On-Call Expertise for When the Unexpected Happens
Gala 911 is your trusted support service when your nonprofit fundraising event needs fast, expert help. Whether you’re navigating staffing changes, managing vendor issues, refining your script, or just feeling behind, we offer smart, flexible solutions to keep your event on track.
Designed specifically for nonprofits, Gala 911 offers everything from strategic guidance to hands-on event execution—so your team can stay focused on your mission and your donors.
Working with Swaim Strategies was a game-changer. They helped us refocus our gala with clarity and creativity, piecing together all the moving parts so we could deliver an event that truly made us shine.
Swaim Strategies are the go to people for nonprofit events. We love working with them!
Once again, this year our investment in Swaim Strategies was one of the smartest things we could have done.
Swaim Strategies helped us quickly pivot and take our event virtual! Continuing to fundraise during this time was critical for us as a small nonprofit. Without our event, we wouldn't have been able to engage our sponsors and major donors in supporting our work. The virtual event model also enabled us to broaden our audience and engage with attendees from all over the state who wouldn't have been able to attend our in-person event. It went so well, that we are considering a hybrid going forward.
Gala 911 meets you where you are in your planning process. From quick-turn consulting to full-service program support, we’re here to solve problems and elevate your fundraising potential.
Hourly Consulting
Get expert input fast, whether you're finalizing a fundraising event planning template, vetting vendors, or navigating last-minute decisions.
Project Management
Keep your timeline, team, and logistics aligned—especially helpful during transitions or when internal capacity is low.
Fundraising + Paddle Raise Strategy
Bring clarity and impact to your event goals. We help define your fundraising strategy and shape your paddle raise for maximum results.
Script + Speech Writing
Ensure your message connects with donors and stays mission-aligned. We help craft remarks that inspire and convert.
Video Production Support
Whether you're building a story-driven moment or a sizzle reel, we guide content that enhances donor engagement.
Gala Completion Services
Overwhelmed or behind? We jump in midstream to bring your event to the finish line with structure and calm.
Guest Experience Troubleshooting
Resolve issues with check-in, seating, run-of-show, or flow to protect the donor experience.
Vendor Coordination
We source, secure, and manage the right vendors for events—so you don’t have to.
Event Troubleshooting
From budget surprises to room oversells, we help you navigate bumps like a pro.
Gala 911 delivers expert support when your nonprofit needs it most. Whether you’re mid-planning or just getting started, our team is ready to help troubleshoot, problem-solve, and move your mission forward.
Reach out today to learn how Gala 911 can support your next fundraising event. We’ll assess your needs and step in where it matters most.
Gala 911 - Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when our fundraising event coordinator leaves unexpectedly before our gala?
Our Gala 911 Project Management service provides immediate expert intervention when your organization faces unexpected staffing changes. We step in as your interim event project manager, assess your current planning status, and execute a strategic path forward to ensure your fundraising event reaches its full potential despite the disruption.
How quickly can an emergency event manager take over our partially planned fundraiser?
We deploy immediately upon engagement, conducting a comprehensive assessment of your existing contracts, vendor relationships, and logistics within days. Our proven systems allow us to rapidly integrate with your team and accelerate your event planning, regardless of how much time remains before your gala date.
What's included in emergency gala project management services?
Our comprehensive flat-rate package includes immediate strategic planning, complete project management and vendor coordination, program development with run-of-show scripting, strategic fundraising appeal design, and full day-of-event leadership. We customize specific deliverables based on your unique planning status and timeline constraints.
How do you maximize fundraising results during a compressed planning timeline?
We design a comprehensive giving strategy with specific steps for before, during, and after your event. During the gala, we work with professional benefit auctioneers to recognize pledges in real time, manage matching gifts dynamically, and execute live thermometer updates. This strategic approach consistently delivers the biggest increase in organizational fundraising year over year.
Who handles donor relationships when you manage our fundraising event?
While we manage all operational and strategic elements, your team remains focused on what matters most: human connections. Your staff continues to handle sponsor solicitation, guest outreach, volunteer recruitment, and donor stewardship, while we ensure every logistical, programmatic, and strategic component supports those vital relationships.
Can you save a fundraising gala that's only partially planned?
Yes. Rather than starting from scratch, we expertly assess and integrate everything that’s already been planned and contracted. Our experience allows us to identify critical gaps, determine what’s achievable within your compressed timeline, and create a realistic action plan that maximizes your event’s fundraising potential.
What makes emergency event management different from regular event planning?
Emergency event management requires immediate deployment, rapid assessment capabilities, and the ability to work within existing constraints rather than ideal timelines. Our Gala 911 service brings proven systems, strategic expertise, and the confidence that comes from successfully navigating similar time-sensitive challenges for other organizations.