Fundraising. The word strikes fear into my heart. Not because I'm a horrible person who cannot part with their cash, not at all. In fact, I donate money to charity and spend a heck of a lot of time volunteering and organising money making events within my school community. The reason the word fundraising causes me distress is when I'm the one running around asking for money. It is so hard.
Back in January, I believe, I spoke a little about the fact that I was excited about going on a school mission trip in July this year. As part of the deal we are expected to do a whole bunch of fundraising which has been fine and we have been doing very well. Until now.
We are holding a silent auction at a popular gathering our school holds annually. That's where it becomes tricky. I find it SO difficult to ask for money/donations and now I have to go around to all the local businesses and ask them to donate their good for the auction. I'm finding it impossibly difficult.So, what is the purpose of this post? Well, I was wondering if any of you lovely ladies had done anything like this before and if you have any tips or advice you could give.
Is it worth me sending emails out to bigger companies or should I stick to little, local businesses? Are there any businesses renowned for making small donations or is it like drawing blood from a stone? Should I look for gift vouchers, food, services or any particular types of donations? What usually sells well at a silent auction?
Any advice would be of so much use because, as you can see, I have no idea what I am doing and to be honest the whole thing scares me to death!
Somebody I knew had to do this kind of thing a while back, and they found it just as difficult! They managed to get a lot of local businesses involved however, even bigger businesses like The Reject Shop got involved. If I remember correctly they either emailed or phoned (I think they phoned the bigger places, but their local stores) and just explained and said if there's anything they'd like to offer, it would be a great way to get their business out there but if not, no hard feelings.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with it Candice! I can't imagine how difficult it is, I don't think I could ever do it!
Thank you so much Jasmine! We have had a little bit of success with a couple of generous local businesses, but I find it SO hard to ask for things! Because I am only a kid in my school uniform too, they treat me differently to what I think they would treat an adult...they don't really take me all that seriously. I guess I would have more luck on the phone!
DeleteThank you so much!
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It's great that you're participating in something like this :) It's always nice to give to those we are in need.
ReplyDeleteI so know what you mean! I find it so hard to ask for donations because some people can be quite mean about it and refuse to give, or don't believe that you're genuinely helping out and think you're lying -.-
I think small, local businesses are your best bet! I always seem to get donations from my family and friends though xD
People really can be awful about it, and they do think you're making it up. Thanks for the advice Sheri, and I might have to pester my family and friends a bit more!
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The only experience I have is being on the other end - being asked by people. I don't ever find it annoying either. As the others have suggested, smaller local businesses or franchises are your best bet because they wont have to go through a head office to donate things. I used to work at Gloria Jeans and we donated a few things to schools sometimes, mostly vouchers and gift packs I think.
ReplyDeleteGood luck :)
Thank you so much lovely! That surprises me that Gloria Jeans donated things - that's so great! I shall keep plodding on! :)
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Hi Candice, I am just getting in touch to say there are easier ways out there is you have a large group of people behind you. I work at easyfundraising which is a great way to raise funds without doing anything you wouldn't already do. We are able to take a small percent of you on-line purchases to any stores that have registered and donate them to your chosen charity. You can even register any non-profit organisation for receiving the funds.
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