1. Choose a clear and attainable fundraising goal
Your first step in planning a fundraiser is to set a goal. Knowing how much money you'd like to raise for your cause can help shape your event, determine your audience and define what success looks like. Make sure the amount you choose feels attainable.
2. Set a realistic fundraising event budget
Once you’ve chosen your fundraising goal, the next step is to determine how much you’d like to spend on your event. Consider everything that will go into your fundraiser, from staffing and entertainment to food and drinks to decorations and venue fees. Then estimate how much you’ll need to spend.
Measure these costs against your fundraising goal. This can help keep your spending in check so the maximum amount goes toward your chosen cause.
3. Pick a fundraising theme your audience will love
A theme for your fundraising event can help attract more participants and create a memorable experience.
Choose a theme that resonates with your target audience. For example, a dance marathon might work best if you’re targeting high school or college students, while a fundraising run might be a better idea for a fitness community.
4. Find a great location
One of the most important parts of a successful fundraiser is choosing the right location. As you search for your ideal event venue, consider your budget, your audience, your theme and accessibility. You’ll want to find a space that’s large enough for and appealing to your attendees. You'll also want a place that goes with your fundraising theme and is accessible to all guests.
5. Gather sponsors and volunteers
Sponsors and volunteers are important to the success of many charity events. Meet with local businesses and organizations that may be interested in contributing to your fundraiser. Sponsors can help cover the costs of the event, provide food and drinks, offer prizes and more.
You may also need a team of volunteers to help run your event. Use the resources at your disposal, like email and social media, to reach out to friends and family.
6. Determine how you’ll accept donations
Before asking for donations, you’ll need to decide on a way to collect them. Let your participants know what to expect so they can donate easily, whether it's through cash, checks, online donations or payment apps, like PayPal or Venmo.
7. Make a schedule for event day
To help keep your event on track, create a schedule for the day. Map out when the event will happen and how it will unfold. Building and sticking to a schedule can help ensure your event feels organized and the day runs as smoothly as possible. Be sure to plan for the unexpected as well, including the weather. Build in some buffer time to account for any hiccups or surprises.
8. Market your event
Once you’ve ironed out all the details, it’s time to market your event. Getting the word out is key, so use all of the resources you have available.
Social media can be especially helpful for marketing. Post about your fundraiser and encourage others to share the information. Email and more traditional marketing tactics, such as flyers and word-of-mouth promotion, can also help generate interest in your event.
9. Get fundraising
Now it's time for the fun part. You’ve done all of the hard work to plan your fundraiser and make your event as successful as it can be. Let the fundraising begin!
Find a fundraiser
Interested in fundraising for St. Jude, but don’t have the time to organize an event? Join or donate to one of our current fundraisers. From walk-a-thons to scavenger hunts, find a fundraiser that works for you.
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