[kagmbg98]

Our preschool is doing a fund-raiser for a group that raises money for terminally ill children to get their "wishes".(Can I name it??)

What companies are most generous for donating items to silent auction? We are in Plano, TX

Thanks!!

[JustBarbara]

Well, if it is for a local area/ specific state I'd go with the local companies. You'd be surprised how many in the hospitality industry will give away. Any large company in your area would be a great start. If it is for a national 'wish' organization it might be a little more difficult. Good luck

[HopeandaPrayer]

Since you are Texas I would contact HEB. They are very generous and I am sure they would donate something. Also, how about some of the local sports teams? They will often donate tickets, a tour of the stadium or autographed balls, gear etc.

Terri

[Mandy4President]

Around here the Green Bay Packers are VERY generous with what they give for silent auctions. It used to be Brett Favre signed footballs...although I don't think that'll be the case anymore

[kagmbg98]

How funny!!! We lived in WI for 9 years and moved to TX 3.5 years ago. I miss the summer "fests".

[alreadylove2005]

I did a silent auction recently for a family with medical bills and I was just amazed at the number of generous companies. I asked in two different ways - during the day, I would walk and ask businesses personally. Most of them would have me come back a second time. It helped to have a request letter to leave with them, also.

Then in the evening, I went to chamber of commerce websites, got email addresses and sent emails requesting help. At first, I thought emails wouldn't work - it wasn't personal enough - but I got many, many favorable responses. People are busy and I think they liked an email. I always offered to come in and meet with them, if they wanted me to do so. Some did, but most didn't.

We live about 45 minutes from Chicago and I was also surprised at how generous sports teams, businesses, and museums were in Chicago, even though we are a bit far away.

I wanted a bed and breakfast package so I emailed some at least an hour drive away from us and also got favorable responses.

If you have an private airport near you, you might be able to get someone to donate a flight on a private plane - that's always a cool gift. We did a dinner/flight combination.

The old "do unto others as you would want them to do to you" or however that goes...is very true. Picture yourself in the business owners place.

Oh, and I think a BIG help was to have pictures - to show and even in the request letter.

Good luck!