Taking Advantage of Community Resources

An article by CRF Staff.

Ask. If you don't bother to ask, you probably will not receive. Pass the hat at meetings. Put your address on leaflets. If you're passing out leaflets and someone says, "I'd sure like to help you but I don't have the time." You say, "Well, we accept donations."

Keep a budget. Make a list of goods and services you need and separate things you can get donated from things you need to buy.

Set priorities. Make sure your fund-raising efforts are worth the time and energy.

Use your mission statement. People want to know where their money is going. If you have a statement that describes your organization, its goals and strategies, who you are trying to help, and how people's contributions will help you with your work, you can kill two birds--fundraising and spreading the word about your project--with one pitch.

Locating sources for donations: Who can help?

Begin with personal contacts. Who do you know? Would they be willing to make a private donation to your cause? Make a list of individuals you know and develop a plan to approach them.

Ask business association. Groups such as Kiwanis, Rotary International, Lions, and Junior Chamber of Commerce usually take pride in their efforts to serve the community. Some of these groups may be useful in helping out by locating contributors for your fundraising efforts.

Tips on Fundraising Events

Plan ahead. How much money do you need to raise? Look at your budget.

Make the event as fun as possible. Fundraising is hard work. Choose a fundraiser that you will enjoy.

Create a timeline. Set out tasks and deadlines. Allow plenty of time. Nothing spoils the party as quickly as a hectic pace.

Figure out the costs. It may take money to make money, but don't plan a monster event that will not run out of control and eat up all of your earnings--the point is to end up with more than you started!

Weigh advantages and disadvantages of your fundraising options. Which is easiest? Which takes the least amount of time? Which will raise the most money? Which will get your group the most publicity? (Check out Take Action Media Guide for more info on attracting media attention.)

Use your fundraiser to introduce your project to new people. Make sure that curious newcomers can find out what you are doing, why you are doing it, and where you are doing it.

Record the name, address, phone number, and e-mail address (optional) of everyone who gives you money. You will want to thank them, and you may want to ask them for support later.

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