Traditional fundraising models at Balls have proven to be outdated
City of Pawtucket, August 30, 2025 (Bravanews) - In the Braven community in the United States of America, debate is growing about the effectiveness and relevance of traditional fundraising activities, especially those centered on dances and closed events. Although they have been part of the community culture for decades, many residents and observers consider this model to be outdated, especially in a context where more than 80% of revenues end up going to pay costs, leaving little for the social objectives they set out to achieve.
According to critics, the shelf life of these practices "passed more than ten years ago". Even so, various social groups and associations continue to insist on holding parties in halls with a reduced capacity - often less than 300 people - which limits revenue, while the costs of renting space, sound, artists, logistics and food consume almost all the money raised.
Fundraising activities have always played an important role in Bravense community life, whether to support social projects, help families in difficulty or fund cultural initiatives. Nowadays, however, many argue that the model has lost its effectiveness.
"It's nonsense to organize an event where 80% of the money raised goes to pay expenses. In the end, there's very little left for the real cause," laments one emigrant.
With technological evolution and the growing impact of social networks and the internet, new ways of mobilizing resources are emerging: digital campaigns, crowdfunding platforms and even the use of artificial intelligence to create promotional content. These means make it possible to reach larger audiences, both inside and outside the diaspora, with much lower operating costs.
Despite the criticism, the practice continues. Local groups and cultural associations argue that these events are not just about raising funds, but also about keeping traditions of conviviality and music alive. Dances and parties represent moments when the community meets, strengthening social ties.
However, even the supporters recognize that, financially, the results are limited. "Socializing is important, but we can't turn a blind eye: if it's to raise funds, we have to rethink the method," admits one association leader.
In the age of the internet and globalization, the Bravense diaspora - spread mainly across the United States and Europe - represents a significant source of financial support. Online platforms make it possible to channel this contribution more directly and transparently. In addition, digital campaigns eliminate high costs and can generate more expressive results.
Experts on associations argue that the island of Brava needs to adopt a hybrid model: preserve the cultural traditions of dances and parties, but separate them from the logic of fundraising. This way, recreational activities would retain their place, while fundraising efforts would be directed towards more modern, effective and sustainable means.
The discussion around fundraising at Brava reflects a larger dilemma: how to balance tradition and innovation. Although the dances have marked generations and are part of the cultural identity, the economic reality shows that the model no longer fulfills its main purpose.
At a time when social networks and digital tools make it possible to mobilize hundreds or thousands of supporters anywhere in the world, the challenge now is whether the Bravense community is ready to leave behind outdated methods and embrace new solidarity strategies.
Moises Santiago
