Fundraising Tips

Fundraising is often a key method used for collecting money or other resources in order to fund a project or to support a charitable organisation. This is done by requesting donations from various different people including businesses, individuals and government trust programmes.

Why is fundraising important?

Charities or non-profit organisations depend on donations to fulfil their goals in order to stop them from closing down. They do not gain a profit from their work, as anything they do make is given directly to the charity or cause that they are supporting. This means they need help from others in funding certain important things to keep them up and running, such as hiring a hall to hold meetings, or organising fundraising events to generate more money. Fundraising can also raise awareness to the public via the media, including newspapers, newsletters and websites on the Internet. It makes people stand up and listen. This is a very powerful tool, because it gets the word out to hundreds and sometimes even thousands of people, which can ultimately help to sustain long term support, which will help the organisation go from strength to strength.

How can fundraising be achieved?

Whether you need to fundraise on just one occasion or over a longer period of time, there are several ways to go about achieving it. A target figure is often set before deciding upon a plan of action. Some people opt to take up sponsored tasks such as a run, climb or even a silence, as this doesn’t usually cost anything to set up. Upon completing their goal, the promised donations are then handed over. Others simply go around with a collection pot asking the public for small contributions. With a little help from many people, it all adds up and can make a big difference.

Organising an event can also be another great way to raise money for a charity or other project. Proceeds are often in the form of ticket sales or sponsorship, and this often brings extra publicity, which can create a much larger impact and lead to further prolonged support. Sometimes even raffles or lotteries are arranged, where many individuals pay for a ticket, which gives them a chance to win a big prize. Essentially, this is a very clever way of making a good return, as if the prize is good enough you will sell a high number of tickets without having to spend on many different things. Selling goods or performing a service such as car washing, can also be another idea to bring in money.

Fundraising is a brilliant way of gathering financial support for something you could otherwise not afford to do. It brings groups of people together working as one to help support a beneficial cause. Anyone can do it; anyone can take one step further in making a difference.

Ruth Parasol: Ruth Parasol is a member of Bonita Trust Advisory Board. Her philanthropic contributions through family care project & Bonita Trust includes charitable grants to tackle family, health, education and cultural issues.