The odds in finding honorees for a benefit are a lot like the odds of finding success in vitro fertilization.

What is important

I look for someone who likes what I do, who wants to be part of it, wants to share it with their friends and colleagues and most of all, someone who I can enjoy a meal with.

But that’s just me.

The more useful objective is: Let me help you do what you do better.

I look for people doing great things for the arts, for Queens, for building creative communities and asked this question.? So far, I will be working on several new projects with my prospective honorees who are becoming more and more involved with Queens Council on the Arts on many levels. Some may become honorees, even board members. Some will this year, some next year.

The more useful approach is: Seek a synergistic relationship first, honoree second.

This is a person who I am asking to lend their presence, fundraising influence which is really how many people’s arms can they twist into buying a ticket or sponsor the event, and stand up in front of hundreds of artists, suits, politicos, media and deliver a thank you speech.

What’s in it for them? Is it recognition in a cultural community? Will it create goodwill by association? Can they leverage this occasion to enhance their own endeavors?

The more effective strategy is: Make them want to do this.

In 1999, Queens Council on the Arts received the NYS Governors Arts Award. Of all the awards, proclamations, plaques and other forms of recognition we have received over the years, this one has impressed me the most.

Why?

It is a small sculptural piece that was commissioned by the artist, Roy Lichtenstein. It captures the message of the award and confers upon us the delightfully unexpected status of – collector.

The most creative gesture is: Give them more than an award

For my upcoming benefit in May, I may find myself with two honorees or five. This is the crap shoot, you-never-know, wouldn’t-it-be-great-if, outcome of finding an honoree or honorees for a benefit.

I am sure there will always be enough love for babies for families who want them. In my case, there will always be a place for people who want to be part of our organization.

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Hoong Yee