To clarify, the focus on my comment about a "contract" was to highlight the negative impact of early termination fees, among the other criteria. There are several payment processors that do not require a "contract" for a specified term, but rather manage the relationship on a month to month basis, with no early termination fee. As such, it is in fact a contract, however it does not lock you in for a set time frame. In these cases, Payprotec is correct, there is still a signed agreement in place to define the relationship and terms.

Sorry for any confusion!

A very popular fundraising format is to hold a local Dancing with the Stars competition. Choose local "celebrities" who are sympathetic to your cause and who can get you media coverage. Contact local ballroom dance studios/teachers to find who's willing to help. Most teachers get paid a discounted rate for an average of ten private lessons to prepare the celeb. The better your promos, the more interested you can get people in attending (& paying & donating).

Do your best to negotiate a free or very discounted ballroom. Hotels and caterers will sometime do this - or ask one of the dance studios. Some side activities could be brief dance lessons at the event, raffles for free lessons or lunch/dinner with the celebs.

Take plenty of pictures and videos - post on YouTube, use for promotion of next year's event.