STEPS Pathways Charity raised $310,000

Who

STEPS Pathways Charity is dedicated to building brighter futures for young people living with disability and autism. Their unique college is the only one of its kind in Australia, helping students learn lifelong, independent living skills.

The annual STEPS Grand Winter Ball is both a major fundraiser and an iconic celebration on the Sunshine Coast. Now in its 16th year, the black-tie gala not only raises vital funds but also showcases the incredible impact of the Pathways College while engaging the wider community in support of its mission.

What

The 2025 Grand Winter Ball, held on 26th July at the Sunshine Coast Function Centre, was a night of elegance, inspiration, and generosity.

Guests enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal with full table service and a five-hour drinks package. The evening began with a vibrant dance performance before the CEO and Managing Director welcomed attendees and introduced the students whose futures were at the heart of the event.

A professional auctioneer led spirited bidding on eight live auction prizes, while guests also took part in the raffle and an online silent auction. Impactful videos, heartfelt stories, and powerful messaging highlighted the life-changing work of STEPS Pathways Charity. Sponsors were acknowledged for their vital role in covering costs and ensuring the event’s success.

Once the formalities concluded, the celebration continued with live music and dancing late into the evening.

How

Fundraising for the Grand Winter Ball begins months before the event itself. Tickets go on sale three months in advance, with the online auction opening four weeks ahead to build anticipation and early bidding. Online raffle tickets launch two months before the event, with 2025 using a hybrid model of digital sales and traditional ticket books, and a transition to fully online raffles planned for 2026.

On the night, the team kept guests engaged with a seamless blend of entertainment and fundraising. Dance performances, live music, and moving stories showcased the impact of the charity’s work, while Givergy’s platform supported both the raffle and auctions. The online silent auction remained open throughout the evening, closing at 10:30pm to maximise engagement.

Result

The 2025 Grand Winter Ball raised an incredible $310,000, surpassing its target of $250,000 and slightly exceeding the total achieved in 2024.

Although attendance remained consistent with previous years, the average donation per guest increased significantly, demonstrating the growing generosity and commitment of the STEPS community. A stronger social media presence and earlier campaign launch also played a key role in driving this year’s success.

Top Tip: “Our biggest tip is to start early. Set your ticket prices, begin collecting prizes and donations, and launch your marketing strategy well ahead of time. With so much competition for fundraising, being in market longer gives you the best chance of success.

It’s also vital to really understand the Givergy platform and use its tools to create a smooth guest experience. And finally, be impactful. People want to connect with your mission — tell them what you do, share the stories, and show the real difference their support makes.”

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