This article is part of the Spring 2026 edition of the Volunteer Newsletter, a quarterly update meant to equip, empower and encourage RMEF volunteers. More articles are available on our dedicated Volunteer Newsletter page.

People First: Why Local Chapter Relationships Matter

At the core of RMEF’s success are local chapters doing grassroots work in their own communities. While technology and automation can support our efforts, the greatest strength of a chapter has always been and will continue to be personal relationships, built one conversation at a time.

Local volunteers are the face of RMEF in their communities. They know the donors, the businesses, the attendees, and the land. These relationships don’t happen overnight. They are built through trust, consistency, and genuine connection and they are what sustains chapters for the long-term.

 Relationships Are the Mission Multiplier

Strong chapters understand that cultivating relationships with donors and attendees must remain a priority. It can be tempting to rely heavily on automated communications or merchandise‑driven fundraising, but long‑term, sustainable success depends on something far more personal.

Donors and attendees want to feel connected to the mission and valued for their support. When volunteers take the time to build relationships, fundraising becomes more effective, donor loyalty increases, and community support grows year after year.

 Make Relationship‑Building a Priority

Building relationships must be intentional. Chapters that focus on this effort set clear goals and revisit them regularly during committee meetings. Making relationship‑focused outreach a standing agenda item reinforces its importance and keeps the committee accountable.

 

Some practical goals chapters may consider include:

  • Establishing a deadline to personally contact all donors from the previous year (for example, three weeks prior to the banquet).
  • Setting a measurable goal for securing new donors, either as a committee or individually.
  • Creating an underwriting goal—whether a specific dollar amount or a percentage increase over the previous year.
  • Personally delivering or mailing thank‑you cards to donors after the event.
  • Re‑engaging past table buyers by hand‑delivering table flyers to local businesses and supporters.
  • Reaching out to past attendees who have not yet registered, ensuring they feel personally invited and welcomed.

 

These simple but intentional steps reinforce that chapters value people, not just transactions.

 

Assign Ownership, Build Trust

Many chapters find success by assigning specific donors to individual committee members. When the same volunteer works with a donor year after year, that volunteer becomes a trusted connection to RMEF.

This approach works best when volunteers are matched with donors thoughtfully. A volunteer who regularly supports a local business or knows an owner personally may be the best person to request a donation. Just as importantly, volunteers should support donor businesses throughout the year, not only during solicitation season to demonstrate genuine appreciation.

 Face‑to‑Face Still Matters Most

In‑person interactions remain the most effective way to build trust and secure support. Face‑to‑face conversations give volunteers insight into what motivates donors and attendees, how invested they are in the mission and how best to engage them in the future.

Whether stopping by a local business, talking with an attendee before the banquet, or thanking a donor in person, these interactions reinforce the grassroots nature of RMEF’s work and strengthen long‑term relationships.

 Personal Engagement During the Event

 Donors

Donors want to know their contributions matter. Proper recognition during the event is essential. Donors should be acknowledged in event programs, on signage, and verbally during raffles and auctions. When an item is featured, the donor’s name should be clearly credited by the emcee and/or displayed in live‑auction slides. This recognition reinforces appreciation and encourages continued involvement.

 Attendees

Attendees are the foundation of every successful banquet. A sincere “thank you for attending” at check‑in, checkout and during raffle sales goes a long way.

Some chapters enhance the personal touch by having committee members walk the room during dinner, checking in with tables, asking about the meal, and thanking guests for their support. These small moments create meaningful impressions and make attendees feel welcomed and valued.

 The Role of the Emcee

A strong emcee helps tie everything together. By recognizing donors, thanking attendees, and reinforcing the mission throughout the evening, the emcee ensures no contributions are overlooked and that everyone feels appreciated. Attention to these details protects relationships and builds confidence among supporters.

 Follow Up and Close the Loop

Post‑event follow‑up is where relationships are solidified. Reaching out to donors after the banquet, whether in person or with a handwritten card, provides closure and reinforces gratitude.

Sharing how much their donation raised and how the event supported RMEF’s mission demonstrates transparency and impact. Donors should leave knowing their support mattered and made a real difference.

 Built Locally, Sustained Through Relationships.

Grassroots fundraising isn’t fast, but it is powerful. The strength of RMEF chapters lies in local volunteers who build trust, show appreciation, and invest in relationships within their communities.

By focusing on people first and relationships, chapters create lasting support that sustains the mission now and well into the future.