Support & Fundraising
Careers Contact Us
Español
Refer a Patient

Fundraising games and themes

If you're looking for imaginative ways to raise funds for your favorite cause, like St. Jude, why not organize a fundraising game or plan an event around a fundraising theme? Check out our ideas for games and themes to make your fundraiser even more fun.

See Fundraising Games See Fundraising Themes

 
 
 

Why fundraising games work

Turning your fundraiser into a game can change the whole atmosphere surrounding it and help you build a strong donor network. Some benefits to fundraising games:

  • Boosts excitement: A game can morph your fundraising goal into an interactive challenge that donors can become invested in.
  • Sparks interest: Games can have broad appeal, which might help you introduce your cause to people who aren't aware of it. 
  • Increases participation: Games may encourage people who would normally stay home to get involved, helping you build your donor base.
 
 

7 fundraising game ideas

  1. Classic board games
    Turn your fundraiser into a night of nostalgia by having people play their favorite board games.

  2. Mini golf
    ‘Putt’ your way to your fundraising goal with an action-packed game of mini golf.

  3. Traditional raffles
    People love the chance to win a prize. Turn that enthusiasm into support for a good cause.

  4. Trivia night
    Individually or in teams, participants can show off their knowledge and generosity at the same time.

  5. Bingo
    Themed bingo boards, prizes and good music can bring out the true bingo enthusiasts.

  6. Video game tournaments
    Video games are fun for kids and adults alike, and can be played in person or virtually.

  7. Sports tournaments
    With team spirit and some friendly rivalry, you can meet your fundraising goal while getting in some physical activity.
 
 

How to host successful fundraising games

  • Offer exciting prizes: Appealing prizes may help bring in a wide range of supporters to your cause.

  • Promote on social media: Using social media will help you gather a large, interactive audience, and open up the opportunity for others to share your fundraiser as well.

  • Cater to diverse interests: Plan niche fundraising game events that cater to specific audiences.

  • Be inclusive: Be sure to include fundraising games for adults and children of all ages. 
 
 

Why adding a theme to your fundraiser is beneficial

Much like a game, a fundraising theme can spark interest and draw attention to your event. And the more participants you have, the more likely you are to meet your fundraising goal. Choosing an entertaining theme can help pique interest, encourage attendance and potentially increase donations.

 
 

5 entertaining fundraising theme ideas

As you decide on a theme, consider the common interests of those you're inviting, and make sure your theme is relevant to your cause. If you're looking for inspiration, here are a few ideas:

 

1. Popular cities or locations

Add some domestic or international flair to your fundraiser with a city- or location-themed event. New York, Las Vegas, Paris, London...you can make it a night to remember without leaving your hometown. Or go generic, and choose decorations, cuisine and activities around locations like the beach, a backyard garden or the circus.

2. Decades

Everyone loves a bit of nostalgia now and then. Whether it's the 1920s, 1960s, 1980s or any time before or after, your chosen decade's history, pop culture and music can set the dress code, activities and refreshments. You could even hold a costume contest for the best-dressed attendees.

3. Movies

Put a Hollywood spin on your fundraiser by choosing a popular or classic movie as your theme. Get creative about activities or games based on the movie, and encourage your participants to dress up as their favorite characters. (As a reminder, always consider your audience when choosing a movie. What works for a workplace fundraiser might not be the best fit for, say, a fundraiser at a school.)

4. Seasons

Ring in a new season or celebrate one that ended months ago. Pool parties, harvest festivals, winter galas and spring flings are just a few options. Or you could choose a specific holiday, like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year's. Alternately, mix it up with “Christmas in July” or a beachwear party in January. 

5. Activities

Give your audience a hands-on way to participate in your fundraiser by choosing a sport or activity as your theme. Consider what your attendees enjoy doing, and get creative. You might plan a community softball game, or a video game tournament, cooking contest or anything else that gets people excited and eager to join in.

 
 

You might also be interested in ...

Close
Close