Beyond the Gala: In-Person Fundraising To Build Community (and Raise Money)

As traditional galas lose their grip, these in-person formats are energizing donors, deepening relationships, and still driving results.

When I wrote that “the gala is dead,” I knew it would ruffle some feathers. But I didn’t expect the flood of responses from nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and even donors who’ve been quietly (or not-so-quietly) feeling the same way.

The strongest reactions weren’t defenses of black-tie dinners or silent auctions — they were people saying: “Here’s what’s working instead.”

So let’s talk about it. I love being wrong (really, I do!) and so I'm gonna walk back my earlier statement that in-person fundraising events need to go.

Because while the traditional gala may be fading as the centerpiece of nonprofit fundraising, in-person connection is very much alive. The way we gather is simply evolving. What donors want — and what actually raises money — is shifting toward intimacy, authenticity, and mission alignment.

Why the Traditional Gala Is Losing Its Grip

To be clear: the gala isn’t inherently “bad.” For some organizations, it still delivers. But for many, it has become a bloated, high-cost tradition with diminishing returns.

This isn’t just anecdotal — it’s backed by data. According to OneCause’s 2025 Fundraising Outlook, 76% of nonprofits said in-person events were successful in 2024, but those wins increasingly came from nontraditional formats — not galas. And only 13% of nonprofit professionals said galas would be a strategic focus going forward.

Meanwhile, donor expectations have changed:

• People crave meaningful engagement, not pageantry.

• They want to see impact, not just hear about it over dessert.

• They’re looking for community and connection, not another transactional night out.

What’s Actually Working Now?

Here are five event formats that nonprofits are using to build relationships and raise money — backed by data and real-world success stories.

1. Mission-Driven Experiences

What it is: Immersive events like site visits, neighborhood tours, or “day in the life” simulations that put donors face-to-face with the mission.

Why it works: Donors give more when they feel connected to your work. These experiences make your impact tangible. They answer the question, “Where is my money going?” far more powerfully than a slideshow ever could.

Data-backed insight: A report from Daxko shows that 75% of nonprofits met or exceeded fundraising goals through in-person events in 2024 — especially those centered around storytelling and mission transparency.

2. Small Group Dinners or Salons

What it is: Intimate gatherings (10–30 people), often hosted in a donor’s home, with a light meal and a mission-focused conversation.

Why it works: Smaller groups lead to deeper conversations and more meaningful relationships. These events are less about presentations and more about connection.

Tip: Use these to cultivate major gift prospects and identify new board or committee members. According to AFP Global, nonprofits are seeing stronger results when events are tailored to deepen engagement with mid- and major-level donors.

3. Volunteer-Led Fundraisers

What it is: Peer-to-peer events organized by supporters — like hikes, fitness classes, trivia nights, or bake-offs — where donors become the hosts.

Why it works: These events tap into existing networks and build a sense of ownership. They’re also typically low-cost, high-energy, and mission-aligned. According to OneCause, peer-to-peer giving is on the rise, with hybrid and DIY events gaining traction across all donor demographics.

4. “Un-Galas” and Mission Parties

What it is: Casual, creative alternatives to the formal gala — think brewery nights, rooftop parties, or neighborhood potlucks with a purpose.

Why it works: These events are less expensive, more inclusive, and appeal to younger or non-traditional donors. They lower the barrier to entry while still building community around your cause.

Example: A youth development org replaced their annual gala with a rooftop storytelling night and live music. It raised nearly the same amount as their previous gala — at one-third the cost.

Data to support: According to Cerini & Associates, “un-galas” are gaining popularity because of their low overhead and higher donor engagement — particularly with Millennial and Gen Z audiences who prioritize impact over formality.

5. Impact Tours + Meet-the-Team Events

What it is: Quarterly open houses, impact briefings, or storytelling sessions hosted by staff and program participants.

Why it works: Donors get to meet the humans behind the mission — and hear firsthand how their support makes a difference.

Bonus: These events build both donor trust and staff morale. Transparency and connection are a powerful combination.

What These Events Have in Common

No matter the format, the most successful in-person fundraising events today share a few key traits:

• Authenticity: People don’t want to be impressed — they want to be moved.

• Intentionality: The event is tied to a specific donor journey stage or campaign goal.

• Community-building: The best events make attendees feel like participants, not just guests.

• Follow-up: The event isn’t the finish line — it’s the beginning of a deeper relationship.

This Shift Is a Good Thing

Let’s be honest — the gala is a relic of a time when fundraising was more about showmanship than strategy. But the future? It’s different.

It’s more human. More focused. More mission-aligned.

And the data backs it up:

• 76% of nonprofits report strong ROI from in-person events (OneCause, 2025).

• 82% of donors prefer in-person events that are meaningful, informal, and community-focused (Cerini & Associates, 2025).

• Social donors increased giving by 37% in 2024 through hybrid and peer-led models (Daxko).

In other words: gathering still matters. But how we do it — and why — is changing for the better.

Final Word: It’s Time to Get Creative

If the gala feels tired, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Replace the one big night with three intentional gatherings. Try a storytelling walk instead of a sit-down dinner. Let your community help design the experiences they want to be part of.

Because the best fundraising events don’t just raise money — they build movements.

Have an “un-gala” story or a creative event idea that worked for your organization? I’d love to hear it — and maybe share it in a future piece. Reach out to me at sheena@puregrant.com