Fundraising, from first plan to final thank-you.
Whether you’ve been fundraising for decades or you’re just getting started, this handbook offers tips and tricks to kickstart your success.
- 4 chapters
- 12 min read
- From the RaiseThon team
What you need to get started.
- Your organization name and basic information
- Your tax ID
- Your payment gateways and login details
- Your logo
- The story you want to share with donors
- A list of ambassadors and past donors
Plan your campaign
Set a clear goal
Before you launch, decide what success looks like. Base your goal on what your organization needs, what you raised before and the size of your donor base, and plan a stretch goal to keep momentum going after you reach it.
Pick your dates early
For larger campaigns, start planning 6 to 8 weeks before your campaign dates. Keep the campaign itself to about a week: a shorter window creates urgency and keeps donors engaged.
Build your team of ambassadors
Your most passionate supporters are your best fundraisers. Recruit them early, ask them to lead teams, and encourage them to give first so others follow.
Launch strong
Start with momentum
The first day sets the tone. Line up donations from your board, matchers and closest supporters before launch, so the progress bar is already moving when everyone else arrives.
Tell a story, not just a number
Show donors what their donation will do. Graphics, video and clear copy help people connect with your cause far more than a goal amount on its own.
Reach people where they are
Some donors respond to a phone call, others to an email, a text or a post on social. Plan a message for every channel before launch day.
Keep the momentum
Create urgency
Matching donations, bonus rounds and countdowns give donors a reason to act now. Save a strong push for the final 48 hours.
Share updates often
Celebrate milestones, thank donors publicly and share progress. Every update is another reason for someone to give or share.
Use social proof
When people see others giving, they’re more likely to join in. Show your donors, top teams and live progress prominently.
Follow up
Thank everyone
Send personal thank-yous to donors, captains and volunteers. Gratitude goes a long way toward next year’s support.
Share your impact
Show your community what their donations made possible. It builds trust and excitement for your next campaign.
Learn for next time
Debrief with your team while the campaign is fresh. What worked, what didn’t, and what will you do differently?
Start your RaiseThon today.
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