Fundraising & Awareness

It can be difficult and overwhelming to know where to start for planning a fundraiser to raise money for a cause. We are here to help! While there are many steps that you will need to take in order to ensure a successful fundraiser, the following is a good starting point.

View Fundraising ideas

Where do I start for an in-person event?

  1. Set your purpose and goals for the fundraiser – ex. awareness/money for research/support the ULF
  2. Reach out to family, friends and local businesses for help planning, volunteers and resources.
  3. Set a date and time and reserve a location. Prepare event materials with your goals and propose cash sponsorship from local businesses and organizations.
  4. Reach out to your local police department or city government to make them aware of the event or for approval.
  5. Create marketing materials and announce the event via website and social media channels. (Marketing info)
  6. Does your event require a registration form and insurance waiver?
  7. Create sponsorship agreements, whether monetary or in-kind donations such as food, water, media, music and sound equipment, etc.
  8. Holding a 5K? Measure and map the run/walk route, order race bibs, and awards!
  9. Secure event insurance.
  10. Begin your advertising strategy!
  11. Reserve event equipment such as portable bathroom stations, fencing or barriers, sound equipment, etc.
  12. Begin reaching out to volunteers who can help the event run smoothly. Think churches, schools, sports teams, service clubs… Pending the event, consider on-site medical personnel for first aid or a stand-by ambulance in case of a medical event.
  13. Order event t-shirts and other promotional materials – hats, wrist bands, sweatshirts, banners, decorations, tablecloths, signage, etc.
  14. Set event day schedule including event location representative, volunteers, and sponsors.
  15. Don’t forget to say THANK YOU!

Where do I start for a raffle or drawing fundraiser?

Two beauty queens wearing pink tops and smiling
  • Set your purpose and goals for the fundraiser – ex. awareness/money for research/support the ULF Target audience?
  • Decide on whether the event will be in person or remote online. In person, reserve a location or time during a previously scheduled event such as a sporting event or community meeting. Set goals and consider your community/target audience.
  • Set a date and time.
  • Reach out to your local city or county government to make them aware of the raffle/drawing and secure permit approval, if in person.
  • Create tickets and marketing materials.
  • Reach out to friends, family, local businesses, service clubs, sports teams, religious groups, libraries, etc. to sell tickets for your drawing.
  • Announce the fundraiser via your website and social media channels. (Marketing info) Sell those tickets!
  • Don’t forget to say THANK YOU!

3rd Party Fundaising “Tool Kit” 

Host a restaurant fundraiser in your own hometown!

Tips and Tool Kits