Designing Your Event With Intention

A Case Study on HSDC's Accessible Fundraiser

At GFS Events, we believe the most impactful events are the ones that reflect the mission of the organization at every turn. That’s why we were so inspired to partner with the Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center (HSDC) for their Cheers & Connections Annual Fundraiser—a uniquely immersive and accessible celebration of their work.

This wasn’t your typical gala. No ballroom. No plated dinner. No silent auction.

Instead, the team at HSDC envisioned something different: a community-centric event that prioritized inclusivity, accessibility, and meaningful connection over formality. They wanted an experience that would invite guests into their space—literally and figuratively—and leave them with a clearer, deeper understanding of their mission. 

Together, we designed an event that did exactly that.

A Nontraditional Space with Intentional Design

The event took place right inside HSDC’s clinic—a space that typically wouldn’t be considered for a fundraiser. But with intentional design, this nontraditional venue became the perfect setting.

Guests were greeted with a champagne reception and stationed appetizers, giving them time to mingle and settle in. A mix of seating styles encouraged movement and conversation, helping guests feel comfortable and included from the start.

Accessibility Wasn't an Add-On—It Was the Foundation

For HSDC, accessibility wasn’t an event feature—it was a core value.

American Sign Language (ASL) and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) services were provided throughout the program, and volunteers with ASL experience were placed at registration to welcome and assist all guests from the moment they walked through the door—ensuring the first impression was one of ease and inclusion.

One of the most thoughtful decisions? There was no background music playing during the event. For many deaf and hard-of-hearing attendees, background noise can create confusion and distraction. By removing it altogether, HSDC created an environment that prioritized clear communication and genuine connection.

Every detail—from sound design to signage—was a reflection of the organization’s deep understanding of its audience. Accessibility wasn’t just accommodated; it was anticipated.

Interactive Mission Stations and the Passport Experience

Instead of a formal sit-down program, guests received a lanyard and mission “passport” that guided them through five interactive stations—each showcasing a key area of HSDC’s work like audiology, advocacy, and preschool education.

Small-group tours, led by HSDC’s co-Executive Directors, allowed guests to see the mission in action, connect with staff, and ask questions. Completing all five stations entered guests into a prize drawing—adding a touch of fun and engagement.

The result? Attendees left with a deeper, more personal connection to the organization.

A Mission-Forward Program That Inspired Giving

Rather than relying on glitz or games, the Raise the Paddle program centered storytelling. Speakers shared heartfelt, personal narratives about how HSDC’s services had impacted their lives. Because guests had already engaged with the organization during the passport activity, the emotional resonance of the program felt even stronger.

And the results showed. The fundraiser met and exceeded its goals—not by leaning into exclusivity, but by leaning into mission.

Why This Model Worked

Cheers & Connections worked because every decision was made with intention. The event wasn’t trying to be a carbon copy of what others were doing—it was a reflection of HSDC’s values, community, and goals.

In doing so, it proved a few key points:

• Fundraisers don’t have to follow tradition to be successful.

• Your space can work for you, not against you—with thoughtful planning.

• Immersive mission experiences leave lasting impressions and inspire deeper giving.

• Prioritizing accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a better way to build connection.

  
  

HSDC’s Cheers & Connections is proof that your event doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s to succeed. When your fundraiser reflects your mission—when it feels like an extension of your values—it resonates on a whole new level.

If you’re ready to rethink your fundraiser and design something truly intentional, let’s talk. GFS Events specializes in crafting events that align with your mission, excite your audience, and achieve your goals.

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