A Message from the
Managing Partner...
While reflecting upon the fifteen years we've been in the business of helping nonprofit organizations, I realize the truth in the saying: "the only thing constant in business is change."
At OAI, embracing change has been fundamental to our success. As we strive to anticipate and meet the needs of the nonprofit community, our clients, and the marketplace, OAI has evolved from a single-focused event management firm to a multi-faceted nonprofit management consulting firm. Our core services include strategic planning, board development, comprehensive nonprofit management, fundraising, event
management, and foundation management.
To help us share these exciting changes with you, I would like to introduce OAI's E-Newsletter. Each season we will highlight an OAI service and provide an update on our latest activities and programs. In this issue, we've chosen to feature a department that has been a core element of OAI's business since we opened our doors in 1991 — Event Management.
By combining thoughtful, innovative, and creative ideas with the latest in production technology — changes have been made to provide our clients with events that are more compelling, marketable, and cost-effective even as competition increases.
As the season of spring brings change, we invite you to experience the exciting new developments at OAI.
Moulin Rouge Brings the French Can-Can to NSF's 6th Annual Gala
Moulin Rouge came to Washington D.C. on March 27; the legendary Paris nightclub was recreated by OAI in the ballroom of the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel as the central theme and entertainment for the
The event included a reception and dinner along with a silent auction that took place the night of the event. Over 700 guests were hosted at the reception and dinner, and an additional 300 participated in the silent auction. OAI has worked with the NSF for six years to build this successful annual showcase, and this year's event raised $1,200,000.
New to this year's event was an online auction featuring more than 80 items, including exotic travel packages, bedding, and items related to the sleep industry. The online auction helped NSF raise $50,000 that will benefit ongoing efforts to improve public health and safety by achieving understanding of sleep and sleep disorders, and by supporting sleep-related education, research, and advocacy.
OAI is among the first consulting firms of its kind to provide this innovative secondary fundraiser and identity builder for clients such as NSF. Coupled with the appealing and attractive gala concept and program, this fundraising package set a new standard for NSF in terms of revenue and participation as well as identity and recognition.
What's Hot Now!
ALWAYS A TREND SETTER- Consistently beating Hollywood to the punch, OAI's production department has created an "Asian Chic" theme for Deafness Research Foundation's annual reception. Only a few weeks after the theme had been selected, the Academy Awards announced its 2006 theme which was also "Asian Chic."
The event was held on May 3, 2006 at New York's ultra-hip Hiro Ballroom at the Maritime Hotel in the city's Meatpacking district.
D.C. Luminaries Honor Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at NBR Gala
General Shalikashvili, the retired Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been a long time supporter and strong advocate of NBR throughout his years of service and retirement.
The evening program included many reminiscences and personal messages for the General, and attendees included Madeleine Albright, Senator Hillary Clinton, General Wesley Clark, Senator John Kerry and Teresa Heinz.
Highlights of the evening included live vocal performances by April Villanueva and Delores King Williams. One of the evening's most poignant moments came as the National Colors were presented by the United States Marine Corps Color Guard.
OAI not only managed the event production and fundraising, but also provided talent coordination and the live entertainment production for this spectacular event.
New York Knicks Partner with Youth, I.N.C. in Basketball Fundraiser
On March 30,
In partnership with Urban Dove, Youth, I.N.C. provides basketball court time to high schools without a "home court," allowing them to practice and host the home games required for participation in the Public School Athletic League and to field varsity and developmental teams.
First Lady Speaks on Behalf of Project HOPE's Children's Hospital
First Lady Laura Bush was the Honorary Chair for the event, and her attendance complemented the guest list of leaders in the healthcare and medical industries.
With only 2 months to execute this high level, black-tie reception and dinner for over 500 guests, OAI produced a flawless event and joint fundraising efforts raised over $1 million to support Project HOPE's Basrah Children's Hospital Campaign.
Coordination with the United States Secret Service and Diplomatic Security Service was essential and fully utilized OAI's experience in managing dignitary and VIP attendance. In addition to the First Lady, the event was attended by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice while Parade Magazine's Health Editor, Dr. Isadore Rosenfeld, served as Master of Ceremonies.
Guests were treated to a unique musical tradition from Basrah; Master singer and Oudist, Shawkat Sayyad, performed songs from the region.
Live from New Jersey...It's Thursday Night!
On February 9, 2006, OAI continued its eight-year relationship with nonprofit management client
PIF, founded by comedian and Saturday Night Live alumni Joe Piscopo, supports existing programs benefiting at-risk youth in New Jersey. This year's event featured a reunion of Saturday Night Live alumni including Victoria Jackson and Father Guido Sarducci (Don Novello).
The event was held at The Villa at Mountain Lakes in New Jersey and was attended by over 400 guests. Through OAI's efforts the event raised more than $150,000— a record setting result for PIF.
OAI's role included full event production, but also had significant travel and hospitality components for the long list of celebrity participants.
Upcoming News in the Summer Issue:
OAI Expands its Services
OAI's Nonprofit Management Services
Upcoming Events:
May 10 Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.
Washington, DC
June 8 Marriott Foundation
Washington, DC
