Fundraising can be difficult, it can be time consuming and expensive. The success of the fundraiser depends on careful planning. Preparation and planning will determine what you need for the fundraiser to be a success.
1. Fundraising Purpose
Consider the purpose of the fundraiser and write down a purpose statement to share with others. The “why” is important to your supporters, volunteers, and participants.
When potential supporters know why you need to raise money they will be more likely to give. When volunteers understand why you need the money, they will be more willing to help.
Out of the thousands of groups that have used our fundraising envelopes to raise money, the ones with a clear purpose are the most successful.
Here’s a few examples of great fundraising purpose statements:
Example 1: We are raising money to help cover the costs of travel, uniforms, and equipment for our soccer team.
Example 2: Our church is raising money to add some additional space to the local homeless shelter.
2. Fundraising Goal
When a clear purpose has been defined, setting a goal will be easy. Set a main goal and include a stretch goal. Also, be sure to set a clear deadline. Communicate the goal and deadline with your group.
Here’s a few examples of fundraising goals:
Example 1: We have a $5,000 goal to fund the new computer lab in the elementary. Our goal is to have the money raised by April 30th. If we reach $5,000 before the deadline our stretch goal is $7,000.
Example 2: Our goal is to raise $10,000 for breast cancer awareness by August 15th. If we reach our goal before then, our stretch goal is $15,000.
Goals that are clearly defined before fundraising efforts begin will keep the group focused and determined during the fundraiser.
3. Fundraising Plan
Wouldn’t it be great if after the purpose and goal is set in place money would just materialized right before your very eyes? Unfortunately, this is not the case. Every successful fundraiser needs a clear plan.
Here are a few things to consider:
How much time do we have to raise the money?
What are we going to do to raise the money?
Do we have a budget to help raise the money?
If we have a target of $10,000, how can we get 5% more?
How many volunteers/participants do we have that can help with the fundraiser?
How can we get one more donation?
And so on…
The list can be endless, and the result adds to your fundraising profits in the end.
4. Fundraising Incentives
Often times, fundraising groups get stuck because they have a hard time keeping their eye on the prize… especially if there is no prize. 🙁
Something as simple as ice-cream, a pizza party, a gift card, or a night at the movies can go a long way to help get the group excited about reaching their fundraising goals together.
5. Execute
You’ve defined your purpose, you’ve set a goal, and you’ve clearly outlined a plan. Now it’s time to get it done. Stick to the plan.
Good luck and happy fundraising!