Community Online Fundraising Made Easy

Community online fundraisers are often inspired by a desire to help a local organisation, individual or family.

But if you’re not a professional fundraiser, how can you make your cause count? Here are some ideas to fire-up your fundraising:

1. How much do you need to raise?

Discuss your ideas with the people or organisations you want to help. What do they need most and when do they need it?  

Larger amounts may take longer to raise.  Be realistic about what you can achieve in the time you have.

2. How will you do it?

There are plenty of ways to raise money.  You can undertake a tough personal challenge, such as climbing a mountain or completing a marathon.

But if you’re short on time (or fitness!) keep it simple.  Online fundraising platforms offer easy ways to raise lots of cash without breaking sweat.

Online raffles are so easy you don’t even need paper tickets.  And if you don’t have time to organise physical prizes, a cash prize raffle makes it super simple.   A cash prize raffle means the winner takes a percentage of the ticket sales (you can decide in advance what that percentage will be).

An online silent auction is also a great way to raise funds, especially if you have some awesome prizes to put up for auction. Bidders compete for prizes via a dedicated online page. Highest bidder wins! Simple.

3. Set a deadline

Have a fixed day and time for your fundraiser to finish. As the deadline approaches you can create urgency by reminding your supporters that they only have a short amount of time to get involved.

4. How Can People Pay?

Think about how you will collect your funds.  Stall based fundraisers, such as bake sales and lemonade stands, are likely to be cash only so make sure you have a coin float to facilitate those early sales.

Online raffles and silent auctions will process payments via credit/debit card.  Just check-in with your online provider to make sure their credit card platform is secure.

5.Spread the word

Once you’ve decided what you want to do, the next step is to spread the word to as many people as possible.

6.Tell your story

Whether it’s through printed flyers or social media, take time to explain why you’re doing what you’re doing.  

What will happen if you don’t raise funds?  Why does your cause matter and how will your fundraiser make a positive difference?

Show potential supporters how their money will be used.  If possible, be specific. Will it buy equipment, treatment or experiences?

Make an emotional connection for people.  Help them to empathise with your cause. How would they feel if they had the same need?

7. A Note About Social Media

In the digital age, story sharing has become second nature. Social media is an effective way to raise awareness for your fundraiser.  

Think about which type of people are likely to respond best to your story.

Facebook is appropriate for longer posts whereas Twitter posts are shorter and snappier. Younger supporters will respond best to Instagram or Snapchat, older supporters will be more active on Facebook.

If you have a link to an online site (e.g. your online raffle) include it in your communications.

Watch your notifications so you can answer any questions and circulate messages of support.

…and with that...

You’re Ready to Go

Good luck with your fundraiser. We know it's going to be awesome!

‍