Hosting a HouseParty-The Planning Process - Download PDF Version

GOALS: Raise money and grow support.

The goal for each party is to raise money in support of John Wallace's candidacy for Congress. Each host should set a fundraising goal that is reasonable for them. This goal is something to aim for, but should not be limiting. Additionally, we want to grow support through the house party movement. To accomplish these goals we ask that each host create and send to campaign headquarters three separate party lists:

1. A list of everyone who attends your party
2. A list of invited guests who were unable to attend but are very interested in staying connected to the campaign; and
3. A list of contributors who donated with a check during the party.

Due to federal guidelines, you will need to collect the contributor's name, address, phone-number, email address, place of employment and occupation.

If your fundraising goal is $500, below is a simple breakdown showing how easy it is to meet that goal:

• 50 people @ $10 = $500 (collect name, phone, address, email, employer, occupation)
• 25 people @ $20 = $500 (collect name, phone, address, email, employer, occupation)
• 10 people @ $50 = $500 (collect name, phone, address, email, employer, occupation)
• 5 people @ $100 = $500 (collect name, phone, address, email, employer, occupation)

STEP 1: Contact the Campaign

• The campaign staff will establish your file, and will be helpful throughout the entire process. As your planning progresses, keep in contact with the headquarters. Make sure to keep accurate RSVP lists and update the campaign regularly. We can help with any problems you might face along the way.

STEP 2: Establish a host committee.

• A host committee can help you with planning the event, and provide you with a list of potential guests.
• If you plan on using a host committee we suggest that you gather a diverse group of people willing to share unique ideas and contacts.
• A host committee can also help with asking for and collecting contributions.
• Everyone on the host committee should agree to help raise the minimum of $500 or more.

STEP 3: Build attendance.

• Each host committee member should develop an invitation list of family, friends, colleagues and anyone else who will support John Wallace for Congress.
• Invitations can be delivered by email or postal service. However we encourage email as a faster and more efficient way to communicate with larger groups.
• Be sure to include the suggested donation on your invitation.
• Consider an alternate venue. Most parties will be held by supporters in their homes, but local pubs, theaters, community centers, and union halls are all ideal locations. Wherever you hold your event, make sure you have access to a speaker telephone for the conference call.

STEP 4: Follow-up.

• Personal email and phone follow-up is ESSENTIAL within 7 to 10 days of your invitation.
• Keep an accurate RSVP list and a separate list of people unable to attend but interested in staying connected to the campaign.
• Contact the campaign with this list, and update the campaign on the planning progress.

STEP 5: Collect contributions.

• Encourage your guests to contribute before the party, preferably online. Online contributions will make welcoming your guests easier and reduce paperwork after the party. When guests contribute online, ask them to include a reference to the house party they plan to attend or give the name of the host that encouraged their donation.
• Checks are always welcome, but cash donations are discouraged (federal guidelines prohibit cash donations over $100).
• Checks can be donated before the party, and should be accompanied with a note referencing the house party they plan to attend or giving the name of the host that encouraged their donation.
• Contact the campaign with a list of donators who gave before the party. Report this and the final RSVP list to the campaign.
• For those who bring checks to the event, make sure the contribution requirements are followed.

All written material pertaining to the event, including your invitations must have the following disclaimer text boxed in the bottom center of the page:

• "Candidates are required to report the name, mailing address, employer and occupation for individuals with aggregate contributions over $200 in a calendar year. Contributions to federal candidates are not deductible for income tax purposes. Corporate checks are not acceptable for federal campaigns. Contributions are limited to $2,300 per individual for each election."
• Printed items must also include the disclaimer, "This invitation was authorized by American Citizens for John Wallace and paid for by (Host Name)."
• For more information, please see "Guidelines for Raising Funds."

STEP 6: Throw your party.

Each host will need to report the cost of his or her party to the campaign office. There are exemptions and limits to spending for these events. For example, we recommend light refreshments. " You will need: o Sign-in table o Contribution forms o John Wallace campaign brochures and stickers " The host committee should determine who will be responsible for various tasks during the evening: - Staffing the sign-in table - Making the follow-up contribution request During the Party " Welcome your guests and thank them for supporting John Wallace in his campaign for Congress. " SIGN-IN: Make sure that everyone has signed in and that you have clear and correct contact information (name, address, telephone, email). " Enjoy yourselves! House parties should be a fun and engaging time with friends. " Follow-up and ASK FOR A CONTRIBUTION.

STEP 7: FOLLOW-UP AGAIN

• WITHIN 72 HRS: All sign-in sheets and contributions must be received by the John Wallace For Congress campaign within 72 hours of the event: American Citizens for John Wallace 143 Longview Drive Chatham, NY 12037
• WITHIN 48 HOURS: Send a brief note of thanks to all of your attendees. "

CELEBRATE your success!