In the competitive world of nonprofit fundraising, creativity and trust are everything. Rick Kennerknecht, Managing Director of Charity Safaris, has built a system that turns adventure travel into a reliable fundraising tool for charities, schools, and community organizations. His model—donating high-value hunting trips where nonprofits keep 100% of the auction proceeds—offers a wealth of insight into how nonprofits can engage donors, attract bidders, and form lasting partnerships.
Below are actionable lessons nonprofits can take from Charity Safaris’ success.
1. Promote Auction Items Like Experiences, Not Transactions
A key takeaway from Charity Safaris’ approach is how the company sells the story of each trip.
Instead of listing items as “Argentina Hunting Trip for Two,” their marketing emphasizes emotion and exclusivity — the experience of adventure, luxury lodges, and world-class guides.
Lesson:
When promoting auction items, focus on the emotional value — connection, adventure, joy, giving back — not just the price tag. Tell a story around the item that sparks excitement and helps donors imagine themselves there.
2. Create Anticipation and Excitement Before the Event
Charity Safaris encourages nonprofits to advertise auction items early through social media, newsletters, and event teasers. Building excitement before the auction increases perceived value and competition during bidding.
Lesson:
Use pre-event marketing:
-
Share sneak peeks and photos of top items
-
Post countdowns or video previews
-
Highlight donor impact stories (“your bid helps us fund 10 scholarships”)
Excitement equals engagement — and higher bids.
3. Leverage Partnerships Strategically
Rick Kennerknecht’s team works directly with outfitters around the world — in Argentina, New Zealand, and South Africa — forming partnerships that benefit all sides. Outfitters gain exposure, nonprofits raise funds, and donors enjoy unique travel experiences.
Lesson:
Partnerships are powerful fundraising tools. Build win-win relationships with vendors, sponsors, and service providers who see value in supporting your cause. Offer them visibility, brand association, or community goodwill in return.
4. Maintain Transparency and Trust
Charity Safaris stands out for its “100% donations” model — nonprofits keep every dollar raised when reserve prices are met. This transparency eliminates confusion and builds trust with both donors and charities.
Lesson:
Be upfront about where every dollar goes. Publish clear financials, explain how auction proceeds are used, and highlight cost-free elements of your program. Transparency converts one-time bidders into long-term supporters.
5. Negotiate with Value in Mind
Charity Safaris doesn’t simply request free trips from outfitters — it builds ongoing relationships based on mutual value. The outfitters gain marketing exposure and potential new clients from the auction trips.
Lesson:
When negotiating donations or in-kind support, show partners what’s in it for them — brand visibility, access to new audiences, or shared impact stories. Approach every negotiation as a collaboration, not a favor.
6. Offer High-Quality, High-Interest Items
Rick Kennerknecht understands that unique, aspirational experiences outperform generic items in fundraising events. His trips are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities — the kind of prizes that draw attention and competition.
Lesson:
Curate your auction catalog carefully. Quality beats quantity. Choose items that are experiential, rare, or emotionally resonant with your audience.
7. Provide Turnkey Support to Partner Organizations
Charity Safaris provides clear instructions, marketing materials, and support to nonprofits that use its donated trips. This makes it easy for event organizers to promote and auction the items effectively.
Lesson:
Simplify the process for volunteers and staff. Provide templates, scripts, and visuals that help them confidently present your auction items or campaigns. Ease of use increases participation and consistency.
8. Measure Results and Share Success Stories
Charity Safaris highlights case studies of organizations that have raised funds successfully through its program — reinforcing credibility and motivating others to join.
Lesson:
Document and share your wins. Post photos, testimonials, and impact updates after each fundraising event. This social proof encourages new donors and sponsors to get involved.
9. Focus on the Long Game
Rick Kennerknecht’s model isn’t just about one-time donations — it builds lasting relationships with both nonprofits and outfitters. The goal is sustained partnerships that grow year after year.
Lesson:
Think beyond single events. Stay in touch with donors and partners, thank them personally, and involve them in future projects. Longevity builds stability in fundraising.
10. Lead with Purpose and Passion
At the heart of Charity Safaris’ work is a clear mission: helping charities raise money at no cost to them. Rick’s leadership reflects a blend of business sense and genuine commitment to giving back.
Lesson:
Let your purpose guide your strategy. When authenticity and impact drive decisions, it resonates — and donors respond.
Conclusion
Rick Kennerknecht’s Charity Safaris model shows that great fundraising isn’t about asking harder — it’s about working smarter. Through storytelling, transparency, and strong partnerships, nonprofits can turn any event into an opportunity to inspire generosity and amplify impact.