Many people dread being asked to fundraise for an organization. Whether they have handled this task before or are doing it for the first time, they know it is a huge task that can quickly become overwhelming. They must navigate obstacles and overcome challenges to have a successful event. Sadly, they may encounter challenges as they move forward.
A person asked to take on this task should turn to others who have handled similar events. Their years of experience planning successful fundraisers will be invaluable to the event organizer. What are some do’s and don’ts when a person is trying to secure funding for a memorial wall?
Set Realistic Goals
An event organizer must have realistic goals. The first step is to know what type of fundraiser will be held. When planning a memorial wall, the organizer must understand who to target for donations. Who is most likely to give to a fundraiser of this type? The next step is to know how much money needs to be raised and why it is requested. This information must be communicated to potential donors so they know what the funds will be used for and the impact. Without this information, the fundraiser will rarely be a success.
Don’t Go Overboard
While it would be nice for every fundraiser to bring in millions of dollars, the key is to be realistic about what can be achieved. Keep the goal established in the previous step and stick to it.
People who ask too much and push too hard often turn potential donors away and lose out on funds. Avoid being greedy, and people will be more willing to participate.
Gather a Team
Posting a successful fundraiser requires the help of countless individuals. There are many moving parts to an event of this type, and multiple jobs must be completed.The organizer must have a team to help them complete these tasks and ensure the fundraising goal is achieved.
Offer Incentives
One way to increase a fundraiser’s success is to offer donors an incentive. While it would be nice if every person would give from the goodness of their heart, that isn’t enough for many people to participate. Find an incentive that would draw people in. This might be a gift, a discount, a membership to the organization, or another item. The incentive should be based on the target audience to ensure it speaks to those most likely to donate.
Make It Easy to Donate
Every person helping organize the event must donate. People may wonder why they should give money if they have already given their time. Doing so ensures that donating is effortless. If someone has to work to provide funds for an organization, they may walk away. Offer several ways to donate, including dedicated phone lines, web pages, contact sheets, and more.
People are more likely to participate when they have choices regarding their donation method.
Recognize Those Who Donate
Organizers must track donors and keep a detailed list of their contact information. Many assume this is only necessary if future fundraisers are planned so they can contact these individuals and see if they would be willing to give again. However, recognizing those who are generous with their funds is also necessary, and gathering information about donors will ensure their generosity can be acknowledged. Acknowledgment may come as a thank you email, a letter, or recognition on the organization’s social media pages.
Event organizers must let donors know how the campaign is progressing. The donors want to know their funds are being used as intended, and regular updates will provide them with confidence that they are. They will see they are making a difference and may be encouraged to donate again, helping the event succeed.
