[Lnc-business] Financial implications of canceling in-person convention

[Susan Hogarth]

I know there are concerns about financial repercussions of failing to hold an in-person convention. And I know state party experience doesn’t necessarily translate to the national level, but I did want to share North Carolina’s experience, because I do think we could see a similar situation.   
  
  
  
 LPNC is a mid-sized state affiliate. Our conventions are held yearly over a full weekend and typically draw 70-100 delegates. They typically break even money-wise, pulling in money through a fundraiser if we manage it right.   
  
  
  
  At the time we pulled the plug on our in-person meeting, we had   sold a total of 89 packages, mostly full registrations, and some tables. (We wound up with an online convention of over 90 delegates). As soon as the decision was made we began receiving “Just keep my registration fee” notes (I’ve seen these posted in public forums at the national level too, since last week, and even before). We did have some expenses, but most were recoverable.   
  
  
    
  We contacted each delegate to ask if they wanted a refund or to make a donation (I’ve seen at least one person suggest not offering a refund and waiting for members to request it - I think that’s a horrible idea. There’s over 20% unemployment - you’re really going to make people *ask* for their money back?!). For donors we offered as a thank you a new Tshirt design.   
  
  
  
We made 34 refunds, which included some business table refunds. One person requested their money go to their county affiliate. One person we didn’t connect with quickly enough so our treasurer sent the refund, and they turned around and donated it back.   
  
    
So, in a sad kind of way, we had a financially ‘successful’ convention. It certainly wasn’t a   disaster. I know the economics of the national convention are much different, but I do believe we can count on at least 1/3 of our registrations converting to donations in the event of full cancellation without rescheduling an in-person event. I do think each registrant should be contacted personally if this becomes the case so that we can give them options. I am willing to help make these calls (Tara has been teaching me a thing or two 🥰 and has been very encouraging, which will be the subject of another post).   
  
  
  
  
  Susan Jane Hogarth
  
  Region 5 Alternate
  
  919-906-2106 (tel:919-906-2106)