Keeping up the fundraising momentum
How to ask again
Not everyone you ask to donate to your fundraising page will donate. And that’s okay. But rest assured, your fundraising network do want you to achieve your goal and more often than not they won’t be annoyed to hear your updates and requests for donations.
We understand that while some fundraisers are comfortable asking their support network repeatedly for donations or increasing their fundraising target, for many there is a real sense of fear in doing so. That's why we have set out below some tips and advice for maximising your fundraising.
The best time to ask for donations
When you hit a milestone
At the end of the month
An event within an event
Whether you are training for a physical challenge or hosting an event yourself, it can feel really awkward and uncomfortable asking for donations for the same thing over and over again.
But there are many ways to boost your fundraising and keep your network engaged. Rather than putting all the focus on a single event or day, why not try to arrange other fundraising opportunities in the lead up to your event.
Whether it’s a quiz night at a local venue, a sport’s day at work, or an auction of promises in your local village hall, there are many ways to fundraise and highlight your story and challenge.
Check out our A-Z of Easy Fundraising Ideas
It’s a team effort
Make sure that with every fundraising update you send out, you remember to keep everyone updated with your progress. You can also provide other options for your supporters to help. You can take and adapt the text below to make it your own words and style.
“If you’ve already donated, I really appreciate your support and it will go so far to helping support people living with cancer. If you’re not in a position to donate right now, then please could you share my fundraising page as far and as wide as possible.”
Sharing your story can in the long run mean you get many more donations than if you just ask people directly for a donation. “My friend is taking on an amazing challenge for Macmillan. Read more about it here…” can be a very convincing message, even to people who may not know you personally.
Widening your network
Collection tins, buckets and boxes
Get in touch with our fundraising team about ordering Macmillan collection tins, buckets and boxes. They can be a great way to involve your local community in your fundraising.
Podcasts
If you know anyone that hosts a podcast, or know of podcasts that your fundraising event is relevant to, then why not reach out and offer to share your story.
Local paper
Similar to podcasts, and especially if you’re fundraising in a different way from the norm, contact your local newspaper to see if they would be willing to feature your story in the paper or online.
Notice boards
Local community notice boards are a great way to widen your network in your local area and create a buzz around your fundraising efforts.
Raising your fundraising target
Sometimes your fundraising will go better than you can ever have imagined. If you’re approaching your target with plenty of time until event day, then there’s no harm in raising your target. Let people know how much you appreciate their support and explain that through their generosity you have managed to set a new goal.
And if you hit that target, then why not do it again! Every penny really makes a difference.