The Secret to Turning Every Guest Into a Donor

Auction is Action with U in it! · Jul 3, 2026 · 7m

Most nonprofits end their paddle raise too early.In this episode of Auction is Action, Bobby D. Ehlert shares one of the simplest—and most overlooked—fundraising strategies you can implement at your next event: the Paddle Drop.The Paddle Drop happens immediately after your paddle raise and gives every remaining guest one final opportunity to participate. It's an effortless way to transform attendees into first-time donors, tap into their philanthropic budget, deepen donor relationships, and raise thousands of additional dollars without adding another auction item or extending your…