should follow? For example, should the Table Captains personally send the invitations, or should they come from the organization? Also, is there a certain way the event should be presented in the invitation?

Johanna in Arizona

A: Because the Benevon Model is a system that is centered around individualized, personal contact, we strongly advise that all potential Ask Event guests be personally invited by Table Captains. This invitation should be done verbally, either in person or over the phone. We have special wording for the Table Captains to use when inviting their guests:

"Hello, ________, I'd like to invite you to join me at my table at the ________ event. This is a free breakfast for people to come and learn more about our organization. Yes, it is a fundraiser, too. You will be asked to consider making a contribution. There is no minimum and no maximum gift requested. It will be the job of the organization to inspire people to want to give. As much as anything, we want people to come and find out about the great programs offered. I would be delighted if you could join me."

Of course the Table Captains wouldn't read this script to their friends verbatim, but it's important that they tell guests it's a fundraiser with no minimum or maximum gift requirement and that part of the purpose of the event is to be educated and inspired.

After people accept the verbal invitation, either your Table Captains or your organization can send out Save-the-Date cards to remind people about the event. Finally, it is very important that Table Captains call all of their guests two to three days before the Ask Event and tell them how much they are looking forward to seeing them at the event. They should not leave a message; they need to personally connect with each guest to hear that they will be attending.

Terry