Fundraising tips and tricks

Keen to organise a fundraiser, but not sure where to start? Our handy tips and tricks provide advice on how to choose the perfect event for you, publicise it, and collect your funds securely. Follow our 8 simple steps to fundraising success.
 

Step One

Choose something fun, that you really want to do. If you are a new parent you might want to organise a Buggy Walk to raise money and meet other mums and dads. Or if you love baking, maybe organising a Great British Bake sale or competition at work or school might suit you better. 

Your options are endless - just make sure it is something you will enjoy doing. If it is your first time fundraising it is probably best to keep it simple, you can always do something more adventurous next time.

  • Abseiling
  • Parachuting
  • Crafting
  • Babysitting
  • Dog walking
  • Afternoon tea  
  • Quiz Night
  • Wine tasting
  • Sponsored run or walk
  • Dinner party
  • Fetes and fairs
  • Head-shaving
  • Toy sale 
  • Bag packing
  • Football match
  • Non-uniform day
  • Book sale
  • Concert or recital

Step two

Think about who you want to get on board. Perhaps you are surrounded by Harry Potter fans at work, school or university so a Harry Potter quiz would go down a storm. Or you know everyone would love an excuse to dress up as their favourite Disney or Star Wars character. 

You are more likely to get people engaged if they want to join in, as well as support a great cause.
 

Step three

Be passionate. The money you raise will change children's lives, so be sure to let everyone know what a good cause they are donating to. Remind them that their support could provide a child with a family of their own, protect them during crisis situations, or send them to school for the first time. 
 
This will not only encourage support, but will motivate you to keep on going to reach your target too. It might even encourage others to start fundraising as well.

Step four

Set a date, time and fundraising target. The earlier you start planning the easier it will be - so give yourself plenty of time. A fundraising target will give you the push to really go for it.

If you are doing a sponsored event, set up an online giving form to make collecting sponsorship more convenient and easy to share. Remember to personalise your page, set a target and thank the wonderful people who donate.

Step five

The more the merrier. Think about how your friends could support you, or perhaps a local business or community group could get involved. There are so many people out there who want to help, and fundraising together can be a great way to meet like-minded people and make new friends along the way.

If you work for a company they might want to help too – they might even offer to match the amount you raise.

Step six

Tell everyone. Use social media, and ask your friends, family and colleagues to share too. Tell your local newspaper and radio, put up posters, and see if your work or school has a newsletter you could make use of. If you use email add a little fundraising message to your signature. 

We have prepared a media pack to help you broadcast your challenge or fundraising event far and wide.
                                     Media Pack

Step seven

Keep in touch. We want to help and support you, so do let us know what you are doing. From advice on running a marathon to the legalities of fundraising, we are here to help.

You can also tag us in posts on social media. We love seeing training photos or celebration videos so head over to our social media pages.

 soschildrensvillagesuk
 @SOSChildrenUK
 @SOSChildrenUK
 soschildrensvillagesuk
 soschildrensvillagesuk

Step eight

Say thank you. Be sure to thank all of your supporters and let them know what a difference their contribution has made. You never know, you might encourage others to start fundraising for SOS Children's Villages UK too.

If you have any other questions about getting your event started, head over to our fundraising FAQs, download our fundraising guide, or email hello@sosuk.org.