Do you want to raise money for a good cause but are not sure where to start? Supporting a charity can be incredibly rewarding but can also be overwhelming. Whether this is your first time raising money, or you are a seasoned fundraiser, the challenge of coming up with fundraising ideas to keep supporters engaged can be tricky.
There are many ways to raise funds, from a bake sale to a sponsored skydive. You need to think of something both you and your supporters can get on board with. In this guide, we share our top 6 charity fundraising ideas to help you boost awareness and gather support for your good cause.
1. Set a Clear Target
As Benjamin Franklin, visionary founder of the U.S., said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Keep this mantra front of mind on your fundraising event journey. Setting a clear, and more importantly, achievable goal before you begin fundraising will keep you focused. Remember, the target can always be raised if surpassed.
2. Plan, Plan, Plan
The key to a successful fundraising event is planning. Have a clear vision of how you are going to meet your target. A robust plan will also keep you calm during the event itself and ensure you are ready to seize every opportunity that comes your way. Come up with a selection of fundraising ideas that could be successful in meeting your target. These need to be things you have an interest in and passion for. Charity work can require a lot of effort, so you need to be invested. Consider:
- Who is your target audience?
- Why should they support your cause?
- What type of event would they attend?
- How many attendees can you expect?
- Where could you host this event?
- Who will be able to help you? E.g. local businesses, teams, and personalities
- How will you advertise the event?
These are all elements that need to be carefully considered and organised. Raffles are always a viable option when it comes to a fundraising event. Get your planning hat on!
3. Shout About It
What you are doing is amazing! Raising money for a good cause could transform someone’s life, so shout about it! Let your friends, family, neighbours, and work colleagues know about what you are doing, and how much you plan to raise. Who knows, they might have valuable contacts to put you in touch with, or fundraising ideas to share with you. The more people that know about your plans, the more sponsorship you are likely to receive. That’s the aim, right?
4. Don’t Be Shy
The phrase, ‘if you don’t ask, you don’t get’ couldn’t be more appropriate when it comes to planning a fundraising event. Get out into your community and approach businesses to ask for help and donations. Support could come in the form of money, publicity, marketing support, raffle prizes, anything that helps. Often small businesses are happy to support a good cause. We recommend calling or making a visit in person. It’s a lot harder to say, ‘no’ in person, than email.
5. Get Social!
Social media is a fantastic platform to spread the word. Create an event on Facebook and invite every man and their dog – the more the merrier! You can link your online fundraising page, such as Just Giving, to your Facebook event. Supporters who can’t attend the event may be willing to support you and the cause from a distance. Social media platforms are a great way to get the word out when your advertising budget is little above zero!
6. Come Together
Coming together as a community is a vital part of fundraising. It is so rewarding to join forces for a good cause, meet new people, share stories, and support one another. Find a fundraising event venue that provides your supporters with an opportunity to let their hair down and have fun. If you consider what makes a great evening out for you – good food, thrilling entertainment, and welcoming hospitality – you will narrow your search considerably.
How to Organise a Fundraising Event
If you are looking for a fun and friendly fundraising event venue, Owlerton Stadium ticks all the boxes. Enjoy a night of live racing action, mouth-wateringly good food, and an electric atmosphere – all in the name of charity! Host your event in the Panorama Restaurant, one of our THREE bars, or in our stylish VIP hospitality boxes.
We provide tickets free of charge. Each ticket provides entry to the racetrack, a race card guide, and a drink – worth up to £9.60 – all you need to do is sell tickets for a recommended price of £5, and enjoy!
PLAN YOUR FUNDRAISING EVENT
For more information on hosting a fundraising event at the Owlerton Stadium speak to our team on 0114 234 3074 or email: enquiries@owlertonstadium.co.uk
