You're Doing a Fundraiser!

Individuals:
Did you know that individuals were the largest source of fundraising? To the tune of 252 Billion dollars in 2007. Now that's some chunk of change. Even in todays market and economy.

Corporations:
give for several reasons...exposure, publicity, community respect, market share. Their giving often revolves around particular campaigns, events, and projects. It's a good source of support for new initiatives, special programs, and special events. You might even find yourself forming partnerships!

Local and State Governments:
You may find that they are willing to support projects that directly effect their location, like social service programs and educational needs.

You might also look into Federated Funds and Foundations.

Do's:

Take One Step at A Time

Just like everything important, it takes time to build the process and then, to take that plan to the next level. Take one step at a time, develop a plan of action, find a place of agreement, and step out together with excitement and enthusiasm for your cause. Don't forget to market your cause well ahead of the "main" fundraising event.

Remember Big Business Gives Big Money, but the Small Businesses Give
Consistently

When reaching out to donors, it's important to remember that no one group is too big and no one group is too small. Everyone has their place in building a great fundraiser. Often times the larger organizations will fund the ground work and the smaller organizations will consistently give over time to support your ongoing work. Hold them both in high esteem, you need them.

Go Local
When at all possible offer your local community the chance to be a primary part in supporting your goals. It builds unity and comradery among the people and businesses. It gives them an opportunity to stand together in support of one another and the fundraising effort. Make the events fun for individuals, businesses, and corporations.

Do What You Say You're Going to Do-Keep Your Promises!
Never under any circumstances make promises that you don't intend to keep. If you make a promise and, by some circumstances out of your control, you are unable to fulfill your obligation, contact your constituent immediately and offer another opportunity to replace the one that failed. Always be forthright with your donors; work with integrity, honor, and dignity when you reach out to others for your fundraising effort.

Don'ts:

Don't Get Overly Emotional when Working for a Great Cause
It's important to keep everything in perspective when dealing with emotionally charged fundraising efforts. State your case and cause clearly, with emotion, but not so much so that the cause is lost in your own personal sacrifice. Your constituents may get lost in the emotion of the moment and feel the need to pull back rather than embrace your feelings and donate.

Don't Be Afraid-If You Need Help, Get It
Often times you need to go to the big guns to get the help you need in achieving the type of fundraising support you are looking for. If you need to go to the Mayor, Governor, or higher to get the permissions and support you need, then 'fear not' and go. Most politicians are excited to embrace an event that builds unity among the base for a worthy cause.

Don't Judge Others by Their Generosity
Last but not least, never judge anyone by their generosity. Each and every donor sacrificially gives to your cause whether it's one dollar or tens of thousands of dollars. They are all appreciated equally; they are all thanked abundantly; and they are all counted, under the umbrella of your event, as friends.