Behind the Bid DMV

The Whole Package: Behind the Bid

MARYLAND  |  VIRGINIA  | WASHINGTON D.C.

  🗓️  June 2, 2026 - MD
  🗓️  June 3, 2026 - VA
  🗓️  June 4, 2026 - D.C.
A half-day, CFRE-accredited masterclass focused on the strategy, structure, and moments that define high-performing fundraising events.

From stage strategy to revenue-driving moments… from unforgettable experiences to the technology that powers it all - this half-day program is designed to elevate how your events perform.

Join an all-star lineup of fundraising experts alongside nonprofit peers in your community for a morning packed with insight, energy, and connection.

Three convenient DMV locations. Limited seating available. This event series will sell out.

Register by May 12 to secure the $69 first access rate. ($129 after May 13th)

Course Curriculum:
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM EST: BREAKFAST

Kick things off with breakfast and conversation. Connect with fellow fundraisers, share ideas, and get ready for a high-impact morning.

9:30 AM - 10:10 AM EST: CURATE TO COMPETE

Title:
Curate to Compete: Strategic Procurement & Live Auction Insights That Drive Revenue

Speakers:
Sherry Truhlar, Charity Benefit Auctioneer, Red Apple Auctions
Kevin Spykerman, Director of Fundraising, Auction Packages

Course Description: 
Learn how to source the right items, structure packages strategically, and create live auction moments that drive competitive bidding and real revenue.

Key Takeaways:

  • Identify auction items and experiences that inspire competitive bidding and broad donor participation

  • Build a strategic procurement plan that balances accessibility, exclusivity, and revenue potential

  • Evaluate which packages perform best in silent auctions versus the live auction

  • Structure a live auction lineup that creates momentum and maximizes revenue opportunities

  • Apply live auction execution strategies to increase bidding energy and results

10:20 AM - 11:00 AM: THE POWER OF THE PADDLE

Title:
The Power of the Paddle:  Design Fund-A-Need Moments That Inspire Giving

Speaker:
Sherry Truhlar, Charity Benefit Auctioneer, Red Apple Auctions

Course Description:
Discover how to craft meaningful, mission-driven appeals that engage every guest and turn a single moment into one of your most powerful revenue drivers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Design a compelling paddle raise structure that encourages participation at every giving level

  • Use storytelling and mission connection to motivate donors and increase giving

  • Establish strategic giving tiers that maximize revenue potential

  • Collaborate effectively with benefit auctioneers and event leaders to create momentum in the room

  • Apply practical techniques to increase participation and overall paddle raise revenue

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM: PANEL DISCUSSION

Title:
Activate the Room: Turning Boards, Volunteers, and Sponsors Into Fundraising Champions

Moderator:
Kevin Spykerman, Director of Fundraising, Auction Packages

Panelists:
Cory Williams, Event Consultant, Life Event Staffing

Kirstyn McBride, Fundraising Specialist, Auction Packages

Kim Bauman, Area Marketing Manager, Greater Giving

Jessica Kasenetz, Director of Advancement & Enrollment Management, The Primary Day School (MD)

Lisa Winick, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Engagement, Wakefield School (VA)

Kimberly Grassia, Senior Director of Special Events, Georgetown University Medical Center (DC)

Course Description:
Hear what’s working right now from industry experts and nonprofit leaders,  and how to apply it to your own events.

Key Takeaways:

  • Activate board members and volunteers as effective ambassadors and fundraising advocates

  • Equip honorees and key supporters to help drive attendance, participation, and giving

  • Design sponsor activations that create deeper engagement and long-term partnership

  • Identify practical strategies for mobilizing networks to increase event reach and revenue

  • Apply peer-tested approaches to strengthen fundraising outcomes and grow mission impact

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM EST: ROUNDTABLE BONUS SESSION - EXHIBITS OPEN

Title:
Choosing the Right Event Fundraising Software

Led by:
Cory Williams, Event Consultant, Life Event Staffing

Description:
A practical, open discussion on the pros and considerations of today’s event technology, so you can make smarter decisions for your team.

12:30 PM - 12:45 PM EST: RAFFLE DRAWING

We’ll close out together with refreshments, time to connect, exhibits to explore, a raffle drawing, and a small thank-you to take with you.

Sponsors and Exhibitors:


Auction Packages

Red Apple Auctions

Life Event Staffing

Greater Giving

Meet the Speakers
Kevin Spykerman
Sherry Truhlar
Cory Williams
Kim Bauman
    Kevin Spykerman
  Sherry Truhlar
     Cory Williams
Kim Bauman
Kirstyn McBride
Jessica Kasenetz
Lisa Winick
Kimberly Grassia
    Kirstyn McBride
   Jessica Kasenetz
   Lisa Winick
   Kimberly Grassia
btb

Proud to host Behind the Bid at Founding Farmers, a renowned farm-to-table experience.

Maryland:

12505 Park Potomac Avenue, Potomac, MD 20854

Virginia:

1904 Reston Metro Plaza, Reston, VA 20190

Washington D.C.

3000 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20007

 

Questions?
Feel free to reach out to Sarah O’Brien at sarah@auctionpackages.com.

The Whole Package - Behind the Bid DMV

First Access Rate - $69 before May 13th

What's included:

  • Half-day, high-impact learning experience
  • 4 CFRE credits
  • Hosted breakfast and refreshments
  • Live Q&A with industry experts and nonprofit peers
  • Four curated sessions, including a panel discussion and roundtable
  • Built-in time for meaningful connection and networking
  • Exhibits, raffle drawing, and a parting gift

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Auction Packages
Red Apple Auctions

FEATURED SPONSOR

GGlogo
Life Event Staffing