19 Jan 2012 No Comments
What exactly is grassroots fundraising?
You often hear the term “grassroots” being thrown around pretty liberally and many times individuals do not quite understand what it encompasses. Don’t worry, there won’t be a follow up test but we thought we’d do our part to clear the air.
What is grassroots fundraising?
‘Grassroots fundraising’ is fundraising that happens outside the scope of a non profit’s operations. It is when an individual, like yourself, decides to raise funds for a cause that is close to their heart, with the help of friends and family, but don’t necessarily have an affiliation with said organization. Some like to think of this as “Do It Yourself” fundraising. There are many opportunities and a few challenges in grassroots fundraising so it is important to understand it well.
Here are a few examples of grassroots fundraising
● A family member is running in a marathon who isn’t directly affiliated with a non profit but wants to collect donations for the organization anyway.
● A friend is celebrating a personal event like a birthday or wedding, and is asking for donations in lieu of gifts.
● A neighbor who felt strongly about an organization or cause has passed away, and their family or friends have set up a page for donations in their memory.
● A colleague has a creative idea for fundraising – maybe they’ll be shaving their head, or walking across their state – that isn’t something a non profit organization is officially asking people to do.
Don’t be afraid of getting creative
From what you can gather above, there are many opportunities to do a little grassroots fundraising. The possibilities are endless and are only limited to your imagination. Leverage your talents and see how creative your fundraising can get! Feel like having a backyard BBQ? How about a weekend concert in your mom’s basement? Grandma just baked a batch of her famous strudel? We smell a bake sale :)
There are always going to be a few challenges
With anything, there is a way to do it right and a way to do it wrong. The Internet has opened up possibility but simultaneously created more concerns. As self publishers, brands, and fundraisers, we must align ourselves with these often well established non profit brands. Though these non-profits welcome support, the Internet opens them up. Some non-profits will be wary of letting other’s promote and raise donations on their behalf. Be smart, don’t jeopardize yourself/the non profit, and all should be fine. Have fun!
Download: Grassroots Fundraising 101
Photo courtesy of Adrian Scottow 2010
