Less than a month away from celebrations nationwide of the country’s independence, Coronado Fourth of July (CFOJ) – an all volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization – still welcomes financial contributions to support the city’s biggest event.
Vice President Maggie Hannegan, in charge of sponsorship and fundraising, shared the biggest sponsors as of June 1, have committed enough money to pay for the entertainment and most of the announcer stations for the 74th annual parade that starts at 10 a.m.
However, she said opportunities are still available to help cover a full-day’s Independence day experience.
Hannegan said it cost about $200,000 to “put the day on,” and CFOJ so far has raised about 25% of the costs but expects to raise the remainder by July 4th.
“It’s an expensive undertaking every year…We are continuing to get donations.”
CFOJ Vice President Maggie Hannegan
“It’s an expensive undertaking every year,” said Hannegan. “We are continuing to get donations.”
Letter writing campaign
CFOJ is starting to see results from a letter sent out to every household and business in town. They also anticipate funding from the city this month.
“This is about where we were this time last year, and we were able to raise the funds and get it done,” said Hannegan. “Any and all gifts make a difference and help us to sustain the organization and sustain the 4th of July.”
Sponsors’ levels range from thousands of dollars and according to Hannegan, corporate sponsors, who typically donate $2,000, have their banner on one of the 14 announcer stations along the parade route.
CFOJ recognizes sponsors through respective benefits that may include day of recognition as a lead sponsor, year-round recognition, invitation to private events and more, according to the CFOJ website.
Announcer, hospitality stations available
For the celebration, Hannegan said CFOJ still is looking to fill two announcer stations and two hospitality stations.
One of the hospitality stations includes the VIP tent for all military leadership and support staff.
“Someone who has a tie to the military who would like to show support, that’s a way to do it,” says Hannegan.
Sponsorship opportunities also include the chance to provide stipends for some of the entertainment that takes place down Orange Avenue, like the high school marching bands and the bagpipes.
Other opportunities
Hannegan said CFOJ still is looking for a sponsor to cover volunteer activities with benefits including the sponsor name and logo on CFOJ annual custom volunteer t-shirts.
Folks interested in volunteering are also needed.
“We really can tailor an opportunity around whatever someone is interested in,”
-CFOJ Vice President Maggie Hannegan
“We really can tailor an opportunity around whatever someone is interested in,” said Hannegan. “A gift of any size makes a difference…We appreciate the $25 checks that we get, and we appreciate the $10,000 checks we get.”
Biggest Sponsors
This year’s Parade Sponsor is Bob Campbell & Becci Rocco. The Fireworks Sponsor is Ariston Services Group and the LeapFrogs Sponsor is Merrill Lynch: The Morris Sevier Group. Arendsee Family Foundation is the Concert Sponsor.
The list of Announcer Station Sponsor includes: Cal Private Bank; California American Water; Judy and Doug Clark; Coronado Brewing Company; The Coronado News; Crosswalk Properties, Inc.; Crown City Magazine; Dirt Cheap Demolition; Nicolls Design Build; QualCraft Construction; Rotary Club of Coronado Foundation; Tartine; Transportation Services.
Parade Supporter category includes Marine Corps League, Coronado Detachment and Bish Bash.
The Coronado News can be found in the Churchill block during the parade.
Hannegan said the largest sponsor last year was the City of Coronado, donating $55,000 for fireworks.
Interested in supporting Coronado Fourth of July? Businesses or individuals may reach out to Maggie Hannegan via email at maggiehannegan@gmail.com for more information.
