Fundraising Resources
Make a Difference for Kids
Ready to make a powerful impact for children affected by cancer and blood disorders? Here are some ideas and best practices to help you shine bright and reach your fundraising goals.
Get inspired with these fun and impactful ways to raise funds:
- Host a “Gold Out” Event: Encourage your school, sports team, workplace, or community group to wear gold (the color for childhood cancer awareness). Use this vibrant display to raise funds and honor someone you know affected by childhood cancer.
- Organize an Online Fundraiser: Leverage the power of your network! Use social media or online platforms to share your personal story and explain why supporting Children's Minnesota's Cancer and Blood Disorders Program is important to you. Ask friends, family, and colleagues to donate directly to your page.
- Create a DIY Fundraiser: Turn your passion into purpose! Host an event based on something you love, like a bake sale, talent show, or selling handmade items (e.g., 3-D prints, friendship bracelets, lemonade).
Once you have an idea, follow these tips to supercharge your fundraising efforts and check out the Shine Bright toolkit for additional resources to illuminate your path!
1.
Set up your fundraising page.
This is your space to share your story, images, and fundraising progress with your friends and family. Share your story and why supporting Children’s Minnesota and Shine Bright for Kids is important to you.
2.
Set a fundraising goal.
Share that goal with your friends and family and ask them to help you reach it. Real time progress is shown on the page’s thermometer.
3.
Ask early. Ask more than once.
You can’t start reaching out too soon. Not every communication has to focus on asking for money. But every communication can include the option to give. Did you reach a milestone? That’s inspiring. Let supporters know.
4.
Ask everyone.
Think about your inner circle and reach out to your closest loved ones and friends first. Then, think about others who are frequent flyers in your life (extended family, colleagues, friends you work out with, youth sports teams/activities).
5.
Send emails.
There are email templates already created for you. Just click on the Email tab when you’re logged into your fundraising page.
6.
Get social.
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. Share the link to your fundraising page on social media and ask your friends and family to support you.
7.
Thank your donors.
A handwritten note goes a long way. You can also thank your donors via social media or email (make sure you tag them, it expands the reach of who sees it.) It matters, and it might even inspire your donor to give again or ask others to support your efforts.
8.
Ask about matching gifts.
Many employers and companies will match their employees’ donations. Let your supporters know about this opportunity to double their impact!
9.
Make it easy.
Always include a link to your fundraising page. Add it to your personal email signature or your profile on social media.