PROBLEM:
Child Abuse Network (CAN), a Tulsa nonprofit, had been doing a fundraising event called CAN Film Festival playing off of the internationally known CANNE Film Festival. Although the play on words was creative, the event was stale and only existed as a small group going to an IMAX theatre and watching a movie. It failed to generate interest and attendance.
SOLUTION:
We created an actual film festival for children directed movies. It was a way to have children and their parents get creative and involved by making their own films and videos. The whole process kept the cause at the forefront of their minds. The night of the event/awards show at Circle Cinema we had a red carpet lined with paparazzi, reporters and flash bulbs. Child directors and actors were treated like stars with product swag bags just like they were at the Oscar's. Attendance was robust from children to the grandparents that came to see their movies showcased on the big screen. It was a lot of fun and attendees were educated on CAN's mission and the challenges they faced.
RESULTS:
Contributions went from $8,056.00 in the year prior to $45,541.00. That is a 465% increase in donations.
That is what we call a blockbuster.