A penny social is a classic and crowd-pleasing fundraising event that blends the excitement of an auction with the simplicity of a raffle. It’s low-cost, easy to run, and perfect for schools, nonprofits, churches, or community organizations. Best of all, it brings people together for a lively, interactive way to support a good cause.
What Is a Penny Social?
A penny social (sometimes called a penny auction or tricky tray) is a raffle-style fundraiser where guests can buy tickets and use them to bid on a variety of items. Each ticket acts like a chance to win the prize.
Here’s how it typically works:
- Attendees buy sheets of tickets at the event.
- They place tickets in containers next to the items they want to win.
- A winning ticket is drawn for each prize at the end of the event.
The more tickets someone puts toward an item, the higher their chances of winning — but everyone gets to participate at a low cost.
Why Penny Socials Are Great for Fundraising
- Affordable and inclusive: Ticket prices are usually low, so anyone can join in.
- Fun and interactive: Guests get to choose which items to bid on.
- Flexible for any size event: Works well for small community gatherings or large galas.
- Easy to organize: Most items are donated, keeping costs low.
This makes penny socials a great choice for groups with limited budgets who want to create a high-energy event.
1. Collecting Prizes
Start by asking local businesses, community members, or sponsors to donate prizes. Gift baskets, gift cards, themed items, and event tickets are popular choices. The more variety, the better — it gives guests more to get excited about.
2. Selling Tickets
Offer tickets in bundles to encourage bigger participation, such as:
- $5 for 25 tickets
- $10 for 60 tickets
This simple structure makes it easy for attendees to spend more without feeling like they’re breaking the bank.
3. Displaying Items
Presentation matters. Display each prize on a table with a container for tickets and a clear description of the item. Add signage with the item’s value or sponsor name to create excitement and visibility.
4. Drawing Winners
At the end of the event, draw one winning ticket per prize. Consider announcing winners live to build suspense and keep the energy high. For larger events, you can also display winning numbers on a big screen or post them online.
5. Adding Extra Fundraising Elements
Penny socials pair well with other activities, such as:
- Concessions or bake sales
- 50/50 raffles
- Silent auctions
- Live entertainment or performances
Final Thought
A penny social is more than just a raffle — it’s a community-building fundraiser that’s easy to host and fun to attend. With clear planning, donated prizes, and a little creative energy, your penny social can raise meaningful funds while giving supporters an unforgettable experience.
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