Entering Paddle Raise / Special Appeal / Fund a Need Items

Variable amount donation items display in the admin view of the catalog, but are created and edited at Site Settings > Items > Cash Donation Options. A Paddle Raise redirect is provided in the Add/Edit Item > Type menu for your convenience.

Tips:

When you set up a Cash Donation option, you can specify the pledge levels you'll be asking for as "suggested donation amounts". Instructions for recording Paddle Raise pledges on event night can be found here.
If you will be conducting multiple paddle raises for different purposes, set up a separate cash donation option for each purpose (eg staffing vs scholarships) so you can track the funds dedicated to different uses.
You can choose whether the paddle raise item displays in the public catalog or not. For Gala only paddle raises, it is most common to keep the item hidden and for your auctioneer or someone within your organization to introduce the paddle raise and make the pitch for contributions during the live auction portion of your event.
When donating via Online/Mobile Bidding is selected, an optional Target Value field is available on the cash donation option form. When a Target Value is provided, it will display in the public catalog to show progress toward your goal. If the Target Value remains at $0, the Progress section will not display.
You can specify how (or whether) online contributors' names display in the public catalog at Site Settings > Items > Catalog Settings > Additional Online/Mobile Settings

To Set up a Paddle Raise Cash Donation Option:

Go to: Site Settings > Items > Cash Donation Options. Alternatively, if you select Type = Paddle Raise Redirect from Catalog from the Add/Edit Item form, you will be redirected to this page.
Click on Add Cash Donation Option and complete the form.
Name the "fund" then check the box to Offer at "Donate at Auction".
Specify whether you want the item to display in the public catalog or not. If you want it to display first in the public catalog - enter "1" in the Display order field.
Specify how you want your supporters to donate: via bid paddles, online/mobile bids, and/or virtual auction.
In the Price Info section, specify your suggested donation levels - and check the box to allow your supporters to specify their own amount. Enable Recurring donations (not available on Essentials Plans) if desired, and specify suggested donation levels. If you do not want to suggest donation levels, leave the field blank and only enable the custom amount option(s).
For online paddle raises, provide a description/pitch and image for the public catalog.
Save.