Do you need money to make your volunteer program effective, even though it creates important experiences for participants? You've come to the right place.
In this post, we'll look at seven fundraising ideas that actually work when it comes to financing your volunteer programs—whether they're designed to help out locally or contribute on a global scale.
We'll provide you with useful suggestions and examples for each method discussed, meaning there's something here for everyone, whether online or offline, whether a small community initiative or a major project.
So, if lack of funds has been holding back your volunteering scheme, don't worry about it anymore!
1. Virtual Fundraising Gala
A virtual gala is an online event where people come together to raise money for your cause, even if they can't be there in person. To host one, use a video conferencing platform like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
At your virtual gala, plan live entertainment (musicians playing from their living rooms?), guest speakers inspiring others with their stories, and interactive elements such as online auctions or donation drives so donors stay engaged throughout.
To get the word out about your virtual gala, promote it on social media, in email newsletters, and on your website. That way, you'll reach more people (and potential donors!).
If you want to raise money for your virtual gala, you can use online payment platforms such as PayPal or Stripe. These allow people to donate while your event is happening.
You could also offer sponsorship packages to companies that want to support your cause. They might like the idea of being seen at the gala – even if it is only online.
2. Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
Peer-to-peer fundraising is an effective method of involving volunteers in raising money for your volunteer program – together. By enabling volunteers to create their own fundraising pages, you allow them to use their social networks and connections to gain support for your cause.
To run a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign, provide volunteers with what they need to set up individual pages: resources and tools.
To get started, consider hosting a workshop or virtual training session to guide volunteers on how they can effectively promote their fundraising pages and connect with potential donors. Encourage them to get creative with storytelling and provide tips for using social media, email outreach, and personal networks.
You might also think about providing ongoing support throughout the campaign, as well as motivation and recognition for participants.
When it comes to actually collecting funds from peer-to-peer fundraisers, there are online platforms that can handle secure donations directly into your organization's bank account.
One option is to partner with crowdfunding websites. Alternatively, there is specialized software for peer-to-peer fundraising, which makes donation tracking and reporting easier.
And don't forget to say thank you: let everyone who takes part know how grateful you are for both their advocacy on behalf of your volunteer program and the difference their collective contributions will make.
3. Corporate Sponsorship
Corporate sponsorship is a way for your volunteer program to work together with businesses that have similar values and objectives.
By partnering with companies like this, you can get money to help pay for events, projects, and other things you need support for while also giving sponsors valuable public profile-raising opportunities in your area.
To set up a good corporate sponsorship opportunity, first think about what kind of businesses or organizations would be a good fit with what you do and want to achieve. Then contact them! Explain clearly why it would be great for them financially or image-wise (or both!) to back your volunteer program.
When looking for corporate sponsorships, highlight the unique benefits of each company and modify your proposal to show how their support will impact your community.
Be ready to discuss details of the partnership, like sponsorship levels, ways they’ll be acknowledged, and promotional opportunities.
If you’re asking businesses for money or donations, make it clear what you’re expecting financially or in terms of goods or services. Offer sponsor acknowledgment through things like logos at events or on marketing materials so they get visibility in exchange for their support.
Stay connected with sponsors as your relationship develops to ensure both sides are satisfied with how things are going.
4. Crowdfunding Campaign
If you want to gather small donations from a large number of people online in order to fund your volunteer program, running a crowdfunding campaign through sites such as GoFundMe or Kickstarter might be worth considering.
To get started, select a crowdfunding platform that suits your needs (some may have lower fees or cater specifically to certain types of projects) and create an account.
Next up: putting together your actual campaign page. This is where you’ll explain what your volunteer program does, why it’s needed, and what you plan to achieve with the money raised.
Aim for an emotive pitch that combines words and images to produce a strong message – one that sticks in people’s minds long after they’ve navigated away from your site.
Safely gather funds through the crowdfunding platform’s payment processing system, which enables people worldwide to securely donate online toward your cause.
Let donors know exactly how their contributions will help further your volunteer programs—and show appreciation for them throughout the campaign.
5. Merchandise Sales
Online merchandise sales can be a great way to fund your volunteer programs. Start by creating unique items such as custom t-shirts, mugs, or tote bags with your organization’s logo or a special message about your cause. Local print shops and online services like Custom Ink or Printful can help you produce them.
You can set up an online store through e-commerce sites like Etsy or Shopify or use one on your own website to reach more people. Use social media posts, email newsletters, and tell everyone you know to promote the products you’re selling.
Make sure you have a secure way to process payments (like PayPal or Stripe). Keep track of orders, manage inventory well, and provide good customer service so that people have a smooth experience – and want to support you by shopping for your stuff!
6. Virtual Challenge Events
Virtual challenge events are a great way to fundraise for your volunteer program. Plus, they foster community spirit and healthy competition!
To pull off a successful virtual challenge, start by choosing your theme or concept. Are you going for a fitness drive? A scavenger hunt? An online tournament? Tailor your event so it aligns with your cause and appeals to your audience.
Next, work out the details: How long will it run for? What are the rules? Are there prizes—and if so, what kind? Do people need to sign up in teams or can they go solo? Promote your event through social media, newsletters, and your website—and make sure you explain how participants can join in.
To collect funds during your virtual challenge, use an online platform that lets people sponsor participants (don't forget to explain this when you promote the event!). Make it clear how individuals can donate, and consider sharing regular updates so people know how close you're getting to hitting targets.
At the end of the challenge, don't forget to celebrate what everyone's achieved—showing appreciation for participants' support is vital!
7. Grant Writing
Grant writing can help you get financial support for your community programs and volunteer projects. Start by researching grant opportunities that match what your organization does from non-profits, government agencies, and foundations. You may find grants specifically for social impact projects, community service, or volunteering.
To have a good chance of winning a grant, read the guidelines carefully before writing your application. Explain clearly why you need money, along with details about what your program hopes to achieve and how you will measure this.
You should also show how funds from this particular grant would be used effectively – both for volunteers benefitting from the project and any wider community impacted.
When trying to raise money through grants, it’s important that your application is well-written so as to persuade others. Make clear how valuable your volunteer schemes are whilst also explaining how receiving a grant here would make things even better than they currently are!
Remember any paperwork requested alongside having everything submitted in good time, too, since missed deadlines won’t help when people are assessing whether or not an award should be given out.
Bottom Line
Fundraising for volunteer programs and experiences doesn't have to feel overwhelming. By thinking outside the box and using a variety of fundraising techniques – such as online events, peer-to-peer drives, and applying for grants – you can raise the money needed to take your volunteer projects up a notch.
Every dollar you bring in will help create positive change – plus unforgettable moments – in your community. So why not try out these fundraising ideas?
You might just find inspiration that leads to resources, such as financial support, that enables people to do good work, have fun, and make incredible memories while helping others.
Let's work together on this important task – because when we do, amazing things happen!