A lot of clowns, when they are first starting out, get tricked into performing for free for a non-profit organization This, in itself, isn’t a bad thing, it is only when the non-profit starts to take advantage of the entertainer that it becomes a problem.

Here are three simple ways to be funny for “free” while still getting the most out of the performance. Free means that you get no monetary reward for performing your services. What you need to do is make sure that you always receive something for your services:

1. Tax write off- getting a statement from the non-profit organization stating that you donated the equivalent to $xxx.xx (your normal hourly rate times the length you where there). That way when tax time comes you have a wonderful write off from all of the “free” performances.
2. Food stuffs- are at almost every banquet type event. Make part of your “payment” be a meal for yourself and tickets to the benefit for two of your friends. That way not only do you get to eat, but someone can take pictures of you for your website or other publicity. Plus three more mouths eating a catered event isn’t going to cost the non-profit nearly as much as paying your normal fee.
3. Recognition- is another great method of getting your name out there and costs the non profit very little. Make sure that your name or company name is in the program or on flyers that are distributed. Also make sure that you are announced along with the other sponsors.

When you are approached by a non-profit for some free entertaining keep these three methods of “payment” in mind. That way you can do the gig for free and still get “paid”.