Download a sample fundraising letter

• Set a fundraising goal. Challenge yourself and aim high. Let everyone know your goal.

• Send an email with a personal fundraising message to everyone in your address book. Explain why you are participating, state your fundraising goal, and include a link to your online fundraising page.

• If you are not using online fundraising, mail your personal fundraising message to friends, family, and colleagues and include a self-addressed stamped envelope to make it easier for them to send back a donation.

• Ask 20 friends, family members or colleagues to donate just $25 each and you will easily raise $500

• Change your email auto-signature at work and/or at home to include a fundraising message and a link to your fundraising page (e.g., Help me reach my fundraising goal by making a donation at www.firstgiving.com/your url)

• Send out periodic e-mail updates on your progress to your entire list. Those who have already donated will appreciate the update and for those who haven’t, it will serve as a gentle reminder.

• Double your pledges! Find out if your company has a matching gift program by contacting your Human Resources Department.

• If your company has a newsletter or intranet site, ask if you can submit information on your participation in the event to it, as many companies like to promote the charitable efforts of their staff.

• If you are participating on behalf of an organization or on a team, set up a competition between members or other teams to see who can raise the most money.

• Hang an event poster up in a visible area at work or at school.

• Record a message about the event on your voicemail or answering machine.

• Ask local businesses that you frequent for a donation (e.g., hair salon, dry cleaners, health club). They may want to sponsor you!

• Coordinate a bake sale, car wash or other lunchtime event at work or school.

• Don’t forget to pledge yourself!

Good Luck!!