Raising funds can be a difficult task regardless of the cause. Many people have trouble asking others for money due to the fear of rejection. What most people don’t realize is that it’s how you ask that determines if you will receive. People have to understand what the need is and how their funding will help. You have to find unique ways to present your need and request assistance. People are more willing to give if they are getting something in return. Fundraising letters and phone calls have become a lot less effective in this era of cyberspace. People read their emails more frequently than their mail and mainly answer calls from parties they recognize on their Caller ID. You have to use the current most popular methods of communication to reach your target audience.
Effective ways to communicate and gain an audience:
- Social media platforms are used to educate your audience on the mission of your organization and how people can assist in accomplishing its goals. This is a perfect avenue to advertise fundraising events.
- Blogging has become a common trend. Develop a blog for your organization. Use this as a platform to provide news, education and announcements on similar causes. You can advertise events on your own blog or submit your events to local popular blogs with large audiences.
- Monthly newsletters have always been a popular method of communication. Originally these were sent by mail to current and prospective contacts. Now they are mainly sent electronically by email. This method also supports the “Go Green” movement.
- There are many local and online newspapers where you can promote your event at no cost.
In order to stand out from everyone else that is trying to obtain funding, you have to get creative. Plan fun and interactive activities that everyone can enjoy to make it a memorable event.
Here are some unique and classic fundraising ideas that may inspire you:
An American Idol like performances have done well for some organizations. Rent a karaoke system and set up a few judges and let participants compete in sing-off.
Swear jars
Themed parties – If you’re short on ideas, United Way has a big list of theme ideas here.
Karaoke night – Similar to the American Idol night, but without the contest aspect to it.
Comedy Trivia – This is something I’d never really heard of until I stumbled across Left of Entertainment. A professional comedian hosts several rounds of questions and continually engages the audience to initiate donations and bids. Sounds very entertaining! You can find out more about it here.
Carnivals are a time-tested and proven way to raise money for your organization. There are lots of easy, fun DIY ideas to incorporate into your carnival here.
Movie night
Game night
You can request a minimum donation for entrance or participation to events. Make sure you have prizes to entice participants: Trophies, ribbons, t-shirts, mugs, etc. People love to walk away with souvenirs and prizes. This will also keep you constant in their thoughts. Make sure that your cause is conveyed regardless of the fundraising approach. You don’t want them to just remember the event, you also want them to remember the reason behind it.
