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I remember hearing and reading about one lady’s efforts of raising an astronomical amount of money for one family. I was not only shocked and amazed, but inspired. Out of the kindness of her heart, she went to all efforts to help this family in need. Nothing stopped her. Because, you see, this family’s pain and loss touched the hearts of so many; but yet a story of hope and inspiration. And another story of one woman’s fight to raise money, get the community involved, and set up this family for years to come.
And I remember thinking, how did she do it? Was it her or was it the generosity of the community? But in all honesty, it was both.
And sometimes it can be the story that inspires people to donate money. Sometimes it can be the story that inspires people to donate their time. And once you get the fundraising started, it can be a whole world of fun.
Here are seven of the most effective ways to raise money for a social cause, charity or a family in need.
Get the promotional products
When people wear a silly t-shirt, everyone remembers it. T-shirt printing is an affordable way to raise money. These days you can design your t-shirts online and get them delivered. Even better for those shopper haters like me. You can choose the colours, the design and the wording you prefer. You can print funny images, a quirky image, in bright colours, short sleeve or long sleeve. The choices are endless. And the more you print, often the cheaper they are, which is great for when you want to spread the word, and give something back to the generous people that are helping you. You can also sell wristbands, pens and brooches.
Hold a raffle
Holding a raffle isn’t as difficult as it sounds. You can request to carry it out at most community events and people are more than happy to help out. You can make up your own simple hamper from simple things like food, plants, or toys, or you can ask people from the community to donate goods as prizes. Prizes and giveaways are a great way to get people interested in donating.
Bake sale
Even if you’re not too hot on baking cakes from scratch, store-bought cake mix or cupcakes are great alternatives. Get others to help you out by making lots of different sweets to sell. Everybody has a sweet tooth; everybody loves a good treat.
Community garage sale
Garage sales are always a good way to get some cash when you need it. Get the local community together who are willing to donate items they no longer want. Hold a garage sale to sell all the unwanted items and donate the money to your cause.
Hold a community event
Children’s sports events, fetes and carnivals are great opportunities for fundraising. Some event ideas include charity functions, concerts, performances and shows. Just remember about those council laws and permissions that you may have to abide by.
Car wash
If you’re not particularly confident in the kitchen but want to do something for your community, you can hold a car wash. You can either wash the cars yourself, or team up with a car wash company who will donate some of their share to your cause. People are likely to become involved if it’s a car wash for a charity.
Become sponsored
Running a marathon is not for the faint of heart, but it is one honourable way to raise money for the charity of your choice. It requires much training and hard work before the event, but in the end you can raise quite a lot of money. There are other ways to get sponsored if you don’t wish to run a full marathon; like corporate sponsorship. Corporate sponsorship is when a for-profit company and non-profit organisation team together for their own and each others’ benefit. The charity receives financial help and the corporation receives recognition and potential improvement in their brand image.
Have you ever raised money for a specific cause? What are your fundraising tips?
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