Q: We are having our first Ask Event^™ this year, so we don't have any returning Multiple-Year Giving Society^™ members to seat at VIP tables. Who should we have sit at VIP tables the first year and in subsequent years?

Caryl in Connecticut

A: Generally, VIP tables at your Ask Event are for former board members, beloved volunteers, and corporate and foundation people, or for anyone else you want to have feel extra special. You must assign a high-level Table Captain to these tables, someone like your organization's executive director, another senior staff person, or the board president. They really do need to be special!

The first year, you may have some current board members who don't want to be Table Captains or who might be skeptical about the model. They are perfect VIP table guests. Also, your existing donors—individuals, corporations, or foundations—will be impressed to see the great showing of support at your first Ask Event.

For more information on filling tables at your Ask Event, visit our archives.

Terry