Gandhi said to be the change you seek in the world. Be the courage, generosity and progressiveness that you wish to see in your organization. Use that philosophy to create a successful fundraiser event. Fundraiser walks not only bring in money, but also bring attention to the causes that inspired the charities. Universities, nonprofits and for-profit corporations all are potential resources for fueling a charity walk. Appropriate marketing strategies are key to fulfilling attendance and financial goals. Use creativity and resourcefulness to create a no-fail plan for a successful fundraiser walk.
Instructions
1. Choose a walk date that is one year away. Weather is impossible to predict a year in advance, but you must give donors, sponsors and walkers enough time to schedule the walk in their calendars. Allow at least six months if a finalized walk date one year in advance is not possible.
2. Finalize financial paperwork. If proceeds from your fundraiser walk will be going to a nonprofit organization, fill out all of the proper paperwork to create the 501(c)(3) tax status. Set up all necessary bank accounts. Potential sponsors and donors may ask to see financial paperwork to prove that the nonprofit or charity is legitimate.
3. Acquire city permits. Any event over a certain amount of people requires a permit from the city. Each municipality differs as to how many participants will trigger a permit request. Financial paperwork that proves the legitimacy of a nonprofit may by necessary. File paperwork with the city at least six months in advance of the event.
4. Recruit volunteers. Volunteers are the lifeblood of successful fundraiser walks. Contact local colleges, universities and nonprofits to recruit volunteers. Be explicit about the goals of the fundraiser walk. Talk about the disease, victim or circumstance that serves as the catalyst for the walk. The Non-Profit Congress notes the importance of strong volunteer programs on its website.
5. Solicit sponsors. Contact corporations, local businesses and universities. For example, ask local office supply stores and copying centers to donate paper and ink for flyers. Ask other local businesses to supply the trophies and other awards for the winners of the walk.
6. Create a marketing plan. Use bulletin boards, email blasts, social-networking sites and door-to-door solicitation to publicize the fundraiser walk. Utilize the volunteers to carry out the goals of the marketing strategy.
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