Effective Ways to Fundraise for Your Organization

Angela Davis once said, “I’m no longer accepting the things I cannot change…I’m changing the things I cannot accept.” The need is great in many communities, but the resources are often limited. That’s why people like you start community-based organizations—to bridge the gap and meet those needs. However, it doesn’t take long to realize that passion alone isn’t enough; you also need dedicated volunteers and reliable funding.

In the early 2000s, I founded a community-based organization to support underserved individuals. But not long after we started, we faced a major hurdle: funding. I submitted numerous grant proposals to different foundations, only to be met with the same response repeatedly: “Thank you for your application. Unfortunately, we are unable to assist your organization at this time.”

Despite these setbacks, one of our board members encouraged me, saying, “We cannot let a little obstacle stop us.” So, I turned to our board members for ideas. During a late-night meeting, I asked each member to share one or two fundraising suggestions. Our treasurer proposed asking for donations of old cars, while the secretary suggested seeking donations of used textbooks. It just so happened that one of our board members worked for the New York City sanitation department and had access to discarded textbooks from local schools.

Within weeks, this board member brought in hundreds of used textbooks. We resold more than half of them on Amazon, using the proceeds to fund workshops on financial planning and money management. Another board member asked a friend to donate a non-running car, which we sold to a mechanic on Craigslist.

Below are seven effective fundraising strategies, inspired by our experience, that can help your organization thrive:

1. Seek Sponsorship from Insurance Agencies

Approaching local insurance agents and auto insurance companies for sponsorships can be a successful #fundraising strategy. Many businesses are eager to support community initiatives. Encourage your board members and volunteers to reach out to insurance agents in your area and ask them to sponsor events or projects.

2. Solicit Donations of Used Cars and Furniture

As I mentioned earlier, one of our biggest successes came from selling a donated car. You can contact local car dealerships, mechanics, friends, #insurance companies, or auction houses to ask for donations of old or non-running cars. Your organization can then sell the donated cars through platforms like Craigslist or local auto auctions. This can be a surprisingly effective way to raise funds.

3. Leverage the Skills of Your Team

Many board members, volunteers, and founders have valuable, transferable skills. For example, if someone on your team is a financial planner, public speaker, or life coach, they can offer workshops and donate the proceeds to the #organization. This allows you to raise funds while showcasing the expertise within your team.

4. Partner with Domain Name Brokers

Believe it or not, domain brokers sometimes sell premium domain names for thousands or even millions of dollars. Research the top #domain brokers online and consider reaching out to them for financial support. It’s a creative but potentially lucrative way to secure funding for your organization.

5. Organize a Walk-a-Thon

Walk-a-thons are a fun and healthy way to raise money while bringing people together. You can collect donations from participants and seek in-kind support from local #businesses. Vendor fees from setting up booths during the event can also contribute to your fundraising efforts.

6. Host a Virtual Concert

Virtual concerts can be a powerful way to raise funds, especially if you can get local celebrities or influencers involved. Many artists and content creators are eager to give back to their communities, and a virtual concert can quickly generate excitement for your cause. You can sell tickets, collect donations, and even offer sponsorship opportunities.

7. Engage Authors and Content Creators

Authors and content creators often look for ways to give back. Reach out to them and request donations of autographed copies of their books, which can be auctioned off with the proceeds going to your organization. Alternatively, encourage content creators to produce material related to helping underserved communities and donate the proceeds to your cause.

These seven strategies can be a game-changer for your community-based organization. With a little creativity and persistence, you’ll be able to secure the funding you need to continue making a difference. I’d also like to take a moment to thank the millions of volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting organizations like yours.

Final Thought

As Hank Rosso once said, “Fundraising is the gentle art of teaching the joy of giving.” Remember, fundraising isn’t just about asking for money—it’s about inspiring people to join you in making the world a better place.