4 Corners Group Gala 2024
Background
The 4 Corners Group hosted its annual Sneaker Ball in Fall 2024 to celebrate and fundraise for its impactful youth programming, including mentorship, life skills development, job readiness, and public speaking. Designed with a Harlem Renaissance theme and student-led involvement, the event aimed to raise funds, engage community leaders, and highlight student growth stories through testimonials, a panel discussion, and auction items.
AE’s Solutions & Results
- Proposed and executed a fun event concept: the Harlem Renaissance + sneaker fusion, including décor and attire guidance.
- Built a detailed run-of-show with intentional student involvement (panel, greeters, testimonials).
- Created signage, QR codes, and display materials for a streamlined auction experience.
- Handled communication with photographers, videographers, and donors for both event production and fundraising.
- Finalized seating, student assignments, check-in support, and key transitions throughout the night.
Event Results
- Fund Raised
- Over $25,000 in total that includes sponsorships, donations, ticket/table sales, merchandise, and auction items.
- Student Visibility & Impact
- Students led panels, shared testimonials, and helped host, allowing guests to directly see the outcomes of their support.
- Community Connection
- The event fostered genuine interactions between board members, donors, and students.
- Many attendees formed new relationships and left inspired.
- Event Experience
- Guests enjoyed the venue, music, and evening flow. The tighter layout of the auction and personal storytelling gave the gala a more intimate and meaningful feel.
Challenges
- Room for improvement in check-in process and data collection at registration
- Limited marketing reach and follow-up
- Low participation and fundraising push from some board members
Tips
- Use a digital check-in system to collect names, emails, and phone numbers in real time
- Launch the event campaign earlier with layered marketing (email, social, text) and consistent reminders
- Boost auction excitement with a live host or timed “auction hour” to drive more bids
Event Details
Client: 4 Corners Group
Location: Governors Club, Kennesaw, GA
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 7:00 – 10:00 PM
Event Type: Semi-Formal Fundraising Dinner and Silent Auction
Target Audience: Program Donors and Participants / those related to participants
