Fun & Effective “Fundraising Tips!”
Here are some helpful ways to get you started collecting a record breaking amount of pledges for Pet Walk 2008!
Set a Goal for yourself
Share your goal with your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors, they know you are dedicated to helping homeless animals and will support you first! They can also cheer you on!
Just “Ask!”
Most of us find the one of the hardest part is just asking. Remember most people like to support a good cause and enjoy pitching in. You are doing something very special and need support.
Make a List
Start with a list of pledge donors that you are going to approach and how much money you are going to ask. You can then decide if you will communicate in person, by phone, letter, or email.
Face-to-Face
Talking with people in person is a great way to share your passion and ask for their support in helping our homeless animals. Let them know why you are participating and how every pledge helps.
Pick up the Phone!
Gather up a list of people who you can call by phone. For some people this is easier than asking in person. Let them know you are participating in the upcoming walk-a-thon. You can share with them the wonderful programs and services at HHS or share a personal experience you have with adopting, volunteering, or with animals.
Write a Personalized Letter
Download our “sponsor me” donation letter and personalize it with details about you and why you are walking. You can even include a self-addressed stamped envelope to make it easier to respond. Donation Letter Send an E-Mail Invite
Many people like to communicate through email. It allows the person to respond at their convenience. Consider the form of communication that best matches your friends, family, and co-workers.
Ask for a Specific Amount
Many people don’t know what to give. Decide what you think an average donation should be and ask for that specific amount, like $50. This gives people an idea of
what to give and increases the chance of you receiving a donation.
List your highest pledge first!
Always list your highest pledges on the first lines of your pledge sheet. When others are filling out your pledge sheet, they will see how much other have given, and may
be inspired to give a bit more!
Matching Gifts
Many employers have a matching gift program supporting the fundraising efforts of their employees. You could also ask your donors if their employers offer this program!
Keep in touch
Make sure to keep your supporters up to date on how much money you have raised and how close you are to your personal goal, so they can share in your success. Also,
remember to send a note of thanks to each donor.
Voicemail Greeting
Consider changing your voicemail greeting to include your participation in the Pet Walk fundraiser.
Email Tag Line
You can include a tag line on your e-mails that promotes your participation in the Pet Walk fundraiser.
Message Board
If your company has a message board or bulletin board, you could ask to put up note informing co-workers that you are participating in the upcoming walk-a-thon.
Fun & Effective “Fundraising Activities!”
Here are some creative and fun ways to raise pledges
Host an Outing or Theme Party
Invite a dozen or more of guest for an evening of fun with the added plus of doing a good deed! Charge an admission fee, which goes directly to your pledge collection.
The fee should be determined based on the event and cover your costs too. If you collect $25 a person, you will have raised $300 (minus costs). Charge more or less depending on your event theme and the group you invite.
Party Themes:
Casino Night
Wine Tasting
Themed dinner party
Specialty drinks & gourmet snacks
Sweets &Treats
Chili party or BBQ cookout
Birthday party with a purpose
Anniversary party with a purpose
Manicure/pedicure Spa
Treasure/scavenger hunt
Board game night
Host a Bake Sale
Perhaps you a bake sale in conjunction with a school or church event and share the proceeds. If your employer allows, host a bake sale at work! Everyone loves sweets!
Create a Donation Jar
Decorate a can or jar with a photo of you and your pet. You should include that all contributions will support your efforts in the Pet Walk for helping homeless animals. Make sure to keep it in a prominent position with high traffic!