What Do I Do if I Can't Get Them to Co-Operate?

[stefani2]

I have organized a TradeShow with other Home Party Consultants ANd it is a fundraiser for a Local Committee. Today, I asked if someone from that committee would be willing to sit at the table (near the front doors) to accept admission/donations AND talk about the Committee (they have given me brochures and the blue-prints for the building). They said, "You chose US as the Fundraiser, so we are not obligated to be there...we have nothing to do with your TradeShow."

Now, am I expecting too much for someone from the committee to help out and volunteer their time? I feel like I am risking myself and the other Consultants of being asked a question about the committee and I feel like it is not up to us to answer those questions.

Any suggestions as to what I should do? Talk to someone ELSE???? - It is NOT up to myself OR the other consultants to answer the questions about this committee OR to educate the public! Why would they NOT want to volunteer their time????...I am going to be handing over a Cheque to them!!!

 

[rennea]

hhmmm.....

Did this organization aprouch you to fundraise for them? How did this organization get involved? It doesn't seem like they really care that your raising funds for them.

 

[stefani2]

I askedI asked them if I could help them out.

I just didn't know they would totally step-back and not even volunteer an hour of their time!.......

 

[LBurke]

Could you ask someone else from the committee? Maybe this person thought you were asking her personally. I seriously don't see why they wouldn't want someone there to answer questions about their org and whatnot...

My other thought is to tell them (nicely) that if they would like the check the least they could do is have representation at the event... it's not your job to raise their funds... you generously offered your time and services to them to raise money they were not expecting or counting on. Is there another organization you could donate to?

Sorry... a little cranky tonight, but really? The lady you talked to is ridiculous

 

[stefani2]

Lol....thanks for the advice. I did get the name and number of the Lady's Boss. I am going to nicely ask him if there is another member of the board who would be willing to volunteer their time.

Thanks for all your help!

 

[Chef Mary Rose]

Jenna, I think you're doing the right thing by contacting the name and number of whomever is above this woman.I can get a little feisty in such situations...(heh) I would ask the President of the committee something along these lines: We are involved in a fundraiser for this committee although we're not true representatives of the committee. It is always nicer to have that personal touch by having someone available at the event to answer any questions or generate interest in your group. What do you think?"If he or she said no, they couldn't do it, then ask for a contact name for people who have questions about the group. In no way would I volunteer to answer any questions about the committee on my own. Get a contact name.And I'll be honest. If the answer is in the negative, then I'd have a small table with the committee's information and not give one iota of thought to it anymore. I'd make sure there was a permanent sign with the contact information for the committee and anyone who had questions, I'd politely point them to that table and say, "The contact information is over there. Sorry, I don't have any more information but I know they'll be happy to answer any questions you have......Now, when would you like to have a really fun night with your friends, eat some delicious food, learn some great cooking tips and earn free products?!!"