Fundraising Ideas and Help

1) Set up your own online fundraising page.

You will receive an email confirmation that your page has been created. Keep that email! And note the URL of your fundraising page to include in communications.

2) Send an email to everyone you know to gain support!

• One month before the event: Use this sample letter – fill in the blanks and personalize. *Include a photo if possible.
• A week or so before the event: Send a second note – fill in the blanks and personalize. People get busy and forget – they may need a reminder!
• Just after your event: Send a final letter to everybody - include highlights from your event, the amount of money you raised, etc. Include photos. Provide them with a final opportunity to make a tax-deductible contribution.

3) Add a message to your email signature.

"I'm (add your sport) to bring safe drinking water to the world. Please support me at (insert the URL of your fundraising page)."

4) Print out our pledge form for offline fundraising. *Remember, no amount is too small – it all counts!

• Upon completing your event, collect pledges from each donor. 
• Checks should be made to "Blue Planet Run." Your name should be noted on the check so we know whom the money is supporting.
• For cash, send us a list of: donors' names, $ amount, addresses and emails so we can send them a tax receipt. Keep the cash; send us one check made out to "Blue Planet Run" to cover that amount.
• Mail us the total amount enclosed along with a copy of the pledge form and cash donors' info.

5) Social Networking Pages. Describe your training, event and support for Blue Planet Run on Facebook, MySpace or other online community areas.

• Insert the URL of your fundraising page.
• Include a photo of our water projects from our Artwork Resource Kit
  

6) Donation Jar/Box/Cans. Decorate a jar/box or can using images from our Artwork Resource Kit.

• Place your fundraising letter nearby so people can learn more about your event.
• Ask family, friends, etc. to put a jar/box/can on their desk at work.
• Ask local merchants to sponsor you by putting a jar/box/can next to the cash register.
• Bring a jar/box/can to dinners, bbqs, birthday parties, or any social event where your friends or family gather.

7) Employer Sponsorships.

Ask friends and family to speak with their employers about sponsoring you or matching their donations.