Maximizing Participation in Your South Carolina Community Event

Planning a successful community event takes a lot of work! Many people choose to hire professional event planners to help them with the planning details of their community function. Even if you choose to handle the event yourself, proper planning is essential to making your event a success.

Planning Ahead

It is impossible to have a successful community event without proper planning ahead of time. You must first choose a type of event that will appeal to a large segment of the community. Children-friendly or family events are often successful, as are evening events that allow parents an opportunity for a night out. Choose an easily accessible location. Especially with gas prices at an all time high, people may think twice about attending if they have to drive a great distance. Choose a venue in town, if possible. This will offer convenience for your targeted participants and build on feeling of -community” you wish to convey. Keep costs to a minimum – and free if possible. If you are seeking donations, people may be likely to donate more if they don’t have to purchase tickets or pay an entrance fee to the function. Parking is also a consideration and should be carefully planned before the event. Also, for the comfort of your guests, prepare for changes in weather or temperature. If there is a chance of rain, have a back up location or tent on stand by. This will increase the likelihood that your guests will stay despite the weather.

Importance of Advertising

You must let your targeted audience know about your event. A reasonable amount of time should be allowed, so that plans can be made accordingly. Don’t underestimate the importance of advertising and promotion. If done correctly, you can dramatically increase the number of participants at your event. Involving local businesses in promotion and sponsorship is a wonderful way to get the word out and get the community involved. Choose several different media when advertising, as not all people will respond to one type. Consider advertising with a local newspaper or radio station – or asking them to sponsor a portion of the event. The more of interest local businesses have in the event, the more willing they are to promote it.

Get the Community Involved

Getting the community involved and interested in your cause is an important step in getting them to participate in your event. If possible, get local schools and churches involved. Offer to let them sell refreshments or other items at your event as a fund raiser. Again, get as many local businesses involved as possible. Ask the Mayor, Police Chief or a prominent member of the community to speak or act as emcee. Offer prices, contests or other incentives to the participants or donators at your event. Raffles are a wonderful way to raise money and involve the community.

For more information and resources regarding event planning and community events, please visit www.EventPlanning.sc.