Choosing the cause and fundraising
“Whoever relieves a believer of a hardship in this world, Allah will relieve him of a hardship on the Day of Resurrection.” (Sahih Muslim)
This section covers what the money is for and how teams raise it. Donors give because they trust you, so be clear, honest and modest in what you promise.
Choosing the cause
As the organiser, you decide which refugee programmes the funds will support. Choose something specific that donors can picture, such as a particular project, region or group of people. Then tell each team about it before they begin to fundraise.
A short briefing from your programme staff, or a story from the field, helps teams give with understanding. Be careful not to over-promise. Say what you will do with the money, not what it will solve.
Setting targets
Each team agrees its own target with you. Aim for something ambitious but realistic, based on team size and the group’s network. Share targets openly, and update teams on progress as the day comes closer.
Giving pages
Set up one page for each team, linked to your charity’s main campaign. Let individual members also create their own page under the team. This makes it easy for friends and family to give, and easy for you to see the total.
- Use a platform that supports Gift Aid, so you can claim an extra 25p for every £1 from eligible UK taxpayers
- Put the cause, the date and a photo on every page
- Give teams a short guide on how to share their page safely
- Provide printed sponsorship forms for those who prefer paper
Ideas teams can use
Teams know their communities best, so let them lead. Common ideas include bake sales, iftar or coffee mornings, sponsored training sessions, and approaching local businesses for support. Remind teams to follow your fundraising rules, to be honest about where money goes and never to pressure anyone to give.
Recognising spirit, not totals
We do not give prizes for the amount raised. Money raised depends on a group’s size and contacts, and a prize would reward privilege over effort. Celebrate every total warmly, and share the combined figure, but save the awards for courage, teamwork and spirit.
A letter to invite groups
Here is a template you can adapt. Add your own details, and keep the tone friendly.
Dear [name],
We would love your group to join [Challenge name] on [date] at [venue]. It is a 10K team challenge in modest dress, bringing together women’s groups from across [region] to raise money for [cause].
Each team has 8 to 12 members of all fitness levels. We handle safety, first aid and the course. You bring your spirit and your friends.
We would be glad to talk it through on a call or visit. Please let us know by [date] if you would like to take part.
With thanks and best wishes, [Name], [Charity]
Now your teams need to get ready for the course.