Like the rest of the event industry, planners for nonprofits, charities, and organizations had to rethink their most important tentpole events of 2020 due to the in-person gathering restrictions put in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some events were postponed, while others were outright canceled, with hopes that 2021 will be a better year. And then there were many who transformed their traditional black-tie galas into virtual events hosted over Zoom.
Instead of relying on sit-down meals and fancy ball gowns, planners and organizers were forced to get creative with their fundraisers, which right now are even more important because those in need are facing much tougher times.
From an immersive 3D environment for an animal charity to a pasta demonstration dedicated to Dr. Anthony Fauci, here are some of the clever ways that these galas, benefits, and fundraisers from the fall season rethought their programming and raised money for worthy causes.