Turn Your Nonprofit's Auctions Into Joyful, Money-Making Machines

What happens when a PTA president-turned-techie disrupts the nonprofit auction world? You get Roger Devine, co-founder of SchoolAuction.net, a man on a mission to make fundraising events both profitable and meaningful. In this fast-moving conversation with host Julia Patrick, Roger doesn’t just talk events—he redefines them.

From live auctions and paddle raises to the fine art of keeping silent auctions out of the ballroom, Roger offers a field-tested guide to modern event strategy. “I want to treat a fundraiser as if it is a fundraiser—I expect to make money,” Roger declares. And he means it.

But this isn’t just about money—it’s about momentum. Events aren’t just financial tools; they’re culture-building machines. Roger explains how strategic gatherings can cultivate younger donors, lift staff morale, recognize unsung heroes (like teachers and mission staff), and pull entire communities back into connection after years of distraction.

He makes a compelling case for fixed-price purchases (think raffles, gift cards, and sign-up parties), lowering barriers to entry, and offering dignity and opportunity to every guest—whether they’re dropping $25 or $25,000.

Oh, and about those paddle raises? Roger’s advice is clear: don’t wing it with your local news anchor. A trained benefit auctioneer is essential—not just for showmanship, but because they can drive up to 50% of your total event revenue. Skip this at your peril.

Watch and you'll also learn:

·        How hybrid and virtual fundraising have evolved (spoiler: most aren't fun anymore)

·        How to smartly integrate consignment travel packages (hint: only if Bob Bigshot’s coming)

·        Why accessibility matters—and how a volunteer ticket swap can make all the difference

Whether you're planning your first gala or overhauling your tenth, this episode will shake up your thinking. Because fundraising events shouldn't be a chaotic night of stress—they should be joyful, purposeful, and yes, wildly effective!

Join the ongoing conversation at #TheNonprofitShow

 00:00:00 Welcome and guest introduction
 00:01:26 How a PTA president became a tech founder
 00:03:12 Pandemic event trends and hybrid strategies
 00:04:43 Events must be profitable—not break-even
 00:05:49 Events as morale boosters and donor reminders
 00:06:33 Cultivating younger donors through events
 00:07:48 Small orgs teaching big ones how it’s done
 00:09:00 Recognizing mission-driven staff at events
 00:13:01 Accessibility tips: pricing, swaps, fixed-price options
 00:15:55 Paddle raise strategy and auctioneer ROI
 00:19:10 Why virtual paddle raises have fizzled
 00:21:07 Make live elements event-exclusive for maximum impact
 00:22:24 What are sign-up parties and why they work
 00:26:12 The pros and cons of consignment auction items 

#EventFundraising #FundraisingAuctions

Find us Live daily on YouTube!

Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!

Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_Show

Our national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits!
12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PT

Send us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.com
Visit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show