Brainstorming grassroots fundraising ideas

As we touched upon in our latest post, grassroots fundraising lends itself to creativity. Here are just a few fundraising tips to get those creative juices flowing.

Use your talents

Everyone has a talent and please don’t tell us you don’t, because we know you do. Are you a rock star on the guitar? A seasoned marathon runner? Have a knack for pastries? If you can produce something above average, consider it an opportunity. For the musically gifted, consider hosting a house concert or an all-star jam session. Part of a casual network of softball dads? What about hosting a tournament where ticket sales and registration fees go to an organization of your choice. For the culinary gifted, no one in their deepest of hearts think bake sales are “played out.” Even those who cover the exploits of the exact opposite of culinary genius have figured out a way to find donations. Cake Wrecks (the website’s name explains it all) has raised a significant amount through their unique donations strategy.

Take advantage of the season and geography

Mother Nature already gives us so much but she is ready to give us more; grassroots fundraising opportunities. The winter season is perfect for Polar Plunges, like the Special Olympics Virginia’s Polar Plunge Festival. Take advantage of seasonal and/or geographical demand for your cause.

Leverage the year’s notable events

Every year we all look forward to the year’s notable events. Be it the Super Bowl, the Grammys, or the State of the Union Address just to name a few, these events can be turned into opportunities. Why not donate part of your Oscar pool to charity? Remember how the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election saw a surge in the grassroots fundraising movement? Consider that a turning point in fundraising culture.

Transform everyday events into opportunities

Similar to our previous category, this strategy revolves around everyday moments. A little break in the old routine is needed once in a while anyway. There are many everyday moments that can be transformed into an opportunity. Birthdays, anniversaries, and other gift giving moments are fantastic moments to ask for donations to your favorite non profit. Monthly poker nights, informal wine tastings, and weekly religious ceremonies can all be converted into grassroots fundraising opportunities as well. We’re sure you can think of some more!

Download: Make the most of your Grassroots Fundraising

Photo Courtesy of Michelle Bailey 2008