Case Study: Heartland Humane Society
Posted by Roger Devine
In 1966, Heartland Humane Society was founded by a group of concerned Benton County citizens with a mission to build a more compassionate community by teaching humane messages to our youth, caring for homeless animals, and strengthening the human-animal bond. The organization provides an open door animal shelter where they care for 2,500 - 3,200 animals each year. Programs include a spay/neuter program, an affordable adoption program, a foster care program, a humane education program, a pet food bank, behavior counseling referrals, and services for low-income pet owners.
Wine & Whiskers is Heartland’s signature event. It began four years ago when a local gallery offered to auction a piece of artwork on behalf of Heartland. The Executive Director asked if Heartland could bring a few more silent auction items, hors d’oeuvres, and wine. Wine & Whiskers was born! This year, Wine & Whiskers featured a live auction, silent auction, dinner, dessert, wine, and a live band with dancing. More than 200 guests attended and revenue more than doubled from the 2007 event. Knowing the event would be much larger, the planning and committee and staff worked hard to ensure the organizational infrastructure behind the event would be solid.
What were you using to manage your auction before Tofino?
Previous events used no auction software. Tickets were sold and when the guests arrived, they filled out a form for their bid number. Everything was handwritten.
Why do you prefer Tofino to other options?
I prefer Tofino because it manages all aspects of the event — ticket sales, seating, donors, winning bids, payments, and sponsors. Once the data is entered, reports and mailing lists can be generated. However, the special thing about Tofino is the staff. Initially, I thought it was just a faceless software program. I was very wrong! The folks at Tofino bent over backwards with their customer service! They even attended the event to ensure the software and process ran smoothly.
How did using Tofino change the way you manage your auction?
We are now able to grow the event without causing grief and lines for the guests. The software also allows us to have electronic information we can use year after year.
Any tips or tricks for other customers?
If you have any questions or concerns, call or email your Tofino representative - they will help you promptly! (It took me 3 weeks to realize this!)
Andrea Thornberry is the Executive Director of the Heartland Humane Society.
