Local events build community and foster loyalty, all while driving fundraising. But some events build community better than others. The key is to produce events where people build new relationships with each other. A good rule of thumb is to look at the seating. If all of the chairs are pointed in one direction, like towards a stage or a screen, then your event is building audience. If the chairs are pointed at each other, then your event is building community. Also, people don’t generally form lasting relationships after a single encounter, so an event series is usually better than a one-off event.

During the event, don’t miss a valuable opportunity to connect your station’s values and your membership program with the attendees. Be proud and bold when you express your community service values and the role membership plays in making your station possible. You don’t have to make an ask (we encourage you to focus on name capture instead.) Like all relationship building, it takes time, and care, and attention, so be planful about the ways you enthusiastically share your passion for service and the gratitude you have for your members!

Here are some ideas:

Live Events

  • Perk Up for Public Radio – Partner with a local coffee shop for weekly meet-ups. A % of sales benefit your station.
  • Yoga for a Cause – Partner with a local studio for weekly sessions, when possible outdoor sunrises or rooftop yoga.
  • Dance-a-thon or Zumba-thon – Weekly high-energy fun and family-friendly.
  • Speaker Series or Panel Nights – Invite experts or those with lived experience.
  • Sip & Paint Night – weekly wine, painting, and laughs with proceeds benefiting public radio.
  • Trivia Nights – Themed rounds, food trucks, and team registrations.
  • Story-Telling Circles – Donation entry fees, prizes, local vendors.
  • Monthly Tasting Tours – Wine, chocolate, or craft beer, hosted by local vendors.
  • Documentary Screening & Discussion – Pair with Q&A or interactive elements.
  • Art Auctions or Exhibits – Showcase local artists or work from clients/community.
  • Dine Out For a Cause – Quarterly partner with a restaurant for a % of sales night.
  • Casino Nights – Poker, blackjack, roulette with donated prizes. Donate to enter. Donations = chips.
  • Annual Brunch for a Cause – Ticketed event with mimosas, live music, and a raffle.
  • Walk & Roll Radio! – 5k Fun Run/Walk with a post event mixer, local vendors.
  • Gala with a Purpose – Formal dinner with live music, local art auction, and storytelling from those impacted by public radio.
  • Themed Costume Party – 1920s Speakeasy, Roaring ‘80s, or Futuristic. Entry by donation.
  • Fore the Cause Golf Tournament – Donation for entry. Locally donated prizes.
  • Open Mic / Talent Show – Include audience voting with donations as “votes.”
  • Lip Sync Battle – Local “celebrities” or community leaders perform for fun.
  • Book Releases – Partner with local book store, % of sales to fund-raising.
  • Chili Cook-Off or Bake-Off – Participants pay to enter or sample and vote.
  • Community Mural Project – Participants donate to paint a square or panel.
  • Pet Parade or Pageant – Donation entry

Virtual Events (useful for organizations that have a dispersed audience)

  • Live-Streamed “Telethon” – Music, interviews, challenges, all online.
  • Online Silent Auction – Include themed bundles, experiences, or exclusive items.
  • Virtual Game Nights – Bingo, trivia, escape rooms, all with entry donations.

More about Cheri.