My guild has a show every year and will continue at least for a few more years because it's one of our major money makers. Half of the proceeds (or more) are given in cash to small local charities. The remainder funds a very active philanthropy program, as well as helping fund various speakers during the year. Ours is a one-day outdoor show, so we don't have to pay for a venue. However the city and merchants who profit from increased tourism during our show have stopped giving as much support, so our expenses are up and profits are down. We do have members who spend countless hours working toward a successful show, and other members who don't even show up to help out. That's been true of every guild I've belonged to, and probably true of most organizations.