If you’re planning a challenge to raise funds for a charity, building a relationship with the charity itself can make a huge difference. Not only can it boost the success of your fundraiser, but it also lets the charity get more value from your efforts. Here’s a guide on how to talk to charities about your challenge and create a win-win partnership.
Do your research on the charity
Before reaching out, spend some time researching the charity’s mission, values, and ongoing campaigns. Knowing their work and impact will allow you to have a more meaningful conversation and show the charity that you’re serious about supporting them.
- Read their website and recent campaigns: Understand their focus and any recent fundraisers they’ve held.
- Identify common goals: Think about how your challenge aligns with their mission. For example, if the charity supports refugees, consider how your mud run can symbolise the resilience and journey of those they support.
Be clear about your challenge and your fundraising goals
When you approach the charity, be transparent about what you’re doing, why you chose this challenge, and how much you aim to raise. This clarity helps the charity understand your commitment and plan how they might support you.
- Explain the challenge: Describe the physical challenge you’ll be taking on, and why it’s meaningful. Highlight any unique aspects, such as wearing abayas for a mud run, to show how committed you are.
- Share your fundraising target: Be open about your target amount and why it’s important to you. This will make the charity feel part of your journey and give them an idea of the potential impact of your fundraiser.
Ask how you can support their goals
A successful fundraiser is mutually beneficial, so ask the charity what they need help with. Are they running a specific campaign where your funds could be directed? Do they need more awareness for a particular project?
- Offer to highlight their work: Let the charity know you’re willing to promote their current projects or needs in your fundraising materials.
- Ask about shared goals: Find out if there’s a campaign or goal you can contribute to – this shows you’re invested in their mission, not just in your own challenge.
Offer to use their branding and share updates
Let the charity know you’re open to incorporating their branding, logo, and information in your fundraising page and materials. This can boost the charity’s visibility and attract more donations from people who resonate with their cause.
- Use official logos: Ask for permission to use the charity’s logo on your fundraising page, social media posts, or any promotional materials.
- Share updates with impact: Show supporters how their donations are making a difference by sharing any updates, stories, or facts provided by the charity.
Create promotional opportunities together
A charity can often help increase the visibility of your fundraiser through their own channels. Propose some collaborative promotion ideas that benefit both you and the charity.
- Social media features: Ask if they’re willing to promote your fundraiser on their social media platforms or website. This can bring in more donors from their existing audience.
- Blog posts or newsletters: Suggest writing a short blog post for their website or contributing a story to their newsletter. This helps the charity engage their supporters and shows them the inspiring effort you’re putting in.
Be open to feedback and guidance
Charities often have experience with fundraisers, so they can offer valuable insights and guidance. Be open to their advice on everything from campaign timing to the types of messaging that resonate best with their supporters.
- Listen to their advice: They may have suggestions on how to approach potential donors or ideas for creating impactful social media posts.
- Follow best practices: Some charities might have specific guidelines for fundraisers. Respect these and incorporate them into your plans to build a positive partnership.
Offer to share the results and impact
After your challenge, follow up with the charity to let them know the results. Show them that your efforts have helped achieve something meaningful.
- Send a thank you: Acknowledge any support the charity provided, whether through promotion, advice, or resources.
- Share the funds raised and impact made: Let them know the total funds raised and offer to help promote any impact stories they can share with their community.
In summary
Talking to charities about your fundraiser is a chance to build a strong, mutually beneficial relationship. By showing genuine interest in their mission, asking how you can support their goals, and promoting their brand, you can create a partnership that amplifies your impact and leaves a positive impression.