Introduction
A benefit auction can be a wonderful way to raise money for a cause.  Not only can an auction raise a substantial amount of money, but, by bringing your supporters together for a fun event, it’s also a great way to build your community.
 
Some groups are scared away from trying to hold an auction.  An auction event with dinner and entertainment requires much more planning and effort than a bake sale or raffle.  On the other hand, an auction also has the potential to raise much more money than these other methods.
 
If your group has never held an auction before, though, how do you get started?  What are the jobs to be done?  How soon do they need to be finished?  What are some common pitfalls to be avoided?

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	Introduction
		About This Guide The Rules Help Make This Guide Better
	Before You Start
		Should You Hold an Auction Should You Use Software
	Staffing
		Select a Chairperson Staff the Lead Positions Staff the Lead Positions (2) Pre-event Volunteer Needs Event Day Volunteer Needs Post-event Volunteer Needs
	Getting Started
		Develop a Budget Select a Target Date Develop an Event Schedule Select a Venue and Caterer Select an Auctioneer Select an Emcee Select a Theme Book Entertainment Arrange Storage Space Design & Print Tickets
	Ongoing Tasks
		Procurement of Donations Procurement of Donations (2) Promotion & Advertising Decorations Selling Tickets Create a Slideshow
	Just Before the Event
		Create Packages Print Item Number Stickers     for Packages Design, Print, &     Distribute Catalog Print Gift Certificates Dinner Seating Assignment Print Bid Sheets Print Item Display Cards Print Live Auction     Reporting Slips Pre-event Coordination     with Auctioneer Train Registration     and Checkout Staff Get Auction Sponsored Gifts
	Event-Day Tasks
		Setup Event Day Coordination With Emcee And Auctioneer Check In And Registration Bid Sheet Pick-up And Data Entry Check Out Item Pick-up Clean-up
	Post-event Tasks
		Thank You Letters Leftover Items Close Financial Books & Release the Results
	Raffles
	Games
		Wine Raffle Wine Grab Blackout Bingo Balloons 50/50 Raffle Animal Raffle Simple Drawing Tootsie Roll Drawing Free Dress Passes Star Bingo Scratch Cards Prize Balloons Dinner Seating Plate Prizes