LAM Action - How to run a Fundraising Event or Activity
1. HAVE AN IDEA
Come up with an idea for your event. If this is your first event keep things simple. Below is a list of possible events. Decide on the date, time, venue* and size of your activity. *(Venue: many venues will charge a lower rate for charity events.)
2. ENLIST HELPERS
Call upon the help of as many people as you can. You can never have enough helpers – you may need to assign specific roles to individuals, such as treasurer, raffle organiser etc.
3. HAVE A TIME PLAN
It is important to have planning meetings to organise an event. Give yourself plenty of time and think carefully about how to manage and market the event. Set milestone dates by which specific steps will be taken.
4. KNOW YOUR MESSAGE
Whether you are a LAM patient or a family member or friend of someone with LAM, you should be prepared to describe - simply - LAM to your volunteers, sponsors and donors. Also, you should be prepared to explain why you are fundraising for the cause. The more personal the message the better. But be comfortable with what you have to say. Also, ask the charity if they have information brochures or other materials that you can use.
5. SPONSORS
Set a goal of the amount you would like to raise. This is always a good motivator for an event. Check for possible sponsors; some firms will make a donation to cover the costs of your event, others will match the amount raised, others will provide services or materials rather than money. Allow for costs – hire of venue, marketing costs, refreshments etc. Before approaching business sponsors, check with LAM Action to determine whether the business has been approached and/or donated in the past.
6. SAFE AND SOUND
Remember to always consider the safety or your team and participants. Taking part in high-risk activities is not advisable and it is important to ensure the safety of your venue for events. It may be necessary to take out insurance for certain activities.
7. YOUR LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
There are a number of laws and regulations relating to how people can fundraise for charity. It is essential that you comply with these rules. If you are uncertain, contact the LAM office or check out the publications on the Charity Commission website.
8. ADVERTISING AND MARKETING
Don’t forget to promote your event as much as possible. Advertising in local papers is good, but can be expensive. Try local shops, posters, fliers, word of mouth.
9. HAVE FUN!!
Most importantly have fun! More people are likely to attend an event that is fun too!
Please let us know if you are running a fundraising activity to raise money for LAM Action, so that we can offer support, encouragement and congratulations for your efforts.
FUNDRAISING IDEAS
Coffee Morning, Summer Fayre, Garden Party, Bring and Buy Sale, Auction of Promises, Quiz Night, Race Night, Bingo Night, Casino Night, Safari Supper, Concert, Jumble Sale, Cake Sale, Barn Dance, Car Wash, Art and Craft Fair, Dog Walking, Ironing, Karaoke Night, Office Jeans DayLine-Dancing, Mufti-Day, Easter Egg Hunt, Pancake Race, Pyjama Party, Market Stall, Swear Box, Raffle, Tombola, Cheese and Wine Tasting, Read-A-Thon, Garage Sale, Disco, Car Boot Sale, Book Sale, Baby-Sitting, Barbecue, Bazaar, Fun-Run, Balloon Race, Tea Party, Sponsored Cycle, Recipe Swap.
