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Fundraising Tips
The event is just around the corner, but that doesn't mean that
you can't raise a whole lot of money in a short amount of time.
Be optimistic.
Excitement is highly contagious and it’s important for
potential sponsors to feel how enthusiastic you are about the
event and their sponsorship.
Be committed.
When you raise funds for the MS Society, you are directly helping
people with MS and funding research about this mysterious disease.
Try making the first pledge yourself. When your friends, colleagues
and family members see your name and a contribution, they will
see how serious you are.
Fundraise online. Register online and open
the door to more fundraising resources. You can track your progress,
allow others to pledge you online and send out e-mail announcements.
Add your personal
fundraising link to your e-mail signature line.
Chances are, by adding
a link to your personal fundraising page in your signature line you
will receive some unexpected (and always welcome) donations.
Get matching gifts.
Contact your Human Resources department to find out if your company
has a corporate matching gift program. If they do, secure and
complete a form to turn in with your pledges – it’s
an easy way to double your total. Encourage your sponsors to
ask their companies for matching gift forms; many sponsors
are not aware that this is an option. Often, even if a company
does not have a matching gifts program, they will support your
efforts financially.
Ask anyone and everyone.
Ask family and friends first. Once you've tackled the "easy
ones," branching out is simple. Next, ask clients, co-workers,
clubs, anyone and everyone. One top fundraiser asks everyone
he knows to either join his team or make a pledge. He has a huge
team, but many more people make pledges!
Ask for a specific amount.
Consider keeping a separate pledge sheets for small and large
donors. Tell sponsors what your average pledge has been and
then ask them to beat it!
Ask for donations on pay day.
Timing is very important. When you ask is almost as
important as who you ask.
Educate potential donors.
New donors may not know about MS. Be prepared to educate them
about the disease and how donated funds are put to good use.
You can find out more details at www.mssociety.ca.
Make a list of places where you spend money.
Donations to the MS Society are tax-deductible and we are glad
to provide receipts. Don't forget doctors, dry cleaners, dentists,
mechanics and your favourite restaurants! And, don't forget
all those friends who have asked you to lend them a few bucks!
Send letters.
Send an announcement of your plan to participate to friends,
business associates, company and church, college or high school
newsletters. Ask for their support in writing!
Save your spare change everyday.
You'll be surprised how much you'll save for your own pledge
by the time the event is here!
Ask vendors at your business.
Coffee, paper, delivery service, management company, copier technician,
and everyone who wants to maintain that friendly "business
relationship" are generally more than willing to contribute,
especially since their contribution is tax-deductable.
Stay motivated.
Keep in mind that sponsorships will earn you fabulous prizes
for going above and beyond the minimum donation. More importantly,
you'll feel good knowing that you made a difference in the
life of someone with MS.
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