Although the aftermath of a snowstorm kept some of the invited non-profit groups away, 16 were represented at the February 13 luncheon at the Russell House.

Russell House owner Scott Larson outlined the fund-raising opportunities offered at any of the three properties (Larson and wife, Corinne also own the Lawnmere Inn and Newagen Seaside Inn).

One event must be scheduled at the Russell House, the primary venue being offered to non-profit organizations in the midcoast, before an event can be scheduled at one of the Inns.

Larson recommended that groups plan on scheduling a fund-raiser far enough in advance to achieve adequate promotion time.

Group representatives should kick into high gear by promoting the event to their mailing lists, supporters, friends, etc. - higher attendance means a higher percentage of the day's revenue will go to your group.

Other suggestions for promotion include creating and distributing flyers, create informational brochures on your organization for display at the event, announce the event on the Russell House marquee.

The day of the event, be creative with decoration for the tables; i.e., if your organization has "colors" use those on the tables in the form of a centerpiece. Use items associated with your organization as centerpieces such as a cornucopia filled with small canned goods for the food pantry; a "vase" with hammers and rulers for Rebuilding Together; edible flowers in a basket for the Botanical Gardens…

Groups may schedule fund-raisers monthly, quarterly, twice or once a year. The Russell House is available on a Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday.

The Inns are available from June through October (subject to availability), but event planners were informed that these locations serve dinner only.

The materials distributed by Larson at the luncheon, where samples from the Russell House menu were served, included a breakdown of revenue and contribution percentages.

Revenue from the day up to $1,000 resulted in a 10 percent contribution; $1,000 to $1,500 earned a 15 percent contribution; and $3,000 and up rendered a 35 percent contribution.

Larson said that while they welcome an organization's creative input relative to décor and information; the sale of hats, t-shirts, etc. would be prohibited.

Organization representatives should contact Diane Little at the Russell House to schedule an event: 633-2722 or dlittle@lawn mereinn.com

Non-profit groups attending were the Boothbay Region Student Aid Fund, Habitat for Humanity, Seasons of Change, the Boothbay Region YMCA, Lincoln Arts Festival, Boothbay Region Community Resources, Lion's Club, Boothbay Region Historical Society, Maine State Aquarium, Burnt Island Living Lighthouse, Ocean Classroom Foundation, St. Andrews Auxiliary, Boothbay Region Garden Club, Boothbay Railway Village and the Boothbay Region Domestic Abuse Prevention Council.

Larson indicated he would be considering holding another luncheon for the other non-profits that were not present due to the weather.