All local charities invited to raise money at Evening of Giving

Over the past five years, Silver Sands Factory Stores Evening of Giving has served as a major fundraiser for charities across the region from Pensacola to Panama City. This year, however, will be incredibly important as charities and non-profits are experiencing declining donations and revenue. Silver Sands invites all non-profit organizations to participate in the sixth annual Evening of Giving from 3 to 8 p.m. Nov. 21.

“Evening of Giving gives us the opportunity to help all of the wonderful organizations and charities that ask for our assistance each year,” said Traci Stokes, marketing director of Silver Sands. “The beauty of this event is that there is no limit to how many organizations can participate or how much money they can raise.”

Evening of Giving is a shopping and entertainment event benefitting local charities and their causes. Ticket holders can get a jump start on their holiday shopping minus the crowds with exclusive discounts listed on the back of the ticket from more than 70 Silver Sands stores, most offering 15-30 percent off already reduced outlet prices. Guests also enjoy a festive tree lighting, live entertainment, refreshments and numerous in-store fundraising events. Tickets will be available for purchase for $5 at Shopper Services, with all ticket proceeds benefiting the charities.

There are several ways that non-profit organizations can become engaged and raise money towards their missions at Evening of Giving. Silver Sands will provide tickets to all participating charities to sell for $5, with all shopping discounts and events listed on the back.

Charities can sell an unlimited number of tickets and keep 100 percent of the ticket sales. Shopper Services will also sell tickets on behalf of each participating charity. In addition, each Silver Sands store or restaurant that partners with a charity can sell tickets on behalf of their partnering organization. 

Each participating charity will be encouraged to partner with a Silver Sands store or restaurant to raise additional funds and increase awareness for their organization. Previous in-store fundraising events have included purchasing tickets for a chance at prizes or additional store discounts, food/wine receptions, bake sales and more.

“San Gelato and Zales have been wonderful partners for this event,” said Kim Henderson, area manager for Ronald McDonald House. “Last year, we had people lined up around the corner the entire night waiting to give money to see what they could win. Many of the donations came from families that had stayed at a Ronald McDonald House in the past, and they were thrilled to be able to give back at such a fun and exciting event.

“Evening of Giving is a fun event to do as a non profit, and possibly my favorite. Not only does the charity make money for their cause, it also gives them face time with the community and the volunteers have a great time doing it.”

Event hours have been extended to 3 to 8 p.m. to offer charities more flexibility and additional exposure. Throughout the evening, participating charities are also provided with a table outside their partner stores to sell tickets, distribute information and/or host any other fundraising activities.

Any charities or non-profit organizations interested in participating in Silver Sands Evening of Giving should contact Ashley Watkins at 850-654-9771, ext. 205 or e-mail aw@silversandsoutlet.com. Interested organizations are encouraged to notify Silver Sands as soon as possible to begin planning for this year’s event.