You’re Offering a Valuable Opportunity
During your first fundraiser, asking friends and family for money might feel awkward. It doesn’t have to. You’re not asking for money for yourself; you’re inviting them to support a worthy cause. Think of it not as requesting something, but as allowing others to feel good about themselves.
People Will Give If You Ask
People give for many reasons. Some want to help others or improve their community. Some donate because it’s a family or religious tradition. But a study in Psychology Today magazine found that 85% of respondents gave because someone asked them. That’s it. They were asked, so they gave.
Ask In Person
It’s hard to say no to someone standing in front of you or talking to you on the phone.
Ask on Social Media
Wherever you engage your friends, family and colleagues online, ask them to support your fundraiser and share your posts. Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit and X can carry your message. Use the platform where you’re most active. Tag the people most likely to share.
Ask Often
Don’t be afraid to ask more than once. People get busy, get distracted and have other priorities. If you talked to them in person, give them a call. If you called them, text a reminder. Most of us must hear a request more than once, even when we intend to give. If you need a reason to reconnect, update your audience on the fundraiser’s progress.
