Top 10 Fundraising Tips for Volunteer Travellers

Many potential volunteers are put off by the price tag of travel. The good news is, i-to-i is here to help! We offer a fundraising guide and tailor-made advice to everyone who joins one of our projects. As a taster, here are i-to-i’s top 10 tips for fundraising.

 

Many potential volunteers are put off by the price tag of travel. The good news is, i-to-i is here to help! We offer a fundraising guide and tailor-made advice to everyone who joins one of our projects. As a taster, here are i-to-i’s top 10 tips for fundraising.

 1. Who do I know?

Successful fundraising costs little and reaches a wide audience. Think: "who can help me?" Maybe a member of the family works in a large company which might be willing to sponsor you? A friend might be able to provide a venue for a fundraising event? Build ideas around what you already have.

2. Keep your reasons for volunteering in mind

A passionate desire to help will bring in donations - particularly when 'face-to face' fundraising.

3. Produce a leaflet

Explain your reasons for volunteering abroad and give some background on the project. Include the leaflet in every fundraising activity.

4. Have a goal

Know how much you need to raise and for every fundraising activity, assess how much you expected to raise against what you actually do. Some ideas work, others might not.

5. Ask for specific donations

But don't stand by them! Asking for a specific amount will give your donors a benchmark. If you’re asking for sponsorship, it may be an idea to go to your biggest benefactor first – people often follow the leader.

6. Write well-targeted letters

To individuals, and individuals within companies, asking for support.

7. Hold an (inexpensive!) event

And make it wacky – like the lion conservation volunteer who sat in a tub of cat-food! Draw attention to your goals, get sponsorship and give publicity to companies who have already donated to your cause. Local press coverage can also be useful.

8. Always offer something in return

To every sponsor who makes a donation. This could be as simple as sending them a copy of your diary via email when you are abroad, or giving a talk when you return.

9. Plan ahead

To avoid missing your targets.

10. Use your time wisely

Fundraisers generally use as much time as they have to achieve their goals. If you are on a tight deadline, you will just be working that bit harder!

There are so many ways to find all the cash you need to take you on your travels. So don’t let money get in the way – simply put your fundraising hat on and you’ll be on your way in no time!

 

 

Page Comments

Add Your Comment!

Log in to leave a comment or Create an account