Non-Profit & Partner Involvement
The defining question is:
How do we co-create with our partners a collective experience that literally “loves on” the city of Winston-Salem?
The outcome of experiences at CFTC is "increasing connections among the people of our city serving one another in solidarity." We are counting on non-profit and community partners to aim for interactive experiences to deepen our connection to our community and increase solidarity among all people. These moments could be tied to mission, build awareness, involve giveaways, or simply be elements of fun, joy, and wonder. This is a moment to bring our city together for a shared experience of connection and solidarity.
FAQs:
WHAT KIND OF ACTIVITY CAN WE DO?
In order to have a table at CFTC, you must bring an Activity that is INTERACTIVE (i.e. something the attendees can participate in). The activities brought by nonprofits, churches, and organizations are the “life of the party” at Christmas for the City (Think of it like Stone Soup - we’re the broth - you’re everything else!). Your Activity can be missional, fun, engaging, or a combination of the three. Engage your creativity (or your creative co-workers and friends)!
Nonprofits in the past have estimated that several hundred people engage with their table - this could be anything from a short conversation to participating in everything you have to offer.
WHAT IF WE’RE UNABLE TO PROVIDE SOMETHING INTERACTIVE?
More of an expo type organization? Rather than having a table, we’re inviting organizations who don’t have the capacity to bring an activity to bring a decorated tree for display at CFTC. It can be decorated reflecting your mission (or just beautifully) - and you can get your clients or co-workers involved! Beside the tree you can bring a table or easel/stand that’s up to 2' x 2' to hold organizational flyers and information.
*If your organization plans to do this, please let us know in the registration form.
WHERE IN THE BUILDING WOULD WE BE?
We have a couple different spaces nonprofits can be this year (Arts + Experience, North Pole Village, and the new Festival Hall) - depending on your organization’s mission and the “experience” you bring to the event, we will place you in the appropriate spot throughout the building. This will be communicated around Thanksgiving.
Do we have to commit to the entire event?
We ask all organizations and vendors to commit to being present and maintaining their booth with staff/volunteers for the entire event (1-6pm).
IS THERE A COST FOR THE SPACE OR TABLE AT CFTC?
Nope! To keep things equitable and open to any organization, there is no cost to participate.
However, we do welcome (and appreciate) donations from nonprofits that have the ability to help cover the cost of renting tables/building and making this FREE event happen. We ask you to consider donating $50 per table you utilize or consider sponsoring CFTC at one of out sponsorship levels - if you have questions about sponsorship please reach out to sponsor@christmasforthecity.com.
ARE WE ALLOWED TO BRING ORGANIZATIONAL INFORMATION/FLIERS?
Absolutely! We’d love for you to bring information to share with individuals while they are interacting with you. Christmas for the City is a great way to get connected with new individuals that may need your services, align with your mission, or be looking for ways to get involved with your organization! We do not allow sales or solicitation of donations during the event.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN TABLe / how many tables can my organization use?
For each registered organization, we will reserve one or two 6’ rectangle tables from the Benton for your use. If your activity requires a special set-up or additional tables, you will need to have a conversation with the Nonprofit Team to figure out what will work with the space constraints and your activity.
Can I bring pop-up tents / banners / confetti / etc?
Please refrain from bringing pop-up tents, helium balloons, glitter/confetti, or having open flames (due to Benton and Fire Marshall rules). Banners and signage for your organization are encouraged, but please plan to only use painters tape on the walls of the Benton. If you have other questions about what you can bring, please contact us below.
WHO CAN VOLUNTEER?
Anyone – Bring your family, friends, and neighbors!