SDA Seeks Sponsors for Sumner Events

Planning an event is more than just planning.  There are details to be worked out, hours of volunteers involved, budgets and of course financial support needed.  With the economic downturn, there has been a reduction in contributions to many organizations with such requests.  However, the first rule in fund-raising is never be afraid to ask.  There are often many businesses just waiting for an opportunity to be a part of something big, something that supports a community and an event that is just down right fun.  So here's your chance.

This summer, Sumner will be offering the Rhubarb Pie Festival which encompasses a great number of events and activities between June 28th and August 18th.  Two events in particular are in need of sponsors and this is where your sponsorship opportunity come in to play.

 Rhubarb Days was established two years ago and welcomed just over 5,000 visitors to Sumner in 2012.  This event is seeking a main sponsorship of $2500 which could be shared between more than one sponsor or owned by a single business. 

Our second event is really a new event for the Sumner Downtown Association.  In January of this year, SDA was asked to assume the role of organizer, planner and manager of the 40 year old Art Festival now called the Fine Arts Festival.  We agreed to take  this on long after our 2013 budget was established thereby leaving us no funds to work with specifically for this event.  While much of the event will be support monetarily through booth fees, there is a need for a Main Stage Sponsor in the amount of $3000.  Again, this can be broken up between businesses or one may take ownership of this contribution.  

SDA is a 501 (c)3, making any of these requested contributions tax deductible.  Like with many, you may be wondering what you will get for your sponsorship.  Besides a feeling of community spirit, your company logo will be on the banner that hangs over the Main Street of Sumner (or as in the case of the Fine Arts Festival Main Stage Sponsor over the Gazebo) for all our visitors to see.  You will be recognized as a committed business member and supporter of the Sumner Community.  You will be invited to have a booth at the event you choose to sponsor to promote your business.  Additionally, all advertising (Sunset Magazine, Northwest Travel Guide, AAA Journey Magazine, Showcase Magazine, Patch.com and other media outlets) or printed materials will include your logo as well.  Throughout the day, your business name will be mentioned on the sound system as a major supporter of this SDA event.

During Rhubarb Days, you will be an invited guest to our Bonney Lake Chamber After Hours event held at our office at Heritage Park. This evening you can enjoy hot dogs off the grill, chips, salad and a beverage as you listen to the sounds of The Great Pretenders presented by Music Off Main. 

During the Fine Arts Festival, your sponsorship will earn you the invitation to join our Artist Reception at our office during which snacks and beverages will be provided.  This will also present an opportunity to listen to Hot Club Sandwich, also presented by Music Off Main just steps away from our office.

Personally, I know it is a lot to ask of any business during this fluctuating economy.   However, I know the Sumner community is well worth the investment. Bonney Lake and Orting also benefit from these events as family outlets, places to go, things to do and hear.  Many of us know what we get back from a community has a lot to do with what we put into a community.  SDA thanks you in advance for consideration of this request.  For more information, please contact Laurie at sda@sumnerdowntown.com