Running your first fundraiser can be very intimidating once you jump in and make the commitment. With all the responsibility falling on your shoulders, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. There are details to keep track of to ensure you run a successful fundraiser. While some fundraisers and charity events differ from one another, there are a few best practices all should follow.

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TIPS FOR RUNNING YOUR FIRST FUNDRAISER
by Team Reed Foundation | May 25, 2021 | Blog, Charity, Team Reed Foundation
Running your rst fundraiser can be very intimidating once you jump in and make the commitment.
With all the responsibility falling on your shoulders, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. There are
details to keep track of to ensure you run a successful fundraiser. While some fundraisers and
charity events differ from one another, there are a few best practices all should follow.
Trial Run a Soft Launch
A soft launch is a campaign within your campaign and a great way to iron out details to give you
an idea of how the main event will go. Gather a small group of your most dedicated supporters to
get the momentum going before launching the of cial fundraiser to the public. A soft launch can
help raise money before the big launch to gain more traction. When running a fundraiser, it’s
important to note that people are more likely to give when the campaign already has some money
raise. Use the soft launch to also gain feedback from your supporters, ask if anything should be
changed, ensure the message was clear, and that the big launch is ready to go.
Have a Clear and Strong Brand
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When it comes to fundraising, branding is everything. Having a strong brand builds trust with your
supporters and will clearly show that this fundraiser is indeed yours. When running a new
fundraiser, many make the mistake of not clearly stating which nonpro t is running the new
campaign. To ensure your brand is front and center, always that your brand, logo, and colors are
the same as your new fundraising campaign. This essential when launching your new campaign
through email, social media, or direct mail.
Have a Matching Period
Nothing encourages more donation than a matching period. A matching period is when a speci c
donor, sponsor, company, or organization vows to match the donations of others during a period of
time or for a certain event, essentially doubling the donations made. This a great way to spark
excitement within the campaign and encourage more donors to give. Having matching gifts is also
a great way to encourage donors to give now rather than waiting until later. A matching period is
great to launch mid-campaign.
Don’t Forget to Celebrate
Throughout the fundraiser, it’s easy to get caught up in meeting or exceeding goals and thinking of
new ways to do more. However, it’s essential to celebrate your achieved milestones and success
along the way. Celebrating small or large victories along the way can encourage and inspire more
people to give because donors like to see when a campaign is successful. Also, remember to
celebrate internally as well. Your staff members and volunteers worked hard to ensure a successful
fundraiser so be sure to thank them and show how all their hard work paid off.
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