Tips and Tricks for Fundraising
Top 10 Fundraising Tips
1. Aim high: Strive to surpass the $300 fundraising minimum. The more money you raise, the more impact you will have on helping women rebuild their lives after abuse. Remember each minute of your time is worth $5 so don’t be afraid to ask friends and family to sponsor you for more than one minute.
Example:
1. Ask 5 neighbours for $5 each = $25
2. Ask a spouse or partner for support = $25
3. Make a pledge on your own behalf = $30
4. Ask 3 relatives for $20 each = $60
5. Ask 4 friends for $20 each = $80
6. Ask 4 co-workers for $20 each = $80
Grand total: $300
2. Create a list of potential donors: Compile a list of everyone you know. The more people you ask, the more donations you are likely to receive. Remember social networking sites. Take advantage of sites like Facebook, Twitter and Linked In. These online communities are amazingly popular and you will find old schoolmates, friends, and previous coworkers there. Everyone is a potential donor.
3. Expand your giving circle: You can multiply your donations by giving additional donation forms to your family and friends who have already donated, or asking them to email their friends with a link to your Personal Page.
4. Follow up: If you haven’t received a response from someone you’ve asked for a donation, be sure to follow up. Make a phone call or send a quick note to make sure that they haven’t forgotten your request.
5. Thanking your donors: It is very important that you thank your donors! Once you have received a donation from someone, let them know that their contribution, whatever the amount, is important to you and that you appreciate it.
6. Explore new options: Post a BootCamp for Shelter from the Storm notice/ poster on a bulletin or announcement board in one of the following locations: gym, community centre, place of worship, local school, book club, hobby group, seniors centre, daycare.
7.Voicemail message: Change your voicemail message and let everyone know you‘re fundraising for BootCamp for Shelter from the Storm. Let them know you need their support! 8. Utilize your personal page: Take advantage of your personal web page. Share your story, post a photo and video, and request donations. Your personal page automatically tracks your fundraising balance, so you and your donors can watch your progress.
9. Customize your email signature: Add a line about BootCamp for Shelter from the Storm and ask for support.
10. Emails: Go virtual and send an engaging note via email. Login to your personal page and use the email function. Your emails will automatically include a link to your personal page so that your supporters can donate directly to you online.
Take it to the Next Level!
Company donation matching programs: Does your company or employer match your donation fundraising efforts? Visit your human resources representative to find out if this is a possible fundraising opportunity for you. Many companies are eager to support their employees, as well as the community. Send out a personal note or letter to all the suppliers and external contacts you work with asking them for their support.
Fundraising parties: Invite guests to a party, letting them know that it’s targeted around fundraising so they are not surprised. At the party, explain how their donations will be used. Pass out donation forms and encourage them to contribute.
Expand your donor network: There may be some people who simply can't give this year. But you can expand your list of potential donors by asking them if they know someone else who would be willing to donate.
Hometown press: Sharing your story with the media is a great way to bolster your fundraising campaign and raise awareness about the cause in your community.
