Getting started
• Define the cause: Specify goals so everyone is on the same page.
• Set the date/time-frame: Ensure people's availability and avoid conflicts with other events.
• Choose a suitable venue -- if one is required.
• Create a public relations/promotions committee to inform as many people as possible.
• Assign tasks (determining who's doing what is always important).
• Make sure the charity is legit! If money is being sent to an organization, visit the Better Business Bureau of Canada to double-check the legitimacy the non-profit group you're interested in.
• Seed money: If your fundraiser requires some start-up money, consider asking for a few up-front donations from the head of your company, or from a few local businesses, for example.
• Hidden costs: Before you do anything, brainstorm as a group for any unexpected costs.
• Have fun! Getting together to raise money doesn't have to be boring.
Check out these 10 no-fuss fun ways to raise funds in your home, community or workplace. Each fund-raiser is rated in terms of suitability for Office/Workplace, Community/Neighbourhood or Home (Friends/Family).
1. Hold a street or neighbourhood garage sale: You're tired of looking at that Elvis bust next to the TV screen in the rec room. Don't throw it out – it'll be snapped up before you can say, "Blue Suede Shoes" at a neighbourhood garage or street sale. Grab all of those (questionable) items and dust-laden keepsakes that are destined for the garbage – and put them out on a table at the end of your lane on a chosen Saturday morning in nice weather. Get all of your neighbours to do the same. Enlist the kids and teens to do the running around, like designing and distributing posters – that can be their way of contributing.
All funds raised (or a percentage) can go toward a cause of choice. For those neighbours who have nothing to sell, they can volunteer as 'runners' and errand helpers throughout the day, helping to put stuff out, minding the table and pitching in with end-of-day cleanup. A street potluck or BBQ would be a nice finishing touch.
Tip: If you're raising money for relief efforts to help victims of, say, earthquake victims in Haiti or China, consider playing music of that culture throughout the day as a reminder of the reason that you've all gathered together.
Recommended for: Community/Neighbourhood.
Page 1 of 5 - Read about showing off your talent to raise funds on page 2
