Fundraising tips

Online fundraising in action: Making the most of the internet

The power of the Internet is amazing. Now you can create your own personal fundraising web page, send your message worldwide, promote your cause, collect donations and thank contributors, all from the luxury of your own computer.

Here are a few easy tips to make the most of this powerful technology.

1. Promote your personal fundraising webpage at EVERY opportunity. The easiest way to do this is to add a link to your page into your email signature line. Maybe like this. "I'm using my Breath4CF at the Nike fun run on Oct 3rd. Please support me by visiting my site http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/yourpage"
    
2. Explain to your supporters what you are doing and why. Every one who visits your site will wants to know how they can help; so tell them. Ask for their financial support and be sure to tell them that your website is site secure and that any donations they make will be transferred directly to the charity's bank account and NOT go through a 2nd party.
    
3. Ask for help. When you have built your personal fundraising page and are ready to ask your supporters for help use the template email you will be sent by us, edit it to suit your own needs, and then send it to your entire email address book. Don't forget to ask to your supporters to then email on it their friends and family. The power of the Internet will spread your message far and wide.
    
4. Keep a Blog. Family and friends will love to read about your journey and adventures. Try and keep them coming back to your site regularly to learn about what you are doing and to see your fundraising tally grow. If anything unusual or exciting or amazing happens in your journey to your event, then send out another email, inviting people back to your website.
    
5. Make it personal. Share your story or that of a person you are trying to help. Remember that your supporters are keen to help you and are more inclined to donate if they can relate to your cause. Whether you are raising money for Cystic Fibrosis or the SPCA, share something about your cause and why its important to you.
    
6. Follow up. Just before your big day send a last reminder to your supporters.
    
7. Thank your Supporters. After your event send out an update on how it all went, how much you raised and thank your supporters for their support. After all you may need them again for your next adventure!
    
8. Need Help? Contact us.

Happy fundraising!