As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, it is important to consider the risk of your event when deciding how to proceed. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, events smaller than 50 local attendees are still deemed low risk.
When making decisions regarding your events, use the following scale.
1/ Make no changes, continue as planned with your fundraising event.
2/ Provide enhanced communication with attendees to address concerns they may have, and inform them of the heightened precautions your event team is taking in light of COVID-19.
For sample messages to send to your event attendees, click here.
3/ Implement risk mitigation strategies for your event, without cancelling your fundraiser.
For resources to use to communicate this message, click here.
4/ Postpone or cancel your event. With a cancelled event, you can still ensure your organization receives funds through different revenue-generating channels.
Click here to learn how to implement these.
Many Public Health Authorities are recommending postponing or cancelling gatherings over 50 people. Events with less than 50 local attendees are still deemed to be low risk. Please note that this will differ by region or state, check with your local health authority for more information.
If you are hosting in-person events, encourage your attendees to do the following:
- Be diligent with everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, including:
- Stay home when you are sick, except to receive medical care
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
As an event host, take extra precautions for your guests in light of COVID-19.
- Ensure venue cleaning and sanitization is being handled.
- Provide hand sanitizer throughout the venue for your guests.
- Encourage guests to avoid physical contact at your event (opting for elbow touches and waves instead of handshakes or hugs).
- Review your event schedule, removing excess time for networking where attendees will be in close proximity, and opt for elements to be online to also protect your guests.
Review the following resources to make sure your venue is ready.
- WHO workplace readiness guidelines
- CDC Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection Recommendations
As you decide what your fundraising initiatives look like during COVID-19, connect with our team of fundraising specialists.
