Monday, November 10, 2008

Candy Bar Fundraising

candy barAmericans naturally love chocolates. It has been estimated that Americans consume billions of pounds of candy bars every year. No wonder candy bars have been the most popular products for fundraisers.

How are chocolate bars used in fundraising? Fundraisers use candy bars in two ways- indirect and direct selling. You may choose to use both methods to generate more funds and get more contacts.

Direct selling usually involves selling candy bars. Many companies use personalized candy wrappers and coupons to add appeal on their candies. Some use famous candy bar brand names to generate profit. In direct selling, you may do hand selling to members. The members then can distribute and sell the candy bars to other people they know.

On the other hand, indirect selling does not involve hand selling to people. All you need to do is distribute brochures and people who are interested may contact you on the numbers you have provided in the brochures.

If you choose candy bars for fundraising, you can be assured of a 100% to 200% profit. However, it will depend on the cost of the candies. It is better if a company can supply you with candy bars at a cheaper cost. This will surely be a win for you.

Candy bars have long been the favorite of many fundraisers. That is because it isn't limited to a specific age group or culture. Everybody just loves candy bars. Candy bars are also easy to sell. You don't need to be an expert in sales to promote the product.

Fundraisers are also aware of the disadvantages of candy bars in fundraising. It's not a healthy food especially for children and they aren't good in hot weather since they have the tendency to melt in hot temperatures. It is also difficult to track inventories with candy bars.

If you choose candy bars for fundraising, it will surely be a hit for you. Just remember to determine if there are upfront charges on the organization. Also make sure that the organization doesn't charge extra fees for other materials. You may also choose candy bars with features and coupons to increase your sales.

You may check the Internet for companies and organizations that promote candy bars for fundraising. If you can be assured of a 100% profit, then why not try it? Candy bars will surely give fundraisers sweet results.




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Monday, October 13, 2008

Silicone Wristbands

It has been said that fashion helps us make a statement through colors and style we choose to wear. Today, when we think of "pink", images associated with women's cancer research immediately come to mind as a result of the Susan G. Komen organization's efforts to raise awareness through the sale of silicone wristbands. Wearing a pink bracelet symbolizes not only your solidarity with the group's effort, but gives a large branding to the message that helps draw supporters to the message.

Whether you are seeking to raise the profile of groups ranging from military causes who utilize camouflage silicone wristbands in their charity efforts to religious groups who often place scriptural messages embossed on the bands, you can help craft a unique branding message for your organization.

Not only can you utilize wristbands for charity efforts, but the bands can also form part of a core identity around any cause, from family to business groups who wish to structure a core brand. Handing out family bands with a motto at family reunions can provide a memorable gift just a creating company wristbands with either serious or humorous messages can benefit the morale at get together events large and small.

Another great use of rubber wristbands is for athletic teams, especially when coaches are looking to motivate players in the context of a long season. At times, youth sports teams might have a hard time finding motivation amidst the bustle of everyday responsibilities, so having wrist bands as a constantly reminder of their goals can only further team bonding efforts.

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Sunday, September 14, 2008

Silicone Wristband Fundraising for your Organization

silicone bandsEvery organization has a mission statement that reflects the core principles of the group. When Lance Armstrong returned to win the Tour de France, Livestrong Foundation produced wristbands that served both to raise awareness for cancer survivors as well as fundings for his non-profit. Awareness bracelets are an excellent fund raising tool that can help your organization grow and spread its central message.

Gel bracelets reflect your group by printing a message on the band, as well as allowing you to chose a color that reflects your theme. Popular wristbands include the yellow Livestrong band, red and blue for epilepsy awareness bracelet and the pink Susan Komen bracelet. Each of these silicone bands sends a message, and can help raise the public profile of your group. By printing your motto on a rubber bracelet, people will naturally ask your members about its significance, which raises your organization's profile.

In addition to general cause awareness, gel bands are an ideal way to help raise funds for those in immediate need. When Hurricane Katrina landed at New Orleans, groups began selling white and blue bands to show solidarity and raise funds for those displaced by the natural disaster. The bands provide an easy way for showing support for victims, and make clear economic sense for charities looking to raise funds.

The wristbands can be purchased in bulk at a low cost basis, and sold to raise funds for prices as little as $1 a piece. Low cost and popularity make silicone bands an ideal choice for school fund raisers, religious campaigns and medical causes. With a suggested donation price, individuals are free to donate more, while others can contribute the low purchase price. Just as Livestrong became a national cause started in cycling, your group can begin to sell custom bracelets for your local group and aim to raise awareness for your cause.

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Thursday, August 21, 2008

The Key to Victorious Political Fundraising Activity

Every movement needs money to support whatever the campaign is going to need. In order to achieve success, the money should be well monitored and the candidate himself should spend enough time to prepare and implement a fund raising plan.

Here are some guide lines to a winning political fundraising:

-First of all before a candidate announces his standing he should understand his goals and objectives; and stick with them. Also, he should come up with a plan on how they will raise the money, how much is desired, when will it be needed and what the money is required for.

-The fundraising should start as soon as the candidacy is declared. Better to waste no time. This would also test how effective the plan is.

-Decide how you will correspond with your probable and existing donors. Give off efficient and dependable messages to accomplish your theoretical and monetary goals.

-Estimate how much a donor can contribute. You could ask for a little higher amount so that if he bids lower, you can meet somewhere in the middle.

-When it comes to big time donors, the candidate should be the one making the calls to them. This is to give a personal touch. Such donors are more likely to give a greater amount when the candidate himself calls.

-Set the best date for the event. On a Friday, people may be too tired because of the week-long job and Sunday is the time when people go to churches and spend time off with their families. Saturday is still the most advisable day for any event.

-There should be options for the donors. You could have an extra large, a large, a medium, a small and even an extra small. This is just to cater as much donors as you can.

-Create your network. You could ask relatives, friends and supporters to donate contact numbers of their acquaintances as well. Therefore, create a network of fundraising. Keep in mind that the bigger the network, the bigger the possibility to raise the desired amount.

-Keep the contributors well informed and make follow ups. Call them from time to time during the campaign period. It can be before the election, during and near the time of election. Who knows, they might even make another donation.

Always follow rules and regulation in the desired state. Most of the time there are different rules on fundraising as who can give contributions and how much they can donate. Submit all reports and requirement needed.

So waste no time and plan your campaign ahead.

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Wednesday, July 23, 2008

School Fundraising Ideas

school fundraisingA school fundraising activity is always a great idea to help your school raise the money that it needs with the help and participation of the whole community.

It is also an excellent way for students to understand the value of money and to learn that hard work pays off.

With so many fundraisers happening all around, what would differentiate your fundraiser and make it stand out from the rest? What would make people choose to support your cause? What fundraising activities will be mutually beneficial to both your school and to those prospective financial supporters? These are some important questions that you need to ask yourself before actually deciding on what fundraising activity to have. Once you have answered them, you can then move on to deciding what type of fundraiser will most likely work for your school. To help you with that, here are some school fundraising activities you can choose from.

One of the latest and most innovative school fundraising activities nowadays is Scrips. It is the use of paper as a substitute for money. This concept has actually been around for ages but it has only been utilized for fundraisers just recently. What happens is that during a fundraiser, the school would sell Scrips that they bought at a discount. For example, they would sell a $50-worth Scrip for the local grocer that they only bought for $45 to a community member. The local grocer is promoted, the fundraiser makes money, and the supporter purchases something that he can actually use.

A similar concept to Scrips is a fundraising concept referred to as “Schoolpop.” A supporter simply has to shop at participating online stores to make money for your school. Every time they make a purchase online, a certain percentage of the total cost will be rebated back to the school.

One fundraising idea that would surely encourage community participation is a community business bazaar. Invite parents and other community members to feature their businesses in a school bazaar. This will allow them to promote their products and services to the entire community. The participants will be assigned to their own booths and the school can charge a rental fee for each booth. Furthermore, they can charge entrance fees for those who want to check out the local community wares.

Auctioning services or talents of students or local community members is another brilliant way to raise funds for your school. Come up with a list of participants and the corresponding talents that they have or services that they would render and organize an auction night. For example, a student can donate a six-hour babysitting service to the school for free. The school will auction this service off to the highest bidder and will earn the cost of the bid.

Lastly, you can always choose the safe route and go with some tried and tested fundraising ideas. These include bake sales, garage sales, community car washes, ticket raffles, movie premieres or special screenings, talent shows, quiz bees and the like.

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Thursday, July 17, 2008

Innovative Ideas for Church Fundraisers

Most churches rely solely on donations given by their members during mass for financial support. The money that the church collects is used to cover its general expenses and regular upkeep. More often than not, the amount is simply not enough to maintain its existence and operation, such that other sources of funds are sometimes necessary. This is where church fundraisers come into the picture and church fundraising can be a very rewarding task.

Church fundraisers are an excellent way to help the church raise the money that it needs to keep up with the growing costs of running such an institution. It is also a great way to encourage its members to become more involved in its activities and more supportive of its goals. However, in order to get people’s attention, the fundraising concept must be something innovative and exciting, and appeals to the human senses. Below are some themes and ideas that can help you get started with your church fundraising campaign.

A church choir concert would be a great way to raise funds for your church. The church can earn from ticket sales, as well as from sponsorships. Not only will they be able to earn extra income for this, but they will also help promote the local talents of the church and the community. The audience, on the other hand, will be able to socialize with other church members and will have a night of fun and entertainment.

Raffle off an item or a service. Get one of your church members to donate a valuable item or service and hold a raffle draw for it. An example of an item would be a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary and an example of a service would be ballroom dancing lessons. The church will earn from the sales of the raffle tickets bought by those who wish to be part of the contest.

A church auction is another unique way to help raise extra funds for your church. Like the church raffle concept, simply ask church members to donate or contribute items and services to the church. Instead of raffling these items off, organize an auction night and sell the donated items and services to the highest bidder. The proceeds of the auction will be collected by the church and will be used for necessary expenditures.

Lastly, write letters to church members who have businesses within the community. Ask them to rebate a small amount or percentage every time someone buys something from their store. For example, ask a church member who owns a candy shop if it is possible to contribute $1 for every $20 purchase that is made in his store. Let the patrons of the store know that a part of the money that they spend there would be donated to the church. Not only will the business be promoted to the local community, but at the same time, people will be encouraged to buy from it because they know that part of the money that they spend will be put to good use.

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Wednesday, July 2, 2008

School Fundraising Idea - "Secret Admirer Notes"

My school did these little "secret admirer notes" one time. We had some really cute little cards that you could buy for like a dollar. Then you wrote whatever you wanted to say, and put who it was for, and what homeroom they were in. Then you turned it into the little secret admirer box, or whatever, and whenever the delivery day was, the notes were delivered to the classes. Girls would surely love the idea as they like to pursue guys with cards, love letters, flowers and write poems. Its really effective.

Here is an example:

There is a special something about you...
Something...that draws me to you
and makes me want to get to know you better.
Something...that stirs-up my emotions
every time I see you;
every time I hear or speak your name
I really don't understand why I feel this way,
or, what this is all about;
I only know that my heart tells me
—with each and every pounding beat—
that there is something special about you. ^_^

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Monday, June 16, 2008

Custom T Shirts - A Great Fundraising Idea

i have never been to new york
Custom t-shirts means t-shirts you design on your own. It can be personalized by getting your personal message printed on it. You can put it on your short sleeves, long sleeves, tank tops, sleeveless or on any garment that you can print a message. Personalized t-shirts gives uniqueness - a taste of your own.

They can even be used to raise funds for any organization or club. Its one of the best and a clever fundraising item. Even promotion of your products can be done through custom t-shirts. Many individuals have different tastes and selections. Many of them don't prefer to go for custom t-shirts. They go for simple personalized shirts.

Customizing or designing a t-shirt is an art in itself, which many possess. Just express yourself by printing your thoughts or ideas in it. The sweatshirts have got very famous designs in the line of custom t-shirts. If you go for high quality custom t-shirts, you can go in for a cotton cloth one. Nowadays many use 50% cotton and 50% polyester for making custom t-shirts. This blend is very cheap and long lasting too. So you don't have to worry about wear and tear much, as it's very durable.

This blend of t-shirts come very cheap and you can even print your own photo in the front of your t-shirt or you can go for anybody else's photo too, like if you are a girl, your boyfriend's or if you are a guy your girlfriend's etc etc. If you want you can also print at the back of the customized t-shirt. So in short designing your own personalized t-shirt is an art in itself and an interesting process. Once you get hooked onto it, you'll never give this up for life. You can even turn it into a business. Isn't that fun. A business you enjoy and love.

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Monday, May 5, 2008

The Two Most Magic Words Of Fundraising -- Thank You

The most often overlooked aspect of fundraising is conveying the simple "thank you" to donors. Too many times volunteers and staff of organizations complain about not being able to keep a large percentage of their donor base. It's like leaves blowing in the wind. Some will come your way and just as quickly disappear never to come back your way again.

Once you acknowledge this, you must find some way of keeping your supporters as they come your way. The simplest way is with "thank you's". Believe it or not, the more you thank your supporters, the more you will involve them. Giving them the sense of really belonging to what your group is trying to accomplish.

Is one time enough? How about four to seven times expressing your appreciation? If you chose four times, then you are on your way to involving your donors and purveying a since of sincere thanks.

Your first "thank you" should be the acknowledgment of their gift. A simple form with the amount of their donation that they can use for tax purposes (Include a return envelope).

Second, is to send a newsletter about your organization with a small note thanking the donor again (Include a return envelope). This will allow them to follow what your group is doing.

Third, send a small token of your appreciation for their gift with a short note (Include a return envelope). A T-shirt from your group, coffee cup with your groups logo, a unique looking fountain pen, or another item that will continually remind them about your group as they use these items. All will cost around $4.00 or less and will provide a large return for what you invested. See 4imprint.com, LogoLab.com for examples.

Fourth, send a brief survey asking for their input when you put on your function or campaign. Let them know that you value their opinion. Include a small thank you note or brief letter. Be sure to ask meaningful questions like: 1. Did you enjoy your experience at our function, 2. Are there areas that we can improve upon, 3. Can you refer others that would welcome the opportunity to be involved also (have space so they can place a name, phone number, and address), 4. What is the best time of the year to hold this event, 5. Would you consider becoming a volunteer at our next event (include committee positions with a small box where they can check off). Be careful not to make it too long. Include a pre-stamped return envelope or you will most likely not get the survey back.

Fifth, Send a letter from the President of your group thanking them for their support. Put the note on the letterhead of the business or company where they work. If a photograph was taken with a dignitary at the event or of the donor with spouse or colleague, send this along. Include a return envelope.

Sixth, send a letter on your group's letterhead from the Executive Director of your group thanking them for their support. Include a return envelope.

Seventh, send a note from someone that has been helped by their donation. This may be a child if you are a youth organization or a homeless person if you are a shelter, or someone touched by what you do. Be sure to include a return envelope. You get the picture.

With the advent of computers, it is possible to keep track of what was given by each donor in the past, how much they gave, and when you thanked them. Track their involvement over the course of the year and you will see an improvement in the number of supporters that will join you next time around.

When used often, those simple words "thank you", will definitely increase your donations, gifts and goodwill toward your group. So start thanking your supporters as many times as you can think of. - ProfitQuests.com.

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Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Raising Funds through a Fun Run

fun runEvery year, non-government and civic organizations find ways to raise funds for a variety of projects. Some of these proceeds go to help the poor while others are used to teach children and adults that much needed education to get decent jobs.

One of the most grueling marathons which are used to raise funds for Alzheimer’s patients is the Marathon des Sables which is done in about 6 days over 151 miles of terrain. The competitors have to carry equipment such as food, water and sleeping gear to be able to survive the heat of the day and the cold of night.

You don't have to organize something big like this to get noticed. There are certain things that need attention in the city or in schools and employing the proper techniques will surely make it successful.

When you have decided on the charity, the next thing that has to be forecasted is how many people will be needed to volunteer for the project.

The success of the run will really depend on marketing. The date of the event has to be finalized including the route which the racers will pass through from start to finish.

When that has been made, people should begin seeking sponsors. There are many corporations that will be more than happy to help. People should sell the idea to the firms who will in turn get something back like good publicity.

The money given will be used to put ads in the paper and the radio, flyers to be distributed to people who want to join, prizes for the top three finishers and souvenir items such as a free breakfast or a shirt to all those who finish the race.

Someone will be tasked to follow up with the sponsorships and the printing of the ads. The person should make sure that the company logos of the sponsors are correct when they come from the printers.

You will also need to tap into the community. You can ask some of the restaurants and explain the project. They may not give that much money but perhaps a small percentage of the sales could be given for every 10 runners who wish to join the event.

This may not count much but a little money from generous people will still go a long way since this is just part of the fund raising that is being done.

One way of making the fun run successful will also be to tap celebrities. They don't have to be an actress or a rock star but someone who people look up to and will be more than willing to help out in the cause.

Participants and viewers who will see the event on television will surely appreciate the effort done by the individual. The celebrity may not get that much money for the event except the gratitude of those who need the money badly.

Another person should coordinate with the police and the local authorities. These people will make sure the route is secure with the assistance of other volunteers who will act as marshals guiding people through the course.

You should make sure everything is ready to the last detail hours before the run until everyone has finished. An assessment can be made on the performance of the group including how much was made before anyone can say that this project was successful.

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Monday, March 31, 2008

Fundraising Activities For Kids That Will Surely Provide Fun And Profits

fundraising kidsFund raising events for kids are fun to organize and raising money is just a bonus!

Guidelines to kids fund raising event success:

1. Publicity. This is the most important part of your event. Announce the event in newspapers, radio stations, flyers, posters, etc. Make sure that you create a clear message that includes who and what the event is for, when and where will it be held, ticket prices, your cause and how much money you need to raise.

2. Get eager and competent volunteers. Be sure that your volunteers are committed to your fundraising event. You need to orient them on how your event works, what your goals are and your anticipated results.

3. Choose a popular location. You need to hold the event some place that is familiar to everyone as a known address will increase your attendance. The location should be able to accommodate large crowds.

Fund raising event for kids tips and ideas:

Walk-a-thon, dance marathon, martial arts tournament or a bike race. This is fun for parents and kids. You can make it interesting by requiring “parent-child” pairs only to participate. You can collect monetary pledges every hour and sell refreshments.

Beach party. You can rent a pool and design it to look like a beach. Offer booths that kids can rent where they can sell refreshments and snacks. Put up water games. Sell tickets that include entrance and water game participation.

Tea party raffle. Ask for donations from toy stores, small gift items and major expensive toys. Create a tea party environment. Ask volunteers (eager kids from schools) to perform dances, songs, etc. Sell raffle tickets and charge entrance fee per child and sell snacks.

Ice-cream party. Sell tickets where kids can have “eat all you can” ice-cream treat! Set a long table with lots of different ice-cream toppings, such as sprinkles, different fruits, different syrups, etc. Kids will enjoy creating their own ice-cream.

Pizza fun party. Create a “make your own pizza” fund raiser party. Set up different pizza toppings on a buffet table where parents and kids can put on the toppings they choose, and then have their pizza baked. Sell tickets for every plate of pizza. Also charge entrance fees. For entertainment, ask kid volunteers to show-off their talents on stage.

By creating a fun, interesting and short event period, you make your fund raising kids party more appealing to potential customers and supporters.

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Tuesday, March 25, 2008

How to Make a Fund Raising Mission Trip

hurricaneFund raising is an exciting event. This works well for the person who successfully doing it and also benefits those who are the recipients of the cause. One way of doing this would be to organize a fund raising mission trip.

Some people have decided to run from the east to the west coast. The cause could be to raise money for food and other supplies or to provide housing to the many that were homeless after hurricane Katrina.

There may be some who would like to join in months before the event, posters can be set up explaining everything in detail.

You should also write fundraising letters to friends and family members about the event. These people will in turn forward this to other people if they want it sent via email. A study found that you can raise about $2500 just from letters.

You should make sure that a letter of thanks is given to those who give money of the cause.

Some people may not care but this will gain more momentum and if there was blessing from the church. Strong believers will be more than generous to give money for the cause.

You should also persuade that the parishioners be given the chance to speak during meetings and congregations so people who have questions about this event can be answered.

Stories about the event should get as much coverage as possible. You can do this by having an article printed in newspapers and newsletters that are distributed around the community.

Aside from the church and the help of friends and relatives, you can also organize smaller events such as a garage sales, a cookout or partner with some establishments who will give a certain percentage if the run across the country and back is successful.

You as well as volunteers should work day and night until the event has been completed. This could be following up with companies that have decided to sponsor the event and keeping the news alive by announcing this often to the public.

Everyone who helped out will feel good when the event becomes successful. It can be done again in the future with more participants the next time around. This is truly the challenge when no one has done it before which could also lead to similar events in other states.

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Friday, March 14, 2008

3 Great Tips on How to Make a Fund Raising Event Successful

Success often comes like a thief in the night. It is never expected, but is very well planned.

This goes the same for every activity that requires well organized planning in order to reach success. So to speak, nothing beats a well-planned activity or event.

Take for example fund raising activities. Before organizations can carry out their goals, they must first properly plan each fund raising event that they want to execute. A well-planned fund raising event can definitely reap victory.

However, as easy as it may sound, achieving success in a fund raising activity is not an easy job. It takes a lot of courage, determination, perseverance, and brainstorming before an organization can reach their goals.

For this reason, it is extremely important that every fundraiser should delve more on the factors that will generate success. Here are some of the factors that you need to consider:

1. Have a definite goal

Raising money to help street children isn't a goal. It should be more concrete, more specific. In order to be successful in your group’s fund raising event, your group’s goals must be more defined and classified.

For instance, if you want to raise funds for your group’s operations regarding street children, it would be better if you limit your intentions for raising some funds for street children in a specific area. In this way, you can research more on it; therefore, you will know where to focus your fundraising ideas and your group can clearly state how much money you need to raise.

2. Choose the best type of fund raising

Soliciting money and donations aren't necessarily limited to mere asking for money. In order for your fund raising event to be successful, choose a specific type of activity. This will correspond to the goal that you have. For instance, if you need a big amount of money, you should choose fund raising activities that will cleave to “large-scale” events such as charity walks or “casino night.”

3. Put some glamour in your fund raising event

In order to secure your fundraising event’s success, it would be wise to add some glamour to it. You may invite some prominent people to be your guest speakers during the opening ceremony. It has always been a well-known fact that celebrities and other prominent people can really make great impacts at any event.

Given all that, organizing a fund raising event is sure to reap success. Just keep in mind that everything will fall into place if you have the right plan.

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Thursday, March 6, 2008

Tips on Writing Fundraising Letters for Successful Fundraising Campaigns

What could be the key to a successful fundraising campaign? That would be being able to write a very good and effective fundraising letter. Fundraising letters aren't just letters. They are letters that have the attributes of sales letters.

You know that a fundraising letter was effective if it was able to catch the attention of your readers and was able to convince them to give help at the very moment they read the letter. Would you like to write effective fundraising letters? Check out the following tips.

1. When starting your fundraising letter, determine first the type of people who will be reading your letter. You need to be specific with your readers. This will help you identify the kind of approach that you will do for the letter.

2. Time is valuable to many people. They sometimes don't have time to read long fundraising letters. You need to make sure that the letter is short so that the readers will be able to remember everything that has been written in the letter.

3. When writing a fundraising letter. You need to be as personal as possible. However, make sure that the letter also sounds professional so that readers will be convinced of the intentions of the campaign.

4. You may start the letter with some good news. You may include updates about the organization, recent accomplishments and future projects. This is also your chance to address all your plans for the organization and how you plan to achieve those goals.

5. And then, you can include the reason why you started the fundraising campaign. You need to inform your readers about what you want to improve, why you want to do the project, how you will do it and the results they can expect from it.

6. You may also include the suggested amount that will help in the campaign. This will help them decide how much they can give for the fundraising campaign.

7. Don't forget to thank your donors. Thanking your readers will give them the motivation to give more for the campaign.

Make sure to include all the listed tips to help you create a convincing fundraising letter. Creating a very good fundraising letter will surely give overwhelming results. Once you are able to create an effective fundraising letter, you can be assured of a successful campaign, donors and donations.

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Thursday, February 28, 2008

Before You Start that Raise, Consider This — Pros and Cons of Fund Raising

Fund raising can be one great experience, especially for non-profit organizations that don't have enough money to support their charitable operations.

For this reason, many people tend to think that fund raising is an all out solution to money problems, especially where solid capital and viable means of income-generating strategies are scarce.

However, it doesn't necessarily follow that fund raising is the ultimate solution to funding problems. Like any activity, it has its own drawbacks.

Knowing its pros and cons will help you in understanding the nature and concept of fund raising. In this way, you will be able to take measures whenever imminent problem arises caused by the underlying weaknesses of fund raising.

Pros

1. Build bridges, not burn them


One of the greatest advantages that fund raising can give is that it can build bridges among alumni, colleagues, etc. Instead of burning them after these people have their own lives, fund raising can even bring them closer again and continue to uphold the principle that they once have in their hearts and minds.

For instance, school fund raising can always call out the members of the alumni and let them help in the fund raising activity that the school will initiate. With this, communication with other people is strengthened while generating funds for your organization.

2. It is all about helping


Another good thing about fund raising is that everything is centered on helping. If you think that you simply can't do the project alone, there are many ways to ask for some help. Volunteers are available all over the area. Even some groups can guide you in your fund raising activity.

Cons

1. It is vulnerable to scam and other unscrupulous activities

Fund raising can be home to generous people, and yet, it can be one way for deceitful activities. Since most people are usually willing to help, some unscrupulous people take advantage of this area and start soliciting money and donations. The problem is that they aren't working for charity but for wickedness.

2. Too much proliferation


Since everybody can do a fund raising activity, the proliferations of fundraisers are just too much that the donors or sponsors can no longer bear.

Indeed, fund raising may have its benefits, but there is always the other side of the coin. It is best to know its pros and cons before considering an organization to donate with or before your organization even start building your own fund raising event.

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Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Sports and Fund Raising: Mix and Match for Success

When considering some fundraising ideas, sports activities have always been the primary and most common concept. This is because almost everybody has their own sport and everybody usually enjoys anything that concerns sports.

However, it doesn't necessarily mean that using sports, as the most common fundraising concept would render organizations easy ways to generate money. Keep in mind that in order to succeed in certain endeavors such as fundraising, there are factors that must be considered in order to guarantee the program’s success.

Here are some tips when you need to team up sports and fund raising into one useful activity:

1. Know your goal

The only major goal in a fund raising activity is to raise money. It would be better to clearly set the amount of money that you need to raise from your fund raising activity. In this way, you can think of a particular sport that will give you the best results.

2. Make a concrete plan

Organizing a fund raising activity that will focus on sports will require a concrete plan. This will entail the estimated number of people needed to facilitate the operation of the fundraising activity. The schedule should be fixed and properly set.

For instance, if you are thinking of organizing a swimming competition to raise some funds for your outreach program, you may need to start with the announcements, promotions, and finally, with the execution of the activity. Since it will be a swimming competition, your organization should find a suitable location for it.

3. Render enough time

Fundraising doesn't start and end with a snap. There must be an allocated time and space for everything, from the brainstorming down to the last details of the activity. It will need the right amount of time in order to carry out the tasks in the right manner.

Keep in mind that generating money is never easy. The amount of money that you have to generate will determine the time that should be allotted for the activity.

4. Choose the best sport

Successful sports fund raising activities evolve into good sports. This means that in order to guarantee your campaign’s success, it would be better to choose the sport that will best work for fund raising activity.

Given all that, your organization will be able to raise the funds that it needs in no time. Just keep in mind that everything will fall appropriately into place once you have organized everything and planned out what your group really wants to achieve.

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Friday, February 22, 2008

Girl Scout Fund Raising Guidelines Every Girl Scout Should Know

Girl scouts have always been responsible in whatever undertaking they may take. They have been highly acclaimed as one of the most useful organizations in the society.

Among the many activities of Girl Scout clubs and organizations are their charitable works. And since this organization doesn't have specific funds to support their operations, they have to opt for fund raising.

In reality, girl scouts are never allowed to ask for money or donations as long as they are members of Girl Scouts. Solicitation of money and asking for donations of any kind is a part of the club’s fund raising activities. They are all based on legal antecedents.

Moreover, girls scout fund raising isn't directly done by the girls themselves. According to the provisions and policies stated in the Girl Scout law, adults are the only ones allowed to manage the fund raising activities.

However, this doesn't necessarily mean that girl scouts can no longer participate in fund raising. Besides, they are the ones who will benefit from the Girl Scout fund raising activities. They will need the funds to support their club’s substantial operations.

So for the Girl Scout organizations that wishes to raise funds and don't know what to do or how to start, here are some tips that can help you out:

1. Know your goal

Before starting out and brainstorming on some possible fund raising ideas, it is important that your group has solidly decided on the amount of money that your group has to raise. This will facilitate the fund raising activity.

Moreover, decide on your group’s purpose in raising funds. Keep in mind that every Girl Scout should never attempt to raise funds for individual purposes.

2. Work personally with the adults
As the provisions stated in the “Money-earning Guidelines” of the organization, only the adults are allowed to raise funds for the organization. However, members are allowed to participate in girl scout fund raising activities as long as there is an adult present at the event so as to help and guide them.

3. Never create fund raising activity for other groups

It isn't appropriate for every girl scout member to raise funds for the sake of a different organization. If your group would really like to extend help, you can opt for donations from your own funds.

Indeed, girl scout fund raising activities can be real fun. It doesn't just provide girls scouts viable means to raise their own funds, but it can also teach them the values of resourcefulness, cooperation, and responsibility.

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Friday, February 15, 2008

Sweet Charity: How to Raise Funds for a Good Cause

It’s a common problem amongst all of us who want to help out: we have all the time, all the will, and all the drive – but we don’t have the money. Whether it’s a bid to build low cost houses for the urban poor, or a day at the fair for less privileged children, all good causes need money. All good causes require you to raise funds, but how can you do it?

Raising funds nowadays is growing to be especially difficult, and it’s not because we have fewer problems in society. There are more poor, uneducated people; more endangered species and polluted natural resources; and more buildings and equipment in need of dire repair. There is, however, less money to go around, and your job will be to convince people that their hard-earned cash can find a better place in making someone else happy.

Not that we’re all selfish, but you do need to prod a few hearts before you can get the cash you need. Here are a few pointers to consider:

Everyone loves an incentive – Sure, we should give without expecting anything in return, but that’s us, the volunteers. What about the funding agency?

It’s a classic case of the Golden Rule: He who has the gold makes the rules. Play on that by giving the gold holder a chance to get prizes. Hold a cake raffle and sell tickets at high prices. Offer to put up the donor’s advertising posters during the big event. Promise to mention the donor’s name a thousand times.

Make the incentive inviting and profitable. Remember, this should be a win-win situation.

Use Technology Wisely – Yesterday’s posters and flyers will cut down more trees today. Besides, many funding agencies and potential donors don’t have time to read things on paper. Get in touch with them through email. Design a website for your fund raising event. This way, people will get excited about and hear about it even before it happens.

If you have time and resources, make a website for your good cause as well. This will attract more potential donors – and it will show that you do mean business

Brainstorm on Feasibility – Ten heads will be better than one of yours, so get your colleagues and some outsiders together and brainstorm. Remember: brainstorming is about getting all the ideas out and choosing the best ones later. Don’t block any idea just because it seems too small time, or too expensive.

Whether it’s for the environment or for people, good luck on your fund raising event! The world needs more kind hearts like yours.

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Monday, February 4, 2008

Fund Raising Cookie Dough That Will Certainly Give You Good Income

Fund raising cookie dough is a famous school fundraising program. Generally it involves selling boxes or large tubes of cookie dough that can be frozen for future use. The organization normally pre-buys a specific number of boxes or takes advance orders then sells the dough to friends, relatives, parents and the public.

Cookie doughs are sold using order forms provided by your fundraising supplier. The frozen dough is normally packed in containers there are several different varieties.

Your sales team will show the brochures to your customers, take down their orders then collect payment upfront. Then, the specified day, the orders are colleted from all your sales people then submitted together with your payment for your cookie dough supplier. Your order will arrive within a few weeks and will be ready to be delivered to your customers.

Potential Income

Fund raising cookie dough typically requires little or no “out of pocket” expenses and often you are able to keep the profit right away.

You can achieve between 30-55 percent profits from your cookie dough sales. Cookie dough dealers recommend that you have at least 30-50 dough sellers for your program to be successful.

Here are other things that will influence your profit; ask about:

• Order forms and brochure costs

• “Money collection envelopes” costs

• Cost of computerized sales

• Distribution sheets costs

Advantages:

• They are highly consumable, permitting repeat fundraisers.

• Require no “upfront” capital.

• They are very popular baking treats.

• Profits are immediately kept.

Disadvantages:

• Requires that it should be kept frozen until they are delivered.

• There can be complicated restrictions on delivery.

Tips for successful sales:

1. Set sales objectives; each person should have a quota.

2. Set your beginning and ending date. Stick to it.

3. Allow sufficient lead to organize and plan your sale.

4. Be aware of competition. Never sell similar products as, and at the same time as your competition.

5. Promote. Advertise in your local newspaper, distribute flyers.

6. Orient your sales team. Inform them what the fund raising is for as well as how much money is needed. Before they go out and sell, let them practice and they need to be well acquainted with the product that they are selling.

Above all, “plan your work and work your plan”; a saying that works every time.

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Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Tips on Writing Fundraising Letters for Successful Fundraising Campaigns

What could be the key to a successful fundraising campaign? That would be being able to write a very good and effective fundraising letter. Fundraising letters aren't just letters. They are letters that have the attributes of sales letters.

You know that a fundraising letter was effective if it was able to catch the attention of your readers and was able to convince them to give help at the very moment they read the letter. Would you like to write effective fundraising letters? Check out the following tips.

1. When starting your fundraising letter, determine first the type of people who will be reading your letter. You need to be specific with your readers. This will help you identify the kind of approach that you will do for the letter.

2. Time is valuable to many people. They sometimes don't have time to read long fundraising letters. You need to make sure that the letter is short so that the readers will be able to remember everything that has been written in the letter.

3. When writing a fundraising letter. You need to be as personal as possible. However, make sure that the letter also sounds professional so that readers will be convinced of the intentions of the campaign.

4. You may start the letter with some good news. You may include updates about the organization, recent accomplishments and future projects. This is also your chance to address all your plans for the organization and how you plan to achieve those goals.

5. And then, you can include the reason why you started the fundraising campaign. You need to inform your readers about what you want to improve, why you want to do the project, how you will do it and the results they can expect from it.

6. You may also include the suggested amount that will help in the campaign. This will help them decide how much they can give for the fundraising campaign.

7. Don't forget to thank your donors. Thanking your readers will give them the motivation to give more for the campaign.

Make sure to include all the listed tips to help you create a convincing fundraising letter. Creating a very good fundraising letter will surely give overwhelming results. Once you are able to create an effective fundraising letter, you can be assured of a successful campaign, donors and donations.

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