Gobi2.com: Information About Fundraising

Fundraising is an exciting and productive way to raise capital for worthy projects and causes. There are 7 important questions to consider before you begin a fund raiser:

1. What is my cause? There are many worthwhile recipients of fundraising efforts, including charities, community organizations, worthy individuals, schools and PTAs, churches, and hospitals.
2. How much money do I want to raise? If your goal is under $500, a more modest commitment is needed in terms of manpower and time. If however you wish to raise large sums, say over $10,000, you will need to have good organization, proper management and bookkeeping, and a larger number of committed individuals.
3. Am I going solo or in a group? This can have an important impact on the amount of money you raise. But even a single individual, given enough time and effort, can raise substantial amounts of funds. On the other hand, groups are self-reinforcing, and one develops an esprit de corps when working with others on a worthy project.
4. What kinds of information are available to me for my particular cause? There are many "how-to" guides available, both online and in print. Everything from cake sales to card peeler programs are discussed on the Internet and a quick search on your favorite search engine will usually provide you with a wealth of ideas. Raffles and bingo games are covered by many articles that provide the specifics for setting up and executing a winning event.
5. What will be the venue of my fundraiser? There are many to choose from: work, school, college, events, at home, church, a local pub, park grounds, sports centers, community halls, civic centers; the list can go on forever. It is important to ensure that any required permits are secured before a fundraiser is scheduled. If the fundraiser is in the form of an event, the there should always be some sort of security detail, and provision must be made for hunger, thirst and biological needs.
6. What level of effort should I make? There is no rule that a fundraiser has to be a high-octane project. Informality and a laid-back attitude can often be more effective than pressure tactics and hectic behavior. Ask yourself, what kind of event would I like to attend? Your answer should guide your level of effort.
7. Should I register with a fundraising organization? Often the answer is yes, not only because of the potential to receive valuable advice from experienced individuals, but also for the official imprimatur conferred on a fundraiser by a well-respected organization.

There you have it. Answer these questions honestly, then go out and do some good!