12 May 2010 1 Comment
Fundraiser Spotlight: Heather Rine for the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area
Most of our Fundraiser Spotlights are about fundraisers running marathons, or sometimes performing other mindblowing feats of athletic ability. But most of us don’t run across countries or paddle across major oceans – and we still want to do our best to raise money for the causes important to us.
Heather Rine is doing something within the reach of many more fundraisers – she’s participating in the 5k Run/Walk for the Animals, benefitting the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area. Her page first came to our attention because of the adorable picture she chose to use – a kitten with a pirate eyepatch sipping a pint of Guinness – but we found out that, just like all our fundraisers, she has a compelling reason to want to raise money, a strong social network ready to help, and a great nonprofit benefitting from her fundraising. And don’t worry – no cats were harmed or intoxicated in the making of these photos!
Why is raising money for this cause important to you?
The animal shelter has taken in animals during a time when the economy has caused people to cut back to the point of getting rid of their pets in order to continue to afford to live themselves. This has caused a great influx of animals and a greater need for space to house them. The shelter is raising money to build an addition to help the animals rather than euthanize them.
What has surprised you about your fundraising experience?
I initially hoped to raise the $30 minimum, thinking even $30 could help. I was surprised to raise over $200! And I have had people ask if they could walk with me. That really surprised me, because I didn’t ask for any volunteers. I was ready to walk by myself.
What has been the most challenging?
I think just remembering to keep reaching out to people, even as you go beyond your goal, was the most challenging thing. You don’t want to bug people, but you can’t give up on them. Maybe they don’t donate initially because it’s bad timing, or they don’t have money to donate at the time, but it doesn’t mean they’re not interested. Just keeping people aware that you are still collecting without seeming pushy is a fine line.
Are you fundraising or participating in the event with friends or family?
Most of my family, friends and my boyfriend’s family have donated. And I will be walking with my family as well as a few friends from work.
How has FirstGiving helped with your fundraising?
FirstGiving made it easy to contact people through emails and Facebook. It also made it easy to create the webpage and bring people’s attention to the cause.
(and, of course…) What made you choose the picture on your fundraising page?
I have a cat named Guinness and I’m originally from overseas. When I saw the picture of the cat drinking Guinness, I thought it just made purrrfect sense!
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Heather, and good luck – we’re sure you’ll continue to surpass your goals!
Remember, your nonprofits still appreciate all the help you can give them – even if you’re not breaking world records or making history, you can still make a difference by participating in their events and reaching out to your friends and family for donations, and you may even surprise yourself with how much of a difference you can make. If you would like to help Heather make a difference for local animals, please visit her fundraising page.
Jos Myers
May 12, 2010 @ 17:36:22
Good luck in your efforts! Raising $200 on your own is a great accomplishment- I’ve seen people have hard planned events that raise less. That picture is super-cute!