Behind the Scenes of Our Project Venture Fundraiser
At Thunderbird Supply, our annual fundraiser is always something we look forward to, but this year’s support for Project Venture became something truly special. While many people saw the raffles, social media posts, and fundraising events happening publicly, there was also a tremendous amount of planning and teamwork happening behind the scenes long before the fundraiser officially launched.
Earlier this year, several managers within our company gathered to discuss local charities we could support through our annual fundraiser. Different organizations were presented, but Project Venture quickly stood out because of the incredible work they do for youth within our communities.
Rona Yazzie introduced the organization through a presentation that highlighted Project Venture’s programs, outreach efforts, and community impact. After learning more about their mission, the decision was made to move forward and partner with them for this year’s fundraiser.
Once the organization was selected, planning officially began. Around December, Rona connected with Project Venture Director Sheri to begin discussions about how we could collaborate together. Shortly after, meetings were held with Sheri and Matthew from Project Venture to talk about the fundraiser, our goals, and ways we could help support the organization.
One important part of every fundraiser for us is making sure our customers understand who we’re supporting and why. To help spread awareness, our team created informational poster boards, flyers, and store displays across our locations. Our marketing and social media teams also worked together to develop promotional graphics, videos, and online content designed to educate our audience and encourage community involvement.
But beyond the promotions, we also wanted our staff to personally connect with the organization itself.
In March, Matthew and Noelle from Project Venture visited our Gallup store to speak with our employees about the youth programs they provide and the positive impact they continue to make throughout the community. Then in April, they returned alongside Tasha for a second visit, where our Gallup team participated in outdoor team-building activities together. It was a meaningful experience that helped strengthen the connection between our staff and the mission behind the fundraiser.
To support Project Venture, both our Gallup and Albuquerque locations hosted raffles throughout the fundraiser.
The first raffle, held in March, gave customers the opportunity to win a Spring Yard Cleaning Set. Between both store locations, that raffle alone raised an incredible $1,565.
In April, a second raffle gave participants the chance to win over $1,000 worth of gift cards to popular food chains. Together, both locations raised an additional $2,180 for Project Venture.
Our Mail Order Department also joined the fundraiser by hosting their own raffle featuring a $200 Thunderbird Supply store credit prize. Their efforts raised another $1,374.97.
In addition to the raffles, customers across all locations were given the option to round up their purchases at checkout, which raised $391.35. Donation jars placed near cashier stands brought in another $342.48, while an internal employee 50/50 raffle contributed an additional $228 toward the fundraiser total.
When everything was combined, our Gallup, Albuquerque, and Mail Order teams worked together to raise over $4,425 for Project Venture.
Looking back, it’s incredible to see how much preparation, teamwork, and community support made this fundraiser possible. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, participated in raffles, supported our promotions, and helped us make a positive impact.
From all of us at Thunderbird Supply, thank you for helping us support Project Venture and the important work they continue to do for youth in our communities. Watch the full video on our YouTube.
