Easy Fundraising Ideas to Build Excitement about Your Fundraiser

What are some of the best tips we've heard to make your easy fundraising ideas really pop?

We hear and read about many fund raisers every day - some terrific ideas, and some not so great. How can your group make your fundraiser your best ever? One of the main factors we have noticed that separates the well-executed fundraiser from the flop is the buzz built when you fund raise. The excitement and buzz that you create both within your group and your community about your group's fundraiser, will take even the most simple fundraising ideas to the next level.

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We are always interested in dissecting why some groups aren't as successful with their fundraisers. It always comes down to one fundamental reason - the group didn't do it. If a group isn't raising funds using easy fundraising ideas like Spinners fundraiser, raffles, discount cards, candle sales, carnivals, Scratch card fundraising and others - it is most likely because the group didn't put forth their best effort and didn't create buzz about the fundraiser. If the group leader isn't jazzed about the it, the members of the group won't be excited about what you are doing and this drives members to not do the fundraiser. If people don't participate in the fundraiser, your group doesn't raise funds and all of the easy fundraising ideas in the world can't save it.

How can you generate buzz and build enthusiasm about your fundraiser so that your group is among those that succeeds?

1. Make sure your group members and your community knows WHY you are fundraising. This may seem obvious but groups sometimes neglect to do this.

2. Promote and hype your fundraiser! Even the easiest fundraisers won't be successful if you don't do them. Write short press releases for your local newspaper. They are always on the lookout for stories. Create flyers to post or hand out depending on the type of fundraiser you are running. Draft emails that your members can send out to their friends and family to get them enthused about your fundraiser. Publicize as if it a can't-miss event. Use Facebook and twitter and other social marketing venues to share what you are doing. Let people know who, what, when, where, why and most importantly, how they can get involved to help donate to your group.

3. Keep your members motivated, and feeling responsible for bringing in contributions. Have your members commit to a selling a given amount of product or raising a designated amount. Keep them jazzed as a group by following progress - a terrific way to do this is with a free fundraising thermometer. You can set up a simple Facebook page for your fundraiser so members can see how close you are to your goal. A friendly contest with a prize for the top earner is another idea to inspire competition and better results. Follow up with your group members during the fundraiser and encourage them to continue to get donations.

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When you have successfully completed your fundraiser, make sure to thank your donors promptly for their involvement. Make them feel like part of something great for supporting your group. Thank you notes, thank you calls, and baked goods are all fun and easy ways to show your donors that you appreciate them sharing the excitement of your fundraiser and their dollars with your group.