1. Aim to update your donors at least once a week
Aside from sharing why you are hopeful about your fundraiser and what you are doing to reach your fundraising goal, be sure to also share any new progress or challenges since your last update. Are you planning on hosting a fundraising event? Did you reach a fundraising milestone? Did a local business offer a matching donation? Have you begun to use funds that you have already received? These updates help donors feel more connected.
2. Add photos or videos
Make your updates more engaging by using visuals. Including photos or videos with your progress helps donors feel like they are a part of your journey.
3. Let donors know how they’re making a difference
Once you begin using the funds for your cause, update your donors on what the funds are being used for and how they’re helping your cause. Telling donors how they’ve already made an impact can inspire more to give.
4. Share fundraising milestones
Any time your fundraiser reaches a significant achievement, celebrate it with your donors. Here are a few examples of important milestones:
- When you reach 25% of your fundraising goal: Keep up the momentum by posting an update and letting people know how new donations can help.
- When you’re more than halfway to your goal: Thank your community for helping you get this far, and share any new progress.
- When your community has helped you reach 75% of your goal: You’re almost there. Post a progress update and ask if your community can help you get to 100%.
- When you reach your goal: Celebrate and thank your donors for their help, and provide any updates on how the funds are already being used.
5. Show your appreciation
While showing appreciation to your donors throughout your fundraising journey is important, once you’ve met your fundraising goal is an especially great time to thank those who made this possible. Often times we don’t realize how important a simple “Thank You” is to many people. It’s critical to be grateful and sincere. If you are organising a fundraiser for someone else, ask the person you’re fundraising for or a close family member to write a short message to those who have helped.
