Fundraisers are an important source of revenue for nonprofit organizations.
Fundraisers are a vital component of a nonprofit organization. Raising money through a fundraiser can help to buy supplies for establishments such as animal shelters and schools or can help toward a larger goal such as the construction of a new building. Common fundraisers include barbecue dinners, walkathons, carnivals and casino nights, and all have the potential to raise large sums of money if organized properly. Although each fundraiser is different, there are common areas to focus on during the planning stage.
Instructions
1. Involve local authorities. Depending on the type of fundraiser, it may be necessary to obtain a permit from the community. If the fundraiser is taking place on a street or in a park, there may be restrictions with respect to dates and times that the event can occur.
2. Ensure that no other major events are taking place in the community on the same day as your fundraiser. According to Joan Stewart, contributor for Step By Step Fundraising, too many events happening on the same day can diminish your chances of receiving media coverage. Additionally, potential participants may be split between which fundraiser to attend.
3. Utilize new ideas. Keeping your fundraiser fresh and interesting can prevent the community from getting tired of the same old thing, and can also prevent volunteers from leaving. FundraisingResources.com recommends asking different volunteers to perform different jobs, rather than relying on the same people for the same things, year after year.
4. Recruit volunteers early in the planning process. Volunteers are vital to any fundraiser, and it is beneficial to have more than are needed. Provide volunteers with interesting and important tasks to increase the chances that they will help the organization again the following year.
5. Get publicity through local newspapers, radio stations and television stations. A well-written press release can be sent to media outlets for publication. Additionally, print posters, fliers and brochures for marketing purposes.
6. Connect with local businesses and build partnerships even before you solicit donations from them. When you ask for donations, do it in person. Additionally, always offer something in return for the business' support. For example, Mandy Stevens, contributor for FundraisingResources.com, recommends profiling a different business in each edition of your organization's newsletter.
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