iml, A Leading Provider of Pledge & Silent Auction Systems, Helped Robin Hood Raise $72.6 Million With Friendly Competition and Electronic Keypads

NEW YORK, May 21, 2009 — In a time when philanthropic dollars seem to be disappearing, Robin Hood, one of the city's leading poverty-fighting organizations, had a different outcome at its most recent event in New York City with the help of iml's Pledge technology.

Jon Stewart, the emcee of the evening, called for the 3100 gala attendees to donate solely by pledge. No trips around the world, no dinner with celebrity chefs, just the individual guest, an iml electronic keypad, and a little friendly competition amongst table sections. Anne Hathaway, Eli Manning and Brian Williams rallied for their sections, but 18 minutes and $27.7 million later, Section 3 was declared the winner. However, everyone knew that night who the true winners are; 1.9 million men, women and children who live in poverty in New York City.

This type of charity event would typically see less than a 10% participation rate, but Robin Hood decided to do things differently this year. They enlisted the help of iml and its electronic bidding system to raise funds, resulting in a 72% participation rate, and a significant increase in the total amount raised.

Mark Bezos, SVP Development & Communications at Robin Hood, stated, "We were blown away by the number of people who responded this year. Not only did the technology help us increase the night's overall revenue, but it was easy and fun for everyone to get involved. Whether they were able to donate $10,000 or $10, each person was able to make a contribution, and do so anonymously. And when they saw their respective section's total rising in real time ... the energy in the room was electric. I think that in this economy finding new ways to engage more guests in the fundraising process can make a real difference."

About iml
iml is a leading global supplier of interactive meeting & event technology. Their award-winning, interactive audience response keypads and software are recognized globally as the most advanced and sophisticated audience response system available.