Des Smith Ray White Kemeys Brothers NZ
Who do you sponsor ? I commit annually to sponsorships with a personal spend of approximately $ 90,000 annually . This spend is distributed across a variety of sporting codes , schools , groups and individuals including : Wainuiomata FC club , Petone FC club , Wainuiomata Cricket club , Wainuiomata Rugby club , Wainuiomata Bowling club , Wainuiomata Darts team , Wainuiomata Tennis club , Avalon Tennis club , Ulalei Touch and Flag football , Ashes and MSK Cricket tournaments , Hutt Valley Gymnastics , Softball- Saints Team and Rylee Watt , Tribal Phoenix Fitness , Wainuiomata Little Theatre , St Bernard ' s College Football , St Patrick ' s Silverstream College Football and Sacred Heart College Football .
I head out on Saturdays to watch games in support and attend prize givings , fundraisers , shows and events whenever possible .
What benefits does it provide back for your business ? While the initial cost is significant , the benefits are tenfold . Sponsorship creates connections and relationships , building trust and in turn building business by word of mouth .
Raising of your profile is huge with signage in clubs , at fixtures alongside attendance to games , prize givings and events .
There is a Ray White logo on every game shirt , jacket , hoodie or cap and I hand out a few free umbrellas on the sidelines in winter . Your name is then at the forefront when someone is looking to sell or purchase real estate . It also provides lots of content for social media posts and increases your following .
It is definitely a commitment , but just starting with one or two sponsorship deals will provide rewards to your business .
What are you most proud of ? Being in a position to help out in my local community is a real privilege and something I always wanted to do . As a youngster into adulthood I ' ve participated and coached a number of club sports , so I ' ve had to do my fair share of fundraisers . I have always been aware of the financial struggles that clubs , schools and families face .
What difference does it make to the groups ? Sponsorship has enabled the continuation of endeavours with the ability to focus on important things . Teams and individuals can travel to represent without stress ; the show can go on ! I ' m often approached by people expressing their appreciation . Pre-paid school stationary or subs for the season so kids can play or try a new sport at no cost , or be thankful for the new hoodie or kit that gives a sense of pride . I ' ve never underestimated how uplifting those things can be .