The world today needs compassion and understanding—badly. As entrepreneurs and leaders, it is a binding obligation for all of us to get involved in community service. That is, if we want to leave our mark in the community where we operate and to echo the same to the whole wide world. As a professional fundraiser, finding ways to help other people rise from the rut is nothing short of fulfillment. Fundraising is not just fun and rewarding but it also opens an opportunity for others to echo the same fervor in their lives.
As an advocate, I have created a guide on how to organize a fundraising event for the first time. This is in the hope that one small gesture of compassion will reverberate to many. To jumpstart your campaign, here are some simple ways to ensure fundraising success.
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Have a purpose in mind. We often see a lot of businesses engaging in fundraising to gain media mileage and to capture a huge chunk of the market. It will be hypocritical not to say that at some point, you will also think that way. But always, see to it that your main purpose take front, back and center. In doing so, you can organize better and clearer goals.
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Plan big but keep your expectations small. It’s alright to dream of raising millions but be realistic. Often, your fundraiser is commensurate to the scope of attention an event takes. Geographic location is also another important aspect to take into consideration. But always, stick to what’s nearer to the truth. It will save you a lot of heartaches later on.
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When planning the budget for your fundraiser, consider the following aspect: staff, food, security, invitations and promotions, venue rental, entertainment fees, transportation, utilities, licenses (if required), and other incidentals required for the event. Some even resort to hiring of events organizer. Some also add liability insurance as a safety net in the event of unforeseen horrors. Keep in mind though that the focus here is to raise money and not to spend.
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Create a host committee and make sure to choose those who are passionate about the cause you are advocating. This is not just about celebrity status or because they have the money to splurge. Your choice must be able to inspire and motivate others while ensuring fundraising goals are met.
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Keep your leads circle small and focused. Too many cooks will spoil the broth, they say. The same can happen to a fundraiser. Appoint committee heads and support network—but keep everything in a collaborative manner by doing regular meetings and follow-ups on progress.
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Of course, don’t forget to identify target audience. This will guide you on how to market or promote the event. The clearer the demographics, the easier to set-up marketing strategies and tactics.
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Choose the time and date as well as the venue in advance. Consider transportation, safety and security, and other incidentals. Add to venue planning the aspects on catering, entertainment, and other itinerary you wish to add. Make sure there is no conflict with another fundraiser, too.
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Market. Promote. Market. Make good use of all media sources—print, television, social media, email and postmail, broadcast, word of mouth, and so on. This will also handle search for volunteers. Have a focused team with a sound marketing plan in place.
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Don’t forget to give thanks. A small amount of gratitude goes a long way. Send thank-you notes to everyone involved. You will be seeing more of these people soon enough.
A fundraising event is actually considered the best way of giving back to society. It is high time to liberate your inner awesome by planning your first fundraiser. See how making others happy create ripples of happiness that knows no bounds.