How to run a successful in-memory event

Part 1: How to Run A Successful In-Mem Event with Stephen Roberts

In-Mem events are a vital income stream for charities and one where there is substantial opportunity for growth.

Building an In-Mem event based on a sense of place rather than any other factor can see a far higher engagement level with the community which in turns generates more income.

Stephen will explain how based on this principle North Devon Hospice took their event from a £5k In-Mem event to a £30k event.

Key learnings from Part 1:

How to increase community engagement
How to increase In-Mem Income
How to make the most of your own geography

Part 2: RNLI Launch a Memory Events with David Crossland

This 15 minute session will explore our in memory events that we hold at the RNLI Support Centre in Poole after we have completed a Launch a Memory Campaign.

We offer a free ticketed event and invite donors down to the RNLI to see their loved ones names up close and personal. The event comprises of several different elements but the main part of the tour is when supporters get to spend 15 minutes with the lifeboat where they can see their loved ones names on the Port or Starboard side decal of the unique Shannon Class lifeboat’s operational number.

This can often be an emotional event for the supporters but also a heartfelt and sentimental one as supporters have the opportunity to see their loved ones name on the side of a Shannon lifeboat and know they will be there saving lives at sea for years to come.

I was involved in the early days of the Launch a Memory campaign and have seen it grown throughout the years and developed over this time. We didn’t use to offer an event for supporters but now these exclusive events are some of the most established events at the RNLI in terms of supporter engagement, feedback and also results. Leading the Launch a Memory campaign I have been able to add to the supporter journey over time and improve the different aspects of the event – this session will explore the planning, delivery and outcome of the event and great ideas we have seen blossom from it.

Key learnings from Part 2:

Hosting an In Memory Event will open the door for future opportunities – i.e. legacy enquirers and pledgers.
How to cater for big numbers at an in memory event.
How to get SLT buy in for an in memory event – if they’re sitting on the fence.