Every nonprofit fundraiser has the same goal: bring supporters together, share your mission, and inspire generous giving. Whether you are planning an elegant gala, a silent auction, or a casual donor appreciation evening, the venue plays a major role in how smoothly the night runs and how much you raise. This guide is designed for any nonprofit in the Verde Valley that is planning a fundraising event, from schools and animal rescues to arts groups and community foundations. It also explains how The Connection Room in Old Town Cottonwood can support your next event.
Start with Your Fundraising Goal
Before you book a venue, define what success looks like by setting a dollar goal, a target number of guests, and a clear purpose for the money raised. Donors give more generously when they understand exactly how their contribution will make a difference. Your goal will also shape the format of the evening, whether that means a seated dinner with a paddle raise, a cocktail reception with a silent auction, or a combination of both.
What to Look for in a Fundraiser Venue
The right venue keeps expenses reasonable so more of every dollar reaches your mission, while still giving guests a comfortable, memorable experience. Look for these essential features.
Flexible catering with no minimum
Food and beverage minimums can quickly consume a nonprofit’s budget. The Connection Room allows outside caterers and has no food and beverage minimum. That means you can work with a caterer who offers a nonprofit discount, accept donated food from a local business, or keep the menu simple with appetizers and desserts. A full kitchenette and catering-friendly prep area is included.
Built-in audio-visual equipment
A compelling mission video or slideshow can inspire guests to give generously. Every rental includes a projector and screen, a high-quality sound system, and high-speed WiFi. Use these tools to present impact stories, introduce speakers, run a live auction, or display a real-time fundraising total.
Room for auction tables and check-in
Tables and chairs, lounge seating, linens, and decor are all included. That gives you the furniture you need for a check-in table, silent auction displays, a dessert station, and comfortable seating for guests.
Accessibility and parking
Ample, easy-access parking and a private elevator make it easier for every supporter to attend, including older donors and guests with mobility needs.
How to Set Up a Silent Auction
A silent auction is one of the most popular ways to raise money at a fundraiser. A few simple steps can help it run smoothly:
- Group items by theme. Place travel packages, local dining, and experiences in separate sections so guests can browse easily.
- Use clear bid sheets. List a starting bid, minimum raise, and a “buy it now” price for popular items.
- Leave walking space. Arrange tables so guests can move between items without crowding.
- Announce closing times. Use the sound system to give guests a warning before each section closes.
- Plan checkout early. Set up a separate table for payment and item pickup so the end of the night stays organized.
Local packages are often big sellers. Consider a wine tasting experience in Old Town Cottonwood, a dinner in Sedona, a guided outing in Jerome, or a family day trip to Clarkdale or Camp Verde.
Running a Smooth Check-In Table
First impressions matter, and a well-organized check-in table helps guests feel welcome while giving your team accurate attendance information. Position the table near the entrance, prepare printed name tags in alphabetical order, and use the venue’s high-speed WiFi for mobile bidding registration or digital payment. Assign at least two volunteers so lines move quickly.
The Atmosphere
The Connection Room is a modern, nature-inspired event venue. Arched windows, greenery draped across the beams, ring chandeliers, and a sunburst wall create an inviting setting that photographs beautifully. The sunburst wall also makes an excellent backdrop for sponsor photos or a donor recognition display. Additional decor options are available on request, and the team can recommend trusted local vendors such as caterers, florists, and planners. Browse our portfolio to see the space.
How Many Guests Can Attend?
Capacity depends on your layout. A seated dinner with round tables requires more floor space than a standing reception with auction tables around the room. Share your expected headcount and event format, and the team will help you create a floor plan that fits. Our event venue FAQ has more on layouts and booking.
Pricing and Booking
Rentals are available hourly, half-day, or full-day at $150 per hour plus a 20% service fee. A 50% deposit reserves your date, and the balance is due 45 days before the event. There is a $100 refundable key deposit, and some high-demand dates may require full non-refundable prepayment. Read our guide to event space rental cost in Cottonwood, AZ for budgeting tips, and see our full list of services. If your organization also hosts educational programs, our guide to hosting a community workshop or speaker event may help. For donor networking nights, read our guide to business networking and mixer events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good venue for a nonprofit fundraiser in Cottonwood, AZ?
The Connection Room in Old Town Cottonwood is a private event venue that works well for nonprofit fundraisers and galas. It allows outside caterers, has no food and beverage minimum, and includes tables, linens, decor, and audio-visual equipment. It is centrally located in the Verde Valley near Sedona, Clarkdale, and Camp Verde.
Can we hold a silent auction at The Connection Room?
Yes. Tables, chairs, and linens are included, so you can set up auction displays, a check-in table, and a checkout area. The sound system makes it easy to announce bidding updates and closing times.
Does the venue have equipment for a mission video or slideshow?
Yes. Every rental includes a projector and screen, a high-quality sound system, and high-speed WiFi. These tools support mission videos, speaker presentations, live auctions, and mobile bidding platforms.
Is there a food and beverage minimum for fundraisers?
No. The Connection Room has no food and beverage minimum, and outside caterers are welcome. This helps nonprofits keep costs low and direct more money toward their mission.
How much does it cost to rent the venue for a fundraiser?
The rate is $150 per hour plus a 20% service fee, with hourly, half-day, and full-day options. A 50% deposit books the date, and the balance is due 45 days before the event. A $100 refundable key deposit also applies.
Book a Tour
Let us help you plan a fundraiser that unites your community and advances your organization’s mission.
Address: 637 N. Main St. Suite 2B, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Phone: (928) 456-6200
Email: info@connectionroom.org
Book a tour: https://connectionroom.org/contact/
