Tricycle Racing for Charity

If you have participated in any fundraising efforts in the past year, chances are you have become quite familiar with the word “no.”  Asking for donations nowadays is a crash course in rejection and frustration.  Unfortunately, with the tough economic climate, everyone is cutting back and charitable giving is usually the first thing to go.  Similarly, the non-profits in your town are struggling, even as their clientele and needs grow. So what can you do to help?  How can you meet your fundraising goals in spite of cutbacks?

It is time to get creative, and change your perspective.  Instead of asking people for a donation, wouldn’t you rather have them offering their money to you?  How about smiling faces gladly handing over checks rather than that look of slight irritation as they reluctantly thumb through their wallets?  You have a marketable product and ways you can add value to it.  The key is to find a way to sell more than a tax write-off!

I have discovered that events and attractions are great for adding inherent value to a donation.  It is hard to put a price on quality entertainment, whether it be food, beverage, music, a good laugh, or just a wonderful experience.  Here is your chance to show how passionate you are about the cause.  Give your audience an opportunity to see your dedication firsthand.

If you need a venue, realize that the ability to bring a crowd in the front door is your selling point.  Bars and restaurants want customers and you have them.  I have done several “bartending nights” where all tips went to my charity.  The owners gladly lured in folks with drink specials.  I raised a good chunk of money, the restaurant did well from the venture, and patrons tipped generously because they were getting great deals.  It was a win-win situation for everyone.  It never hurts to ask, so call up some of your favorite local spots and see if they would like to help.

If you want people to sponsor you to run a race, consider making it memorable for your contributors.  Wear a goofy outfit, cover your race jersey with sponsor logos, or simply follow up afterwards with action shots and a detailed account of your experience.  Create a lasting impression on the people that support you.  Chances are they will be more than willing next time.

In the event that you are running short on ideas, let me offer one last suggestion:  Your humility is free!  Would you take a pie in the face for your charity?  How about shaving your head?  I have worn my fair share of goofy outfits, raced tricycles, and forgone my shame for a stage performance or two.  Even better, I had a great time doing all of it.  Make it special and they will mark their calendars for next year.

Whatever you are considering, be sure to look at it from the giver’s perspective.  When you are playing the asking role, it is easy to assume that everyone will be captivated and instantly willing to buy your pitch.  If a stranger gave you the same sell, then what would your reaction be?  If they give, are they going to avoid you next time around?  Guilt money does not make you successful, but continued giving is proof of your good work.  Above all else, if you believe in what you are doing, and people believe in you, then you can make great things happen.

DoGood!

Matt

PS- I would love to hear your creative fundraising ideas!  Post them in the comment section below!