New Year, New Challenge - How to Kick-Start Your Fundraising
We know how daunting it can feel when you’re faced with a fundraising target and just don’t know where to start! All of our epic adventures require you to hit a minimum sponsorship deadline, giving you the opportunity to take on a life-changing challenge whilst donating much-needed funds to a worthy cause, and we can assure you that there is no better feeling than hitting that target and knowing that you are doing something amazing for an incredible charity!
So, where do you begin?! Our top tip is to start by breaking down your target into manageable chunks - you have plenty of time to reach that end goal so don’t see it as one amount you have to reach straight away! Bring it down into smaller amounts you need to reach throughout the year, having those broken down targets will make it seem so much easier, and you will feel more encouraged every time you reach your next goal. We know it may feel as though you’re asking the same people for donations again and again, but by doing various events throughout the year, offering your donors something in return and trying new ideas, it won’t feel like that at all.
Stuck for inspiration? Take a look at our fundraising suggestions below - spread these out throughout the year and you’ll be hitting your target in no time!
Collections
Ask around at some of the pubs, local shops, offices or restaurants in your area, see if you can leave a collection tin near the tills or even ask if you can come around with a collection bucket during a busy time at the pub. This is a fantastic way to build your collection as people will often throw their loose change into a charity pot at the till. Just make sure you ask the manager first - they are normally very accommodating.
Your charity will also be able to help organise a charity bucket collection for you in a public place, getting you set up with a time, date and venue and giving you a bucket, branded t-shirts and plenty of advice on how to get those donations!
Sweepstakes
Sweepstakes are an easy way to add some extra funds to your charity pot! Whether the topic is sporting events or the winner of a television show, there are plenty of opportunities throughout the year to get your friends or colleagues involved in this fun and easy way to raise money. Split the collection between your cause and the winner of the sweepstake - that way, you’re getting something out of it and so are they!
Pub Quiz & Raffle
Pub quizzes are a GREAT way to raise lots of money for your trip! Lots of venues will offer you the space for free, so do make sure you do plenty of research before you book your quiz. Speak to the manager and see if they can offer you any free prizes (such as a free round of drinks or a bar tab!) Each person then pays for their entry and you can also leave pots on the table for any loose change.
Why not email different companies, businesses or stores in the local area and see if they would like to donate any prizes for a raffle? Many will be happy to offer a prize for a worthy cause and everyone loves the chance to win a raffle!
Sharing on Social Media
It’s the easiest idea of them all - create your fundraising page and share it wherever and whenever you can! Put the link on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn, encourage friends and family to share it on their accounts and before you know it, you’re spreading the word about the amazing challenge you’re taking on to hundreds of people. You will be surprised how many people will donate to you this way, your cause or challenge will connect with people you perhaps haven’t spoke to for years but would love to contribute to the amazing charity trek or run you are embarking on.
Don’t just share once, put your page link out there at any opportune times in the run up to your challenge and remember, people are always more likely to donate around pay day, Christmas and your birthday so make sure you are sharing at these key times.
Games Night & Dinner Parties
In the months running up to your challenge, host a few dinner parties, gatherings or games nights at your house. Get all of your friends or family together for a wonderful evening of fun and food and ask each person for a donation on the night or leave a collection pot on the table. What better way to spend an evening than eating good food and playing games?! Plus, they will thank you for giving them a great night in for just £5 (or however much you choose to ask for) rather than the money they would have spent on a night out!
Fun Sports Events
A fun way to bring in those extra donations is to organise a big sports day with your friends and family in the local park. All you need is some imagination, some props and some enthusiastic participants and you’ve got yourself a great day! Charge each person a few pounds for entry and put on a fun and active day they’ll never forget. You could even end the day with a picnic and drinks in the park too. Other sporting ideas could include a swimathon, dance challenge or park run. These are great ways to get your donors doing something beneficial and exciting whilst raising funds for your cause, it’s a win-win!
Still need a few more ideas?
Dress Up/Theme Days
Get your team in the office or your class at university to pull on their best fancy dress around Halloween or Christmas (or any occasion!) and bring in your collection bucket for donations.
Bag Pack in Local Supermarket
Speak to the manager at your local supermarket and offer to do a bag pack, this is something your charity may also be able to arrange and is a great way to collect those extra funds!
Local Non-School Uniform Day
Your local school may be happy to put on a non-school uniform day in honour of your cause. Just get in touch and tell them all about your amazing charity and challenge.
Charity Ball or Party
If you want to go BIG then you can organise a charity ball, festival or party and charge people for tickets. This is a fantastic way to raise a huge amount - lots of planning will be required but it’s a great way to get lots of people involved in your cause and get a lot of donations!
