Make Your Fundraiser a Success

If you’ve made the decision to set up a CanadaHelps Fundraising Page to support your favourite charities, you’re already doing something great. Since giving back is clearly important to you, we want to help you make the most of your fundraiser. Here are some tips for making it a big success!

Create a fundraising page that people want to read and share.

A fundraiser is about more than money; it’s about a story. Let people know why you’ve chosen a cause, and what donations will support. If you have a personal connection to the charity or cause, share it with your friends, family, and colleagues.

Pictures are also a great way to connect with potential supporters. A photo illustrating the charity’s work is a great way to bring the cause alive, or if you’re fundraising for personal reasons, you may want to use a picture of yourself or a loved one you’re honouring.

It’s even fun to show pictures of your fundraiser preparations. If you are doing a run, show off your new runners. If you are holding a garage sale, post regular updates on the collection of items you will sell.

Give your fundraiser credibility by making the first donation yourself.

People want to know that you’re committed to the cause. You may also want to reach out to a few people who are more likely to support your cause before reaching out to your whole network. Having a few donations on record will help set the tone for your fundraiser.

Set a goal and a deadline.

Set your goal high enough to inspire people to give, but at a level reasonable enough that people won’t be intimidated.

Try suggesting an amount to donate when you share your page, and tailor your request for different audiences – people whom know you personally may be willing to give more than acquaintances or people within an extended social network.

Get social.

Social media is a great way to share your cause with a wider audience. Share your Fundraising Page when you launch your event, and regularly thereafter. The internet is overflowing with content with lots of noise to compete with so change up your message regularly to keep people engaged: report on fundraising progress, count down until the end of the campaign, or share and give thanks for a larger donation (even if given anonymously). You can also share a story about the charity you’re supporting and why you’ve chosen it.

At a party? Mention your fundraiser and, when friends show interest, ask them to it share on Facebook, Twitter, or through email to reach as many people as possible.
Whenever possible, try to include an image or even a made-at-home video to pull people into the cause and inspire them with your commitment.

Use every opportunity to spread the word.

Online is great, but don’t underestimate the power of a personal connection. Next time you’re in a meeting, try adding a one minute agenda item to speak to your fundraiser. You could also post a flyer on the fridge at work, change your screensaver for everyone to see, write cards by hand to friends and family, or invite your friends to join your cause the next time you have brunch. Plus, don’t forget to hit-up your boss and your company for a donation.

Offer prizes. Rewards and incentives are a great way to encourage people to donate, or to encourage larger donations for different prize levels. If you’re a great cook, consider inviting friends to a fundraiser dinner: they donate a pre-determined amount and you reward them with delicious food and drinks. If you have a teachable skill, offer a class in thanks for a donation. You can even offer to clean someone’s house, run errands, help with taxes, or babysit – the list is endless. It’s a great way to convert your skills and time into donations for causes you’re passionate about.

However you choose to promote your Fundraising Event, don’t be shy. Many people will be happy to support your cause, but they can’t give if you don’t ask. Just be sure to thank your supporters – after all, they’re helping you change lives.