Fundraising can seem quite daunting, especially if you’re aiming to raise a large sum.  However there are many ways to fundraise, from asking for sponsorship to organising fundraising events, so once you get started you’ll be amazed what you can achieve. 

People are usually pleased to sponsor someone who’s completing a challenge (they’ll feel like you’re really earning the money) or support your fundraising events, such as buying cakes or attending fundraising nights out.  Giving makes people feel good so don’t be afraid to approach family, friends and colleagues, knowing you’re supporting an important cause.

The CARE Challenge Team are here to help you, so if you need any fundraising advice or would like to talk through any fundraising ideas, please call us on 020 7091 6111. 

Here are our top ten fundraising tips to get you started…

1. Make a fundraising plan
Make a list of all your fundraising ideas, including how much each will raise, and when you plan to do them.  Think about any opportunities you might have through work, friends and family and any clubs you belong to.  Be sure to keep it realistic!  Tell everyone how much you plan to raise.  It’s really inspiring!

2. Find a fundraising partner
It’s easier to fundraise with someone else, so work with your team mates or encourage a friend or colleague to join you and fundraise together.   Your fundraising partner doesn’t have to take part in your challenge – anyone willing to help will be a huge asset.  You’ll have someone to brainstorm ideas with, share your fundraising with and motivate you to keep going, as well as having more contacts to reach out to.

3. Create a Just Giving page
The easiest way to start fundraising is to set up an online sponsorship page.  Go to www.justgiving.com/care to set up your page and send it to everyone you know, including friends, family, and corporate contacts. Add the link to your page to your email signature to keep reminding people to sponsor you.

4. Write a launch email
The best way to start your fundraising is to write an engaging email to everyone you know to encourage them to sponsor you.  Write something personal, whether it’s the fact that you have never done something like this before, how you plan to train, or what inspired you to support CARE International.    The best time to send this is just after pay day. For a list of inspiring examples of CARE’s work and see how donations from £5 can make a difference, please click here.

5. Enlist the support of senior managers
The chances are if you get your boss on board, your whole company will get behind you and support your fundraising, be it dress down days or a raffle at your work Christmas party.  They might also have some great contacts for corporate sponsorship. 

6. Check your company policy
Many companies support their employees' fundraising efforts with either a donation or matched giving.  Make sure you check as a priority.

7. Approach suppliers and corporate contacts
Your company deals with other businesses every day of the working week so use these relationships to your advantage.  Ask them for support in your event preparations whether it's fundraising, kit, raffle prizes or vehicle sponsorship.  Check with your manager before asking.

8. Organise fundraising events
A great way of fundraising is to organise an event, whether it's a pub quiz or a dinner party.  You and your supporters will have a great night out, and you’ll raise funds towards your target.  When you sign up we’ll give you details of tried and tested fundraising ideas that have been popular and successful for previous CARE fundraisers, and ways to maximize fundraising during your event.

9. Publicise your event
Whether you use your company name or not, taking part in a CARE challenge can be great PR for you and your team.  Approach your local newspaper, radio or trade magazines by sending them a press release (don't forget to add your justgiving link at the end).  If you would like assistance with media coverage, please contact the CARE Challenge Team on 020 7091 6111 and ask to speak to our PR and Communications Executive.

10. Collect small change
Every penny counts! So make sure you're collecting them; at work, at home, at the gym and at the pub with a CARE collection tin.  You can order a tin when you’ve signed up to a challenge.

Finally...the CARE Challenge Team will support you all the way!
When you sign up to a CARE Challenge you will receive fundraising advice and information in your registration pack and through our online resources.You’ll also have a dedicated contact in the CARE Challenge team to talk through your fundraising ideas with.  You can request collection tins, buckets, stickers and CARE leaflets to help you with your fundraising and you’ll also get regular updates on our work, to keep you motivated.  We also offer fundraising workshops for any teams participating in our events.

For more fundraising advice, please call the CARE Challenge Team on 020 7091 6111.