Chair Name: Cathi Decker
Event Name: Zoofari, Hot Egyptian Nights, 2010- A Gala evening, raising funds to upgrade our animal commissary. Dinner, Dancing Under the Stars, Silent and Live Auctions, Cocktail Entertainment and More.
Date of Event: Aug. 28, 2010
Name of volunteer organization: Friends of Santa Ana Zoo
Nonprofit Beneficiary: Santa Ana Zoo

Vivanista recently sat down with event-chair, and animal love, Cathi Decker, to discuss her upcoming event: Zoofari, and the cause it supports, The Santa Ana Zoo.

What is it about the organization that made you willing to take on the role as event Chair?

The mission statement: To Instill a Passion for the Natural World Through Recreation, Conservation and Education.

What will be special about the event? If this is an annual event, what will be new elements added to this year’s event?

The Egyptian theme and the live camels!

What constitutes success for you with regards to the specific event you’re chairing?

Raising a minimum goal of $60K net for the animal commissary upgrade.

How do you balance the quantifiable goal of raising money with the goal of broadening goodwill?

They go hand-in-hand.

What plans have you made to address problems that may arise?

We have a full staff and volunteer committee ready to jump in as needed.

What background do you have to take on the role as Chair?

I have been coordinating large scale events in Orange County for over 20 years and I started out as a volunteer at the Zoo in 1996.

What will be the most compelling event element?

The chance to meet animals up close during cocktail hour really is a treat.

What is your fundraising motto?

Try it and Track it. Watch the ROI on every single element of fundraising. If it works, double it, if not, get rid of it.

What qualities make an event Chair successful?

The ability to find out each committee member’s talent and plug them in to that area and then celebrate their success.

What external resources do you use in your fundraising efforts (i.e. websites, mentors, etc.)?

All done in-house with Board Member and City contacts.

What was the best charity event you’ve ever attended and why?

Zoofari 2009. The atmosphere with the animals and theme last year were amazing, not to mention the money raised to help the Zoo.

What is one fundraising tip you’ve learned that you’re willing to share?

Conduct exit surveys and try to turn the subjective into the objective. Evaluate and make adjustments for the next year. Keep focused on the goal and don’t get sidetracked.