A successful and well-advertised fundraiser can do far more for a burgeoning company, group, or organization than simply bringing in funds. If done in a professional and alluring way, a fundraiser can enhance the community’s image of the sponsoring business while making money for worthwhile causes. Many individuals embrace a civic-minded mentality and will be far more likely to patronize and engage with businesses that give their name and resources to a worthwhile charity, which makes hosting a fundraiser a win-win situation for those sponsoring such events.
Some things to remember when planning to host or sponsor a fundraiser to include the following:
Don’t Wait Too Long
The time to begin preparing for your upcoming fundraiser is now. Don’t wait too long, as even the most simple fundraisers take time to plan, schedule, organize, and host. As for the next fundraising event? Start brainstorming as soon as possible, and leap into it when you wrap up the current campaign. The best venues fill up their calendars early, and notable speakers may plan events up to a year in advance. Don’t be caught without a place to hold your event or a featured guest speaker that will draw crowds, due to procrastination. Organize your planning committee and get to work!
Think Outside the Box
A great way to generate a new crop of donors and keep interest alive in your cause is to think of something different and unique. For example, you could consider restaurant fundraisers, where a group eats at a restaurant on a particular day and the restaurant donates back a set percentage of sales to the group’s cause. These are easy to run, and you could even offer flexible dining options, such as eat-in, take-out, delivery, etc. You may also consider a salsa fundraising project. Alternatively, everyone has seen the recent explosion of people taking part in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge or the 22 Pushup Challenge for Veterans; these are prime examples of thinking outside the box when it comes to generating interest in your charity. Do something that hasn’t been done before, or alter a tried-and-true technique to intrigue current contributors and lure in curious donors.
Make the Most of Social Media
Fundraising trends are emerging that utilize social networking sites to spread the word about their campaigns. This is a great, no-to-low-cost way of getting your message out to potential donors and contributors. Don’t overlook the importance of taking your fundraiser to the world wide web. Set up a page with a memorable domain name that will allow for donations that might trickle in before, during, or even after your official fundraising event takes place.
Adopt an Attitude of Gratitude
The most common oversight of fundraising projects or event is when organizers forget to say “thank you.” Many donors will eliminate those groups, charities, or causes that neglect or overlook this very simple, courteous part of the fund-raising process. Just as you may appoint a group to plan the event, recruit workers, or even tend to food, organizing a group or individual to acknowledge appreciation to all who contribute to your cause, whether it is through participation in the event, assistance with the fundraising preparations, or a monetary donation. It takes very little time and effort to express gratitude and it is the most effective way to show donors that you value their time, effort, and care in regard to your organization.
A successful fundraiser comes down to diligent planning, fresh concepts, broad exposure, and artful appreciation. Take time to consider the benefits of involving your business in fundraising efforts for a worthy cause, and show your community that both you and your company truly do care about making a difference in the world.
