When planning a fundraiser, gala, or charity auction, one of the most appealing items to secure is a resort stay. A resort donation request is a formal appeal made by nonprofits, schools, or community organizations to resorts, hotels, or hospitality groups asking for complimentary stays, packages, or services that can be used to raise funds. These donated experiences are extremely popular with donors, as they combine the excitement of travel with the satisfaction of supporting a good cause.
Why Resorts Donate to Nonprofits
Resorts and hospitality brands often receive many donation requests, but they also recognize the value in supporting community initiatives. By approving a resort donation request, they gain:
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Brand Visibility – Their resort is featured in front of potential customers at fundraising events.
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Positive Public Relations – Supporting charities enhances their reputation as socially responsible businesses.
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New Guest Opportunities – Donated packages often attract guests who may return in the future as paying customers.
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Tax Benefits – Depending on local regulations, donated stays or packages may qualify as charitable contributions.
This win-win relationship encourages many resorts to continue partnering with nonprofits year after year.
How to Write an Effective Resort Donation Request
To improve your chances of success, your resort donation request should be professional, concise, and personalized. Here are some best practices:
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Research the Resort – Understand their brand values and target audience to align your request with their goals.
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Introduce Your Organization – Briefly explain your mission, past successes, and the purpose of your fundraiser.
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Be Specific – Clearly state what you are requesting (e.g., a two-night stay, spa package, or golf getaway).
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Explain the Benefit – Show how their donation will be recognized and how it supports a meaningful cause.
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Provide Event Details – Include the date, location, audience size, and expected visibility for the resort.
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Offer Recognition – Mention how you will thank them publicly (event signage, social media, website features).
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Be Courteous – Always thank them for considering your request, whether or not they approve it.
Popular Resort Donation Ideas for Fundraisers
Resorts can donate a variety of packages to enhance your fundraising event. Some of the most attractive options include:
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Weekend getaways at beach or mountain resorts
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Spa and wellness retreat packages
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All-inclusive vacation stays
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Golf and resort experiences
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Adventure and activity-based stays (skiing, hiking, diving, etc.)
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Romantic couple’s retreats
These experiences typically generate enthusiastic bidding at auctions, making them valuable for raising significant funds.
Tips for Maximizing Resort Donations at Your Event
Once your resort donation request is approved, the next step is making the most of it during your fundraiser:
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Promote Early – Highlight the resort stay in pre-event marketing to build excitement.
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Bundle with Extras – Pair the donated stay with airline miles, restaurant vouchers, or local tours.
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Highlight Exclusivity – Emphasize the luxury and limited availability of the package to drive competition.
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Use Visuals – Display photos of the resort and amenities to capture attention.
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Recognize the Donor – Acknowledge the resort during the event and in all materials.
Final Thoughts
A well-prepared resort donation request can lead to valuable partnerships between nonprofits and hospitality providers. Resorts benefit from exposure and goodwill, while organizations gain high-value auction items that excite donors and generate significant contributions. By crafting thoughtful requests, showcasing the mutual benefits, and honoring the partnership, nonprofits can successfully secure resort donations year after year.