Nuci’s Space announced its fourth Rock n Raffle, which ended August 1, 2011, raised over $11k, bringing the total raised since 2009 to over $40k. The prize package for the most recent raffle included a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the Drive By Truckers perform during the Georgia Theatre Grand Opening Show series in Athens, GA. The prize package was valued at over $2500 with tickets available for purchase for $5.00, with 100% of the proceeds going back to Nuci’s Space. The lucky winner was Joseph from Altamont, NY.

Rock n’ Raffle was created in early 2009 as a response to declining contributions due to a fragile economy. Nuci’s Space has been fortunate to have very generous donors from outside of the local area. But reaching donors that are willing to contribute smaller amounts is a bigger challenge because Athens is home to a large number of non-profits that are constantly tapping the local market for donations. Board President and owner of Plexus Web Creations, Stephanie Sharp, wanted to create a mechanism to reach small donors outside of the local area and Rock n’ Raffle was the answer to this problem.

Rock n’ Raffle is an online raffle system where participants can donate money to an organization and have a chance to win a prize. This model of raffle depends on the same methodology of traditional raffles, i.e.: a great prize for a worthy cause. However, Sharp’s online raffle depends heavily on a viral component. The tickets are purchased online and buyers are given a dedicated link at their check out. This link prompts them to “share” the raffle via email lists, Facebook, and Twitter. When friends purchase tickets off the link share, the original buyer receives the matching number of tickets. This breaks down geographical barriers that organizations can typically face with traditional raffles and also encourages ticket buyers to spread the word throughout their social networks.

Sharp has begun licensing the online raffle software to other non-profits. There are no setup fees or up front costs. A small percentage of the revenues generated through the system are designated as a licensing fee. With minimal impact on an organization’s staff and no up front costs, many non profits are seeing the tremendous opportunity that this type of fundraising can provide.

Nuçi’s Space is a non-profit health and music resource center in Athens, GA. The aim of the organization is to prevent suicide by providing obstacle free treatment for musicians suffering from depression and other such disorders as well as to assist in the emotional, physical and professional well-being of musicians.

The center was founded by the parents of Nuci Phillips, a gifted musician and UGA student, who suffered from severe depression and ultimately committed suicide in 1991. His death highlighted the need for mental health support and general outreach to the artist and musician community in Athens. In the 10 years that Nuci’s Space has been open, it has helped thousands of artist and musicians gain access to the help that they needed whether it be business, legal, or health support. It has become an integral part of the Athens community.