TIPS & TRICKS

Fundraisers can be used in so many ways. They can help a family get through a medical emergency, allow a non-profit organization to have a greater impact in their specialized field, and allow a company to reveal a commitment to their community. Here is a “Fundraising 101” packed with fundraising tips to help you create and maintain successful fundraisers.

Set Goals

You will want to have a total dollar amount you would like to achieve, and then break that down into smaller weekly and daily increments so you can adjust your public relations and updates as necessary. The goal is as much for your donors as it is for you, as they long to see a cause to which they have donated succeed.

Be Descriptive and Detailed

When donors are considering supporting a cause, they will have a lot of questions. One of the greatest fundraising tips is that you make sure your story is as descriptive as possible. Use names, locations, dollar amounts, facts, and figures. If you are a business raising funds for another agency or cause, explain why this particular need was identified and how it can help the community as a whole. Use real-life visuals whenever possible. People like to put a face to the cause they are supporting.

Focus Your Outreach

When doing your initial contacts, make sure you research your donors as thoroughly as possible. Try to find their likes and dislikes, charitable organizations and events to which they have contributed before, and particularly if they have any strong opinions on certain issues.

Know the Rules

Check your local ordinances and state financial institution requirements for fundraisers. If you go through a company like Simply Sheets or crowdfunding like GoFundMe, they will meet the requirements for you. If you are setting up your own fundraising event, you may have to apply to have your fundraiser registered for tax purposes.

Spread the Word

Social media like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe and Fundly have made it easier than ever to tell your story far and wide and reach as many donors as possible. Make sure that you are posting periodic updates (fundraising websites will usually automate this for you), and tagging previous donors in thank you posts is a good fundraising tip.

When your next fundraising need arises, you are now equipped with some successful fundraising tips, ideas, and strategies. If you are interested in a merchandise-based fundraiser, Simply Sheets is a wonderfully innovative concept that is sure to help you succeed. Simply click here for more Simply Sheets Fundraising information.

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