Garage sales are a way to make money as an individual, as a neighborhood, or as an organization. It does require a great deal of work and preparation as we have outlined in "Fundraising 101", but it can be fun and profitable. The following advise from Nikki Willhite will add additional points. You must advertise your garage sale if you want people to come. Place ads in the paper, and post your signs in prominent places a few days before the sale. Use balloons to draw people to your home.
Get lots of help. You need other eyes and hands when it gets busy.
Try and get your neighbors to join with you. Multi-family garage sales are better attended.
Display your items as attractively as possible. Take the time to clean, dust and mend if needed. Bring as much as you can to eye level, as people don't like to bend. Keep your items organized and sorted so shoppers can quickly find what they want. If you are selling clothing, string ropes or chain to hang clothes.
Mark all items with the prices clearly visible, as some people don't like to ask. When someone makes you an offer, if you don't like it counter with another offer.
Keep your money close to you. Wear a purse across your body or a fanny pack. Have plenty of change. If you decide to take checks, ask for ID, and look to see how high the check number is. This can be an indication of stability, although some banks now let you choose your own beginning check number when you open a new account.
Do not take large bills that require you giving someone a lot of change. If someone gives you a hundred dollar bill that is not real, and buys one small item, you will give away all your profit. This is a known "garage sale scam."
Be realistic in your pricing. For large items in good condition, a good rule of thumb is to charge half the cost of what if would cost new.
If someone makes you an offer at the beginning of your sale that you are not ready to take, ask for his/her phone #. You can always call them later and accept their offer.
Have fun, make money, and find those bargains!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
FUNDRAISING FUN 101
As you can see, we have been away an extented period of time. Much of that time has been getting our ebook ready for distribution. It is now available and can be ordered by clicking on the book on this blog. We will be reviewing some of the information in the book in future blogs. Welcome and good fundraising.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
8 Places to Fundraise
This articDo you want to fundraise but don't know where to begin? Here are eight everyday places you can go to raise money for your charitable cause, along with tips for how to get started.
Home
Charity begins at home and so, too, can your fundraising ideas. Speak to your family about fundraising ideas, or contact everyone in your address book and ask for donations. You can make a lot of money for charity without having to leave the house.
Work
Charity appeals help to break up an otherwise monotonous workday. Talk to your supervisor (you may also need to get permission from your corporate office first) and organise a fundraising event at work. See if you can get your managers involved too; they'll be able to motivate co-workers too.
School
Schools are always looking for ways to engage students and get them interested in social causes. Speak to your headmaster about fundraising at the school. You can also ask to use school space to hold a charity event like a silent auction or a dance.
Church
Most churches are very cognizant of their parishioners' lives and interests. Speak to your church leader or vicar and ask them to make an announcement about your charity before services conclude. You can even ask that they let you use church space to hold a fundraising meeting or event.
Clubs
Like schools, clubs are used to doing their own fundraising but that's no reason you can't fundraise for your own cause too. Speak to your club supervisor (it might be a team captain or club president) and get their permission to introduce your club to your fundraising cause. Because you're already a close-knit group, chances are they'll be happy to pitch in and help.
Community
Fundraising in your community offers many rich opportunities. Do a door-to-door collection, network with local businesses, or go into a community space (like a recreation centre) and share your cause with people. It's a great way to spread the word and fundraise too.
Street
In most areas, you need a licence to conduct street fundraising, but that's it. The rest is up to you - go up to people, tell them about your cause, sing a song, do a dance; be respectful, but do whatever it takes to get donations and bring positive attention to your charity or group.
Internet
Internet fundraising has become very popular in recent years. Use social media sites like Facebook and fundraising tools like JustGiving to organise an Internet fundraising campaign for your charity. It's easy to make connections and track your donations with Internet fundraising.
le by Sharon Walls outlines places to fundraise.
Home
Charity begins at home and so, too, can your fundraising ideas. Speak to your family about fundraising ideas, or contact everyone in your address book and ask for donations. You can make a lot of money for charity without having to leave the house.
Work
Charity appeals help to break up an otherwise monotonous workday. Talk to your supervisor (you may also need to get permission from your corporate office first) and organise a fundraising event at work. See if you can get your managers involved too; they'll be able to motivate co-workers too.
School
Schools are always looking for ways to engage students and get them interested in social causes. Speak to your headmaster about fundraising at the school. You can also ask to use school space to hold a charity event like a silent auction or a dance.
Church
Most churches are very cognizant of their parishioners' lives and interests. Speak to your church leader or vicar and ask them to make an announcement about your charity before services conclude. You can even ask that they let you use church space to hold a fundraising meeting or event.
Clubs
Like schools, clubs are used to doing their own fundraising but that's no reason you can't fundraise for your own cause too. Speak to your club supervisor (it might be a team captain or club president) and get their permission to introduce your club to your fundraising cause. Because you're already a close-knit group, chances are they'll be happy to pitch in and help.
Community
Fundraising in your community offers many rich opportunities. Do a door-to-door collection, network with local businesses, or go into a community space (like a recreation centre) and share your cause with people. It's a great way to spread the word and fundraise too.
Street
In most areas, you need a licence to conduct street fundraising, but that's it. The rest is up to you - go up to people, tell them about your cause, sing a song, do a dance; be respectful, but do whatever it takes to get donations and bring positive attention to your charity or group.
Internet
Internet fundraising has become very popular in recent years. Use social media sites like Facebook and fundraising tools like JustGiving to organise an Internet fundraising campaign for your charity. It's easy to make connections and track your donations with Internet fundraising.
le by Sharon Walls outlines places to fundraise.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Economic Climate affects Fundraising
Without doubt the recession, or credit crunch, or whatever you're calling it, means that there is less money in society. People have had to make cutbacks to their family budgets. No matter how much they would like to be able to donate more, they are restricted by personal circumstances.
Even those who haven't faced job cuts or salary reductions are saving more, the sudden economic catastrophe having made people less confident about their financial futures.
For those reasons, selecting the right fundraising event for your non-profit organization, community group or school is all the more important. The old idea of 'build it and they will come' no longer applies. Nowadays the means by which you choose to fund raise is vital to the success of that fundraising event.
Unique fundraising ideas stand out from the rest. Where so many groups and organizations need to raise funds, an idea for fundraising that is creative and original will get noticed more easily. It will help to differentiate between your idea and the many other events that are also seeking support from the same beleaguered public.
Merely flicking through last year's fundraising plan and deciding on a re-run this year is unlikely to be good enough for most non-profits. You have to up your game. Choosing a method of fundraising that will create more publicity, that will stand out in potential donors minds, that will create some enthusiasm amongst your supporters will help you to reach your fundraising targets more easily.
Of course, just accepting that you need a unique idea for fundraising isn't enough. You then have to go and create one! On our site we attempt to develop principles that will help all manner of organizations to brainstorm their way to their successful unique fundraising idea.
This article is submitted by P.J. Breen at http://non-profitplace.com
Even those who haven't faced job cuts or salary reductions are saving more, the sudden economic catastrophe having made people less confident about their financial futures.
For those reasons, selecting the right fundraising event for your non-profit organization, community group or school is all the more important. The old idea of 'build it and they will come' no longer applies. Nowadays the means by which you choose to fund raise is vital to the success of that fundraising event.
Unique fundraising ideas stand out from the rest. Where so many groups and organizations need to raise funds, an idea for fundraising that is creative and original will get noticed more easily. It will help to differentiate between your idea and the many other events that are also seeking support from the same beleaguered public.
Merely flicking through last year's fundraising plan and deciding on a re-run this year is unlikely to be good enough for most non-profits. You have to up your game. Choosing a method of fundraising that will create more publicity, that will stand out in potential donors minds, that will create some enthusiasm amongst your supporters will help you to reach your fundraising targets more easily.
Of course, just accepting that you need a unique idea for fundraising isn't enough. You then have to go and create one! On our site we attempt to develop principles that will help all manner of organizations to brainstorm their way to their successful unique fundraising idea.
This article is submitted by P.J. Breen at http://non-profitplace.com
Friday, March 19, 2010
Fundraising Thermometer
When you go to a doctor, what is the very first thing that he actually checks, besides taking your height and weight? That's right, he takes your temperature. And what does he use to take your temperature? A thermometer.
Groups that are raising money have a similar tool in fundraising thermometers. Fundraising thermometers are a very simple tool sthat consist of some sort of chart or poster that is used to measure progress against a goal your group has.
The idea of a fundraiser thermometer is not new. In the past, many groups would simply draw a big thermometer on a piece of poster board and color it in as they tallied their sales.
Nowadays though, as with almost everything else, there is a digital version that makes things much easier. The digital version is tailor made to reflect the goals of your group and can be updated as often as you need it to be, just like the old fashioned version. What makes a digital fundraising thermometer better is that you can add it to your website or even include it in emails so that everyone in your group is sure to see it.
But you may be asking yourself why this is so important. Knowing how you are doing versus your groups goals is one of the most important motivational strategies that a fundraiser group can have. If you are 5 sales short of reaching your goal, aren't you going to strive that much more to sell those 5 items?
For your free fundraising thermometer be sure and visit Go Green Fundraising.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jordan_Gottlieb
Groups that are raising money have a similar tool in fundraising thermometers. Fundraising thermometers are a very simple tool sthat consist of some sort of chart or poster that is used to measure progress against a goal your group has.
The idea of a fundraiser thermometer is not new. In the past, many groups would simply draw a big thermometer on a piece of poster board and color it in as they tallied their sales.
Nowadays though, as with almost everything else, there is a digital version that makes things much easier. The digital version is tailor made to reflect the goals of your group and can be updated as often as you need it to be, just like the old fashioned version. What makes a digital fundraising thermometer better is that you can add it to your website or even include it in emails so that everyone in your group is sure to see it.
But you may be asking yourself why this is so important. Knowing how you are doing versus your groups goals is one of the most important motivational strategies that a fundraiser group can have. If you are 5 sales short of reaching your goal, aren't you going to strive that much more to sell those 5 items?
For your free fundraising thermometer be sure and visit Go Green Fundraising.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jordan_Gottlieb
Monday, March 8, 2010
MISTAKES TO AVOID
We attended a seminar Sat. that included a section on fundraising. One area that we frequently miss when doing our fundraising planning is "what are the areas we need to think about to avoid mistakes". For example, is there adequate parking for the function? If you function requires heavy electrical load, does the facility have adequate electrical supply? Where is the fuse box? Is there a resource person to call if any problem arises in the facility you are using? A large hotel might have support staff around the clock, but a community center might not. Check out all aspects of your function prior to the beginning of the function. We had a problem at one function of setting up the credit card charge machine. It was tied to a mobile phone number, but the mobile phone wouldn't work in the building we were in. Are there public restroom facilities. If it is a large outdoor function, you might have to have portapotties. Do you need extra people to direct traffic - both of vehicles and people?? Basically, think of every step of your function and make sure the support is there to handle everything.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Casio Night
Our Kiwanis club had it's Casino night. This was a first attempt and Trinky & I only had responsibility for the silent auction as part of the fundraising activity. We had gotten about 70 silent auction items plus about 10-15 other items to be used in a raffle and live auction. We had the bid sheets made up and the program which had been printed by another member. The items in the program were listed 1 thru 70. We laid out the tables(all in a row) with the item and its bid sheet. If it was a gift certificate, we had a copy of the gift certificate made up for display. At the end of the evening, the bidding was closed and after recieving payment the items were given to the highest bidder. We made good money on the silent auction and it went very smoothly. We have sent the thank you letters which included a note that we planned the same event for next year and we hoped to have the merchants continued support. Thank you notes are very important. It gives the person the retail value of their donation and to whom the donation was made for tax purposes. Plus it lets them know how much we appreciate their support for our fundraising event.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Article from Jacob Ackart
Any group that has ever had to generate funds knows that it is hard. What's a good starting point? What kind of event will be the highest earner?
The initial step in raising money is to set a monetary target. It's a good idea to work at earning more, but each person in the group may have a certain time frame in mind to stop. Establishing a monetary target helps everybody to see an end.
The amount required will determine the event requirements. A small amount of money can be earned daily with one type of event while a larger sum may require a more events or a more considerable and time consuming event.
Occasionally groups may delay a fundraising event because they lack volunteers or financing therefore making fundraising the last item on their agenda. You cannot delay fundraising until you are financially desperate. Choose a few events to turn into annual fundraising projects and then everyone will know the event is on the calendar and can plan accordingly. In particular, this helps members who have hectic schedules to plan ahead and it allows for donations or spread out budgeting.
Some ideas for annual fundraisers, many of which are (or can be) free or low cost:
Recycling ink cartridges
Bake sale
Book fair (or other kinds of fairs)
Penny drive
Silent auction
Fun run
Game show
Candy fundraisers
While fundraising, always be mindful to keep event time under control. Many event organizers make a mistake in judgment by extending the event thinking that will increase their returns, when the reverse is often true. For the best fundraising results, the organizers must keep the program moving at a rapid pace and generating energy. If you have more than a few activities arranged prepare them separately in order to keep the event moving and with a bigger turnout.
Planners should try and gather some incentives for the volunteers. The incentives can be as straightforward a "thank you" bag or t-shirt as a reminder of the occasion but they can even be as generous as a hard cash gift or paid vacation for the highest earning volunteer. Generally, non-cash prizes or gifts work better than cash. It's not clear why that is, but it may be that the gift or prize is something that a volunteer wouldn't normally buy for themselves.
Keep in mind that a volunteer and donor database should be maintained so that future fundraising events will be less work and easier. Plus, it's always easier to get repeat volunteers and donors than to try to recruit new ones - that is, as long as they feel appreciated. To show that appreciation, don't forget gifts and/or thank you notes for your volunteers too.
Jacob Ackart is an active volunteer who's been involved in many fundraisers for non-profits, from small to large. Please visit Fund-Raising-Ideas-Center.com to get more fundraising ideas and tips.
The initial step in raising money is to set a monetary target. It's a good idea to work at earning more, but each person in the group may have a certain time frame in mind to stop. Establishing a monetary target helps everybody to see an end.
The amount required will determine the event requirements. A small amount of money can be earned daily with one type of event while a larger sum may require a more events or a more considerable and time consuming event.
Occasionally groups may delay a fundraising event because they lack volunteers or financing therefore making fundraising the last item on their agenda. You cannot delay fundraising until you are financially desperate. Choose a few events to turn into annual fundraising projects and then everyone will know the event is on the calendar and can plan accordingly. In particular, this helps members who have hectic schedules to plan ahead and it allows for donations or spread out budgeting.
Some ideas for annual fundraisers, many of which are (or can be) free or low cost:
Recycling ink cartridges
Bake sale
Book fair (or other kinds of fairs)
Penny drive
Silent auction
Fun run
Game show
Candy fundraisers
While fundraising, always be mindful to keep event time under control. Many event organizers make a mistake in judgment by extending the event thinking that will increase their returns, when the reverse is often true. For the best fundraising results, the organizers must keep the program moving at a rapid pace and generating energy. If you have more than a few activities arranged prepare them separately in order to keep the event moving and with a bigger turnout.
Planners should try and gather some incentives for the volunteers. The incentives can be as straightforward a "thank you" bag or t-shirt as a reminder of the occasion but they can even be as generous as a hard cash gift or paid vacation for the highest earning volunteer. Generally, non-cash prizes or gifts work better than cash. It's not clear why that is, but it may be that the gift or prize is something that a volunteer wouldn't normally buy for themselves.
Keep in mind that a volunteer and donor database should be maintained so that future fundraising events will be less work and easier. Plus, it's always easier to get repeat volunteers and donors than to try to recruit new ones - that is, as long as they feel appreciated. To show that appreciation, don't forget gifts and/or thank you notes for your volunteers too.
Jacob Ackart is an active volunteer who's been involved in many fundraisers for non-profits, from small to large. Please visit Fund-Raising-Ideas-Center.com to get more fundraising ideas and tips.
Friday, February 19, 2010
CHARITABLE GIVING
Fundamentally, fundraising is for charity. I recently recieved my copy of "Imprimis" which is a free publication from Hillsdale college and can be ordered for Hillsdale.edu. The article is by Adam Meyerson and should be read completely. My comments here, taken from the article, are very limited and can best be understood by reading the entire article.
Mr. Meyerson discusses early contributions to start Hillsdale College. There were lessons to be learned from that experience. 1. Throughout our history, Americans from all walks of life have given generously for charitable causes. The most generous people per unit income are the working poor. 2. Appeals are made to peoples ideals and aspirations and their religious principles. 3. The tradition of private generosity in America has always been central to our free society.
Americans are the most generous people on the earth. Last year $300 billion was given to charity. He outlines three reasons Americans are the most giving. 1. We are the most religious people of any leading modern economy. The most important determinant of charitable giving is active religious faith and observation. 2. We respect freedom. Americans don't wait for goverment or local nobleman to solve our problems, we find solutions ourselves. 3. Philanthropy is such an important part of our nations business culture. Benjamin Franklin founded the first volunteer fire dept. Andrew Carnegie founded community libraries all over the country. Bill Gates is trying to eradicate malaria.
There are threats to charitable giving. 1. One-size-fits-all governance and regulatory proposals that would limit the diversity and independence of the charitable world. 2.Congress has an obligation to ensure that philanthropic assets advance the public good. 3. Goverment should not pass laws that pick winners and losers in philanthropic giving. Our federal and state governments for their part, should respect and defend the freedom that is vital to the American tradition of generous giving.
Mr. Meyerson discusses early contributions to start Hillsdale College. There were lessons to be learned from that experience. 1. Throughout our history, Americans from all walks of life have given generously for charitable causes. The most generous people per unit income are the working poor. 2. Appeals are made to peoples ideals and aspirations and their religious principles. 3. The tradition of private generosity in America has always been central to our free society.
Americans are the most generous people on the earth. Last year $300 billion was given to charity. He outlines three reasons Americans are the most giving. 1. We are the most religious people of any leading modern economy. The most important determinant of charitable giving is active religious faith and observation. 2. We respect freedom. Americans don't wait for goverment or local nobleman to solve our problems, we find solutions ourselves. 3. Philanthropy is such an important part of our nations business culture. Benjamin Franklin founded the first volunteer fire dept. Andrew Carnegie founded community libraries all over the country. Bill Gates is trying to eradicate malaria.
There are threats to charitable giving. 1. One-size-fits-all governance and regulatory proposals that would limit the diversity and independence of the charitable world. 2.Congress has an obligation to ensure that philanthropic assets advance the public good. 3. Goverment should not pass laws that pick winners and losers in philanthropic giving. Our federal and state governments for their part, should respect and defend the freedom that is vital to the American tradition of generous giving.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
TIME LINE
After you have decided what you are going to do for a fundraiser, established a budget and set a date, it is vital that you set a TIME LINE. Write down every facet of your program. Assign a time to have each section or facet completed - both a beginng and a finish time. Then plot these on a chart with specific dates and times. As you work through the various facets, mark them off. This is especially important for your promotion program. If you follow your time line, the event will go smoothly and you will have less grey hair. Have fun.
Friday, January 29, 2010
PROMOTING A FUNCTION
When you spend a lot of time and energy to put on a fundraising function, you will recieve no benefit if no one shows up for the function. That means the function has to be promoted. Especially if it is the first time you have done this type of fundraiser. Promotion should be scheduled far in advance of the function. Your budget for promotion should be established far in advance of the function. Once you have a budget, outline the types of promotion you want to do. i.e. Newspaper adds, T.V., radio, flyers, billboards, facebook, twitter, mailings to previous and new donors. Once you have established what type of promotions you are going to do, develop a schedule. People need to be reminded more than once. Once you have your promotion program and carry it out, you can expect a good turn out and a successful fundraiser. DON'T LEAVE PROMOTION TILL THE LAST THING. THINK AHEAD.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Using Twitter in fundraising Part 2
This is the completion of the article on Twittering for fundraising by Marc Pitman.
Twitter's Not Just for Broadcasting
Be warned: Twitter is not just a tool to push your message out. The September 2008 BusinessWeek special report had a warning from H&R Block's experience: Amy Worley, who manages [H&R] Block's Twitter program, had to alter her approach. "I went in thinking Twitter was a free way to push our message out," she says. "Big mistake. We learned to listen. We started winning once we let people decide on their own about our services."
For people using Twitter, is has to be a two-way conversation. That is the genius of Twitter: you can form your very own "listening post" and hear what others are saying about the issues that affect your mission. This can help you generate ideas and tell your story better.
What About Fundraising with Twitter
Listening is one thing, but can Twitter really be used for fundraising?
Social media expert, Beth Kanter writes that people will not make a gift just because you tweet. Neither will they give because you start a blog or create a cause on. But, she points to a blog post by Avi Kaplan reporting that a Twitter idea called "Tweetsgiving" raised over $11,000 in just 48 hours!
Kaplan himself gives some great measurements on how "Tweetsgiving" spread around the world. What would it cost your organization to get over 100 press and blogger mentions in over 100 countries using traditional media? On Twitter, it was free.
But NTEN (the Nonprofit Technology Network) reminds us that Twitter isn't the point. Relationships are the point. Relationships have always been the point. The most basic of fundraising secrets is that "people give to people." Twitter is simply one more tool to help people connect with each other. Can your nonprofit afford not to explore all the tools available?
Jump In, the Twitter Stream's Warm!
Why not test it out? Setting up an account is easy and free. Twitter's more interesting if you start following people right away. Nonprofit blogger Mark Hayward (@mark_hayward on Twitter) has a list of 97-yes, 97!-people he suggests following on Twitter. Check them out and follow the people that interest you. It's ok. You're not being invasive or nosey. You are supposed to follow people.
Other ways to find people that work in your field are tools like Search.Twitter.com or Twellow. Search "fundraising" or "nonprofit" or whatever else you're interested in. Whatever your cause is, you can search on to see who is talking about your cause. Simply follow those you find interesting and join in the conversation that's already going on. At first, you'll probably want to just listen. It's amazing how just listening will help you tell your nonprofit's story.
It's as Simple as Having a Conversation
Twitter's Not Just for Broadcasting
Be warned: Twitter is not just a tool to push your message out. The September 2008 BusinessWeek special report had a warning from H&R Block's experience: Amy Worley, who manages [H&R] Block's Twitter program, had to alter her approach. "I went in thinking Twitter was a free way to push our message out," she says. "Big mistake. We learned to listen. We started winning once we let people decide on their own about our services."
For people using Twitter, is has to be a two-way conversation. That is the genius of Twitter: you can form your very own "listening post" and hear what others are saying about the issues that affect your mission. This can help you generate ideas and tell your story better.
What About Fundraising with Twitter
Listening is one thing, but can Twitter really be used for fundraising?
Social media expert, Beth Kanter writes that people will not make a gift just because you tweet. Neither will they give because you start a blog or create a cause on. But, she points to a blog post by Avi Kaplan reporting that a Twitter idea called "Tweetsgiving" raised over $11,000 in just 48 hours!
Kaplan himself gives some great measurements on how "Tweetsgiving" spread around the world. What would it cost your organization to get over 100 press and blogger mentions in over 100 countries using traditional media? On Twitter, it was free.
But NTEN (the Nonprofit Technology Network) reminds us that Twitter isn't the point. Relationships are the point. Relationships have always been the point. The most basic of fundraising secrets is that "people give to people." Twitter is simply one more tool to help people connect with each other. Can your nonprofit afford not to explore all the tools available?
Jump In, the Twitter Stream's Warm!
Why not test it out? Setting up an account is easy and free. Twitter's more interesting if you start following people right away. Nonprofit blogger Mark Hayward (@mark_hayward on Twitter) has a list of 97-yes, 97!-people he suggests following on Twitter. Check them out and follow the people that interest you. It's ok. You're not being invasive or nosey. You are supposed to follow people.
Other ways to find people that work in your field are tools like Search.Twitter.com or Twellow. Search "fundraising" or "nonprofit" or whatever else you're interested in. Whatever your cause is, you can search on to see who is talking about your cause. Simply follow those you find interesting and join in the conversation that's already going on. At first, you'll probably want to just listen. It's amazing how just listening will help you tell your nonprofit's story.
It's as Simple as Having a Conversation
Monday, January 25, 2010
Using Twitter in fundraising
This is a two part posting from an article by Marc Pitman. Add it to your fundraising ideas and have fun.
Twitter is a great free tool that can transform your approach to fundraising. And in a time of economic uncertainty, a free tool is a welcome help!
Twitter: A Brief Introduction
At its most basic level, Twitter is called "microblogging." Users are allowed 140 characters to answer the main question on the Twitter home page: "What are you doing now?" When you first start to tweet, it feels really odd. Why would you share what you're eating? Why would anyone care? It seems like it is only useful for narcissistic people or those trying to waste time. But people do. And the conversations get even better when you start answering a question like "What are you focusing on?"
People use Twitter to ask questions, follow people that are interesting, promote links to various websites, share news stories, to coordinate events during conferences. Forbes reports that people are even using Twitter to provide real-time disaster relief information.
Twitter for Fundraising
From a fundraising perspective, Twitter is an amazing way to engage donors and potential donors. One of the hardest things to do as a fundraiser is to maintain relationships. Twitter allows you to do that...right in the midst of your normal every day routine.
You can meet people all over the world that might be interested in your cause.
You can hear what people are really thinking about a wide variety of issues.
You can follow other fundraisers and get great real-time advice.
You can even promote traffic to your website or those of your friends.
Better still, if you can make your comments effectively understood in 140 characters, think about how all your fundraising writing will improve! You are forced to be succinct and understandable!
Tools like TwitterFeed automatically broadcast your blog posts through your Twitter account. Then your blog posts reach both those subscribed to your RSS feed and those following you on Twitter. And if anyone of them like it, they may "retweet" it, broadcasting to the people that follow them.
Twitter is a great free tool that can transform your approach to fundraising. And in a time of economic uncertainty, a free tool is a welcome help!
Twitter: A Brief Introduction
At its most basic level, Twitter is called "microblogging." Users are allowed 140 characters to answer the main question on the Twitter home page: "What are you doing now?" When you first start to tweet, it feels really odd. Why would you share what you're eating? Why would anyone care? It seems like it is only useful for narcissistic people or those trying to waste time. But people do. And the conversations get even better when you start answering a question like "What are you focusing on?"
People use Twitter to ask questions, follow people that are interesting, promote links to various websites, share news stories, to coordinate events during conferences. Forbes reports that people are even using Twitter to provide real-time disaster relief information.
Twitter for Fundraising
From a fundraising perspective, Twitter is an amazing way to engage donors and potential donors. One of the hardest things to do as a fundraiser is to maintain relationships. Twitter allows you to do that...right in the midst of your normal every day routine.
You can meet people all over the world that might be interested in your cause.
You can hear what people are really thinking about a wide variety of issues.
You can follow other fundraisers and get great real-time advice.
You can even promote traffic to your website or those of your friends.
Better still, if you can make your comments effectively understood in 140 characters, think about how all your fundraising writing will improve! You are forced to be succinct and understandable!
Tools like TwitterFeed automatically broadcast your blog posts through your Twitter account. Then your blog posts reach both those subscribed to your RSS feed and those following you on Twitter. And if anyone of them like it, they may "retweet" it, broadcasting to the people that follow them.
Friday, January 22, 2010
PLUSH TOYS
FollWhen it comes to fundraising, your school has done it all: popcorn, candy, cookbooks, wrapping paper, cookie dough...the list is endless. Now you're looking for something unique to add to your sales arsenal. Custom-made plush toys are versatile, creative products you'll be proud to sell!
Why Should You Choose Plush?
When you choose a fundraising product, you're choosing an item that represents your school. You want it to be high-quality and attractive. A stuffed toy replica of your school's mascot appeals to your customers' emotional connection to your school, through nostalgia or school spirit. And you're not limited to a mascot. Your plush toy can take the form of sports equipment, musical instruments, a school bus, lunch box-let your imagination run wild! A plush doll is very appealing to children, which broadens your potential customer base beyond the adults fundraisers typically target. It also attracts attention. You may have had the experience of beginning your sales campaign right after another school or organization finishes selling the same product or, worse, finding yourself competing with the same product during the same sales period. When you sell an original stuffed toy, you'll stand out amongst the competition. You'll also find that your toy lends itself to all kinds of sales opportunities beyond the traditional two-week campaign. Unlike other sales products, it will never go stale or out of style.
Fundraising With Your Custom-Made Plush Toy
You'll want to include your custom plush toy in your traditional fundraiser. But don't stop there. Many organizations have several sales campaigns per year. No matter what you choose to sell-candy, magazines, pies-include your toy as an additional item. Sell it at sports events, when school spirit is high. Offer it for sale at carnivals, festivals, and programs when parents, grandparents, and younger children attend. Keep a supply on hand at your school's supply store, and if your group sells flowers or other items for special days, include your toy as another option. You may wish to connect the proceeds from your toy sales to a special scholarship fund or school improvement project to encourage sales. Another potential use for your toy is as a sales incentive during your fundraiser, or as a prize for student achievement. Be sure to price your toy so that it's enticingly affordable, while still providing a profit.
Choosing Your Plush Toy
First, think about what you want your toy to be. Pick a design that's simple and that truly represents your school or organization. When searching for a company to manufacture your product, look for a company that will work closely with you during the design process, and which provides a gallery of examples similar to what you want your finished toy to look like. Ensure your toy will be made with safe, durable materials and quality craftsmanship. Always check company references. Select a business with a great reputation for reliability and customer service, as you'll hopefully have a successful working relationship with them for years to come.
Raise school spirit and fundraising profits with a unique, attractive custom-made plush toy!
Rob E Bishop invites you to bring your stuffed toy invention idea to his website at CustomPlushToys.com where you can learn how to design, create and sell your own stuffed toy idea. Download his free report "Don't Get Ripped Off" to discover the secrets of how to navigate the dangers in making your toy idea successful.
ow up with this article and make money for your schoo.
Why Should You Choose Plush?
When you choose a fundraising product, you're choosing an item that represents your school. You want it to be high-quality and attractive. A stuffed toy replica of your school's mascot appeals to your customers' emotional connection to your school, through nostalgia or school spirit. And you're not limited to a mascot. Your plush toy can take the form of sports equipment, musical instruments, a school bus, lunch box-let your imagination run wild! A plush doll is very appealing to children, which broadens your potential customer base beyond the adults fundraisers typically target. It also attracts attention. You may have had the experience of beginning your sales campaign right after another school or organization finishes selling the same product or, worse, finding yourself competing with the same product during the same sales period. When you sell an original stuffed toy, you'll stand out amongst the competition. You'll also find that your toy lends itself to all kinds of sales opportunities beyond the traditional two-week campaign. Unlike other sales products, it will never go stale or out of style.
Fundraising With Your Custom-Made Plush Toy
You'll want to include your custom plush toy in your traditional fundraiser. But don't stop there. Many organizations have several sales campaigns per year. No matter what you choose to sell-candy, magazines, pies-include your toy as an additional item. Sell it at sports events, when school spirit is high. Offer it for sale at carnivals, festivals, and programs when parents, grandparents, and younger children attend. Keep a supply on hand at your school's supply store, and if your group sells flowers or other items for special days, include your toy as another option. You may wish to connect the proceeds from your toy sales to a special scholarship fund or school improvement project to encourage sales. Another potential use for your toy is as a sales incentive during your fundraiser, or as a prize for student achievement. Be sure to price your toy so that it's enticingly affordable, while still providing a profit.
Choosing Your Plush Toy
First, think about what you want your toy to be. Pick a design that's simple and that truly represents your school or organization. When searching for a company to manufacture your product, look for a company that will work closely with you during the design process, and which provides a gallery of examples similar to what you want your finished toy to look like. Ensure your toy will be made with safe, durable materials and quality craftsmanship. Always check company references. Select a business with a great reputation for reliability and customer service, as you'll hopefully have a successful working relationship with them for years to come.
Raise school spirit and fundraising profits with a unique, attractive custom-made plush toy!
Rob E Bishop invites you to bring your stuffed toy invention idea to his website at CustomPlushToys.com where you can learn how to design, create and sell your own stuffed toy idea. Download his free report "Don't Get Ripped Off" to discover the secrets of how to navigate the dangers in making your toy idea successful.
ow up with this article and make money for your schoo.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Cautious approach to disaster fundraising
The following article by Tom Newsome is appropriate for the current situation in Haiti. IGenerosity is a human trait shared by every culture in every country across the planet. Unfortunately, greed, corruption and fraud are just as common. It's a sad observation that anytime a world crisis occurs, thieves around the world are prepared to pounce on those who want to lend a helping hand. A little vigilance and research can ensure your donation is falling into the right hands.
Always be cautious when approached by an unknown charity or organization claiming to be collecting funds for a recent tragedy. Typically organizations with any degree of credibility will have a name you easily recognize. This is where a little extra vigilance comes in handy. Verify the name is exactly the same. It is not uncommon for those attempting to commit fraud to use names very similar to actual emergency or charity organizations.
If you are confronted face to face, there are few things you can quickly do to ascertain the legitimacy of the organization. First, are they conducting business in a highly visible and public area? Second, are they providing documentation regarding their organization and does it have recognizable logos or branding associated with the organization they claim to represent? Third, are they providing or at least offering proper receipts for donations? Finally, if there is any indication they only desire cash donations you should walk away.
If contacted by phone, be aware that this is the most typical operation for fraudsters. The majority of legitimate fund raising organizations will not employ telephone campaigns to raise funds in this manner. Again, pay attention to the organization's name. A quick way to determine if the organization is real is to ask for their charity tax identification number. Another method is to ask them to send you hard copy details regarding the campaign through the mail. If you're dealing with criminals, they will usually end the conversation as quickly as they can. You can also ask them for a web site address with contact information so you can do some research and then make a decision.
Also be aware that many organizations outsource telephone fundraising to companies with employees who may receive commissions for obtaining donations. If the demeanor of the individual you are speaking with becomes abusive or rude, hang up immediately and report the incident to your local police. Typically these operations focus on specific regions and while you may only have contact with them once, hundreds or thousands of people in your area may have had similar encounters. The only way law enforcement agencies can intervene is if they have enough information to warrant action.
If contacted be email, you should approach it with a high level of skepticism. It is a safe assumption that nearly 99.9% of all charity email solicitations are fraudulent. This is not to say legitimate organizations will not contact you via email, but they will rarely if ever contact an individual who has never made a previous donation. This is especially true for "thank-you" or "follow-up" emails you may receive. If you don't recall making a donation to that organization, do not respond to the email.
Always ask how your donation will be used. Don't be afraid to ask pointed questions. If they are a legitimate organization, they will understand your apprehension and do what they can to give you as much information as possible.
t is great to be charitable. Just be careful.
Always be cautious when approached by an unknown charity or organization claiming to be collecting funds for a recent tragedy. Typically organizations with any degree of credibility will have a name you easily recognize. This is where a little extra vigilance comes in handy. Verify the name is exactly the same. It is not uncommon for those attempting to commit fraud to use names very similar to actual emergency or charity organizations.
If you are confronted face to face, there are few things you can quickly do to ascertain the legitimacy of the organization. First, are they conducting business in a highly visible and public area? Second, are they providing documentation regarding their organization and does it have recognizable logos or branding associated with the organization they claim to represent? Third, are they providing or at least offering proper receipts for donations? Finally, if there is any indication they only desire cash donations you should walk away.
If contacted by phone, be aware that this is the most typical operation for fraudsters. The majority of legitimate fund raising organizations will not employ telephone campaigns to raise funds in this manner. Again, pay attention to the organization's name. A quick way to determine if the organization is real is to ask for their charity tax identification number. Another method is to ask them to send you hard copy details regarding the campaign through the mail. If you're dealing with criminals, they will usually end the conversation as quickly as they can. You can also ask them for a web site address with contact information so you can do some research and then make a decision.
Also be aware that many organizations outsource telephone fundraising to companies with employees who may receive commissions for obtaining donations. If the demeanor of the individual you are speaking with becomes abusive or rude, hang up immediately and report the incident to your local police. Typically these operations focus on specific regions and while you may only have contact with them once, hundreds or thousands of people in your area may have had similar encounters. The only way law enforcement agencies can intervene is if they have enough information to warrant action.
If contacted be email, you should approach it with a high level of skepticism. It is a safe assumption that nearly 99.9% of all charity email solicitations are fraudulent. This is not to say legitimate organizations will not contact you via email, but they will rarely if ever contact an individual who has never made a previous donation. This is especially true for "thank-you" or "follow-up" emails you may receive. If you don't recall making a donation to that organization, do not respond to the email.
Always ask how your donation will be used. Don't be afraid to ask pointed questions. If they are a legitimate organization, they will understand your apprehension and do what they can to give you as much information as possible.
t is great to be charitable. Just be careful.
Monday, January 18, 2010
FUNDRAISING FUN 101(CONT.)
TYPES OF FUNDRAISERS:
1. Auctions:
Silent
Live
2. Golf outings
3. Stay at home events
4. Raffles
Reverse
Regular
Bag
5. Garage sales
6. Tour of Homes
7. Sell an item
8. Casino night
9. Walkathon/Bike-athon
10. Off the Wall
11.. Festival of Trees
Miscellaneous
a. Car Wash
b. Church or Community Bazaar
c. School carnivals
d. Concession stands
e. Cake walks
f. Treasure Chest – this is an auction item where an item
of value is placed into the treasure chest and then bid on.
g. Christmas tree sale
Mini fundraisers
h. Heads & tails
i. Take a chance
j. What is in your purse or pocket
k. Save the change
l. Money honey
m. Buy a brick or chair, etc., and place your name on it.
This list covers most of the types of fundraisers. There are modification or ramifications of several of them Use your imagination. Each one will be described in more detail in the near future, and in our new book.
1. Auctions:
Silent
Live
2. Golf outings
3. Stay at home events
4. Raffles
Reverse
Regular
Bag
5. Garage sales
6. Tour of Homes
7. Sell an item
8. Casino night
9. Walkathon/Bike-athon
10. Off the Wall
11.. Festival of Trees
Miscellaneous
a. Car Wash
b. Church or Community Bazaar
c. School carnivals
d. Concession stands
e. Cake walks
f. Treasure Chest – this is an auction item where an item
of value is placed into the treasure chest and then bid on.
g. Christmas tree sale
Mini fundraisers
h. Heads & tails
i. Take a chance
j. What is in your purse or pocket
k. Save the change
l. Money honey
m. Buy a brick or chair, etc., and place your name on it.
This list covers most of the types of fundraisers. There are modification or ramifications of several of them Use your imagination. Each one will be described in more detail in the near future, and in our new book.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
FUNDRAISING FUN 101(CONT.)
Scheduling: Schedule the event so it doesn’t conflict with a major
occurrence such as the super-bowl, a local major event, or the
United Way campaign.
When one is arranging the evening, you must address the issue of alcohol. It is good in many fundraisers(i.e. auctions, raffles, etc.) for people to have a few drinks so they are mellow and more apt. to bid better on items. If this is what you want to accomplish, a cash bar is preferable. If you have an open bar, some people get a little too much alcohol, they don’t bid or participate in the money making portion and are frequently loud and disturbing. How you handle this issue is up to the committee.
occurrence such as the super-bowl, a local major event, or the
United Way campaign.
When one is arranging the evening, you must address the issue of alcohol. It is good in many fundraisers(i.e. auctions, raffles, etc.) for people to have a few drinks so they are mellow and more apt. to bid better on items. If this is what you want to accomplish, a cash bar is preferable. If you have an open bar, some people get a little too much alcohol, they don’t bid or participate in the money making portion and are frequently loud and disturbing. How you handle this issue is up to the committee.
Friday, January 8, 2010
FUNDRAISING FUN 101(CONT.)
Misc. marketing information:
1. Use bulletin boards – church, grocery store, community centers, residential facilities.
2. There are public announcements available on radio and some T.V. programs. Access these if available.
3. Newspapers and some magazines have community calendar. Access these when available.
4. Flyers – under windshields, post along streets if allowed.
5. Donation lists. Both by direct mail and emails.
1. Use bulletin boards – church, grocery store, community centers, residential facilities.
2. There are public announcements available on radio and some T.V. programs. Access these if available.
3. Newspapers and some magazines have community calendar. Access these when available.
4. Flyers – under windshields, post along streets if allowed.
5. Donation lists. Both by direct mail and emails.
Monday, January 4, 2010
SaveAround Enjoy The City Fundraising Video
Here is a fundraising idea that can be used by school age children. It just needs work to make it successful.
FUNDRAISING FUN 101(CONT.)
We will continue our thoughts on fundraising. Review the material we have presented be for the interruptions.Budget: Although you try to get as many things paid for through sponsorship or donations, some cash will be needed. And until you have secured the sponsorship, you don’t know how much that will be so you should plan as if there aren’t any sponsors. The more sponsors, the less cash needed for start-up costs.
1. Facility rental – when you talk to the facility manager, you need to determine in writing what the fee covers. Does it include food, decorations, centerpieces, parking, tables for display(with skirts). Most places that do this type of event know what to include. Just make sure everything you need is addressed.
2. Food is usually covered in the ticket price. The type of food, the setting(a sit down dinner, a buffet, etc.) will make a difference in the price and this will influence the cost of the ticket.
3. Prizes-these should all be donations.
4. Advertising. Flyers, billboards, radio/T.V. ads, newspaper/magazine ads.
5. Printing.
A: Tickets
B: Programs
C: Silent auction bid sheets(3 pieces) – one copy for the buyer, one copy for the cashier, one copy to stay with the item.
D: Invitation/response card
E: Auction gift record -2 copy-one copy for auction committee,
one copy for the donor.
F: Letter for prospective donor.
G: Flyers
H: Thank you cards or letters
I: Mailing labels
6. Decorations – try to sell centerpieces at end of evening to cover their cost.
7. Auctioneer(if not donated)
8. Music/DJ(if not donated)
9. Master of Ceremonies(if not donated)
10. Parking permits for volunteers
11. Meals for 7, 8, & 9.
12. Audio visual equipment-if not supplied by facility or DJ
Misc. marketing information:
1. Use bulletin boards – church, grocery store, community centers, residential facilities.
2. There are public announcements available on radio and some T.V. programs. Access these if available.
3. Newspapers and some magazines have community calendar. Access these when available.
4. Flyers – under windshields, post along streets if allowed.
5. Donation lists. Both by direct mail and emails.
1. Facility rental – when you talk to the facility manager, you need to determine in writing what the fee covers. Does it include food, decorations, centerpieces, parking, tables for display(with skirts). Most places that do this type of event know what to include. Just make sure everything you need is addressed.
2. Food is usually covered in the ticket price. The type of food, the setting(a sit down dinner, a buffet, etc.) will make a difference in the price and this will influence the cost of the ticket.
3. Prizes-these should all be donations.
4. Advertising. Flyers, billboards, radio/T.V. ads, newspaper/magazine ads.
5. Printing.
A: Tickets
B: Programs
C: Silent auction bid sheets(3 pieces) – one copy for the buyer, one copy for the cashier, one copy to stay with the item.
D: Invitation/response card
E: Auction gift record -2 copy-one copy for auction committee,
one copy for the donor.
F: Letter for prospective donor.
G: Flyers
H: Thank you cards or letters
I: Mailing labels
6. Decorations – try to sell centerpieces at end of evening to cover their cost.
7. Auctioneer(if not donated)
8. Music/DJ(if not donated)
9. Master of Ceremonies(if not donated)
10. Parking permits for volunteers
11. Meals for 7, 8, & 9.
12. Audio visual equipment-if not supplied by facility or DJ
Misc. marketing information:
1. Use bulletin boards – church, grocery store, community centers, residential facilities.
2. There are public announcements available on radio and some T.V. programs. Access these if available.
3. Newspapers and some magazines have community calendar. Access these when available.
4. Flyers – under windshields, post along streets if allowed.
5. Donation lists. Both by direct mail and emails.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
FUNDRAISING WITH TWITTER(CONTINUED)
This is the reTools like TwitterFeed automatically broadcast your blog posts through your Twitter account. Then your blog posts reach both those subscribed to your RSS feed and those following you on Twitter. And if anyone of them like it, they may "retweet" it, broadcasting to the people that follow them.
Twitter's Not Just for Broadcasting
Be warned: Twitter is not just a tool to push your message out. The September 2008 BusinessWeek special report had a warning from H&R Block's experience: Amy Worley, who manages [H&R] Block's Twitter program, had to alter her approach. "I went in thinking Twitter was a free way to push our message out," she says. "Big mistake. We learned to listen. We started winning once we let people decide on their own about our services."
For people using Twitter, is has to be a two-way conversation. That is the genius of Twitter: you can form your very own "listening post" and hear what others are saying about the issues that affect your mission. This can help you generate ideas and tell your story better.
What About Fundraising with Twitter
Listening is one thing, but can Twitter really be used for fundraising?
Social media expert, Beth Kanter writes that people will not make a gift just because you tweet. Neither will they give because you start a blog or create a cause on. But, she points to a blog post by Avi Kaplan reporting that a Twitter idea called "Tweetsgiving" raised over $11,000 in just 48 hours!
Kaplan himself gives some great measurements on how "Tweetsgiving" spread around the world. What would it cost your organization to get over 100 press and blogger mentions in over 100 countries using traditional media? On Twitter, it was free.
But NTEN (the Nonprofit Technology Network) reminds us that Twitter isn't the point. Relationships are the point. Relationships have always been the point. The most basic of fundraising secrets is that "people give to people." Twitter is simply one more tool to help people connect with each other. Can your nonprofit afford not to explore all the tools available?
Jump In, the Twitter Stream's Warm!
Why not test it out? Setting up an account is easy and free. Twitter's more interesting if you start following people right away. Nonprofit blogger Mark Hayward (@mark_hayward on Twitter) has a list of 97-yes, 97!-people he suggests following on Twitter. Check them out and follow the people that interest you. It's ok. You're not being invasive or nosey. You are supposed to follow people.
Other ways to find people that work in your field are tools like Search.Twitter.com or Twellow. Search "fundraising" or "nonprofit" or whatever else you're interested in. Whatever your cause is, you can search on to see who is talking about your cause. Simply follow those you find interesting and join in the conversation that's already going on. At first, you'll probably want to just listen. It's amazing how just listening will help you tell your nonprofit's story.
It's as Simple as Having a Conversation
Do not let all the tools confuse you. Twitter is as simple as having a conversation. Like anything else, it's odd to get used to, but once you get the hang of it, it is fun. You may raise money because of your tweets, but more importantly, you will learn a lot about the people that choose to support your cause and other causes. And that will help you get more effective at your nonprofit storytelling. What do you have to lose?mainder of the article by Marc Pitman on Twitter and fundraising.
Twitter's Not Just for Broadcasting
Be warned: Twitter is not just a tool to push your message out. The September 2008 BusinessWeek special report had a warning from H&R Block's experience: Amy Worley, who manages [H&R] Block's Twitter program, had to alter her approach. "I went in thinking Twitter was a free way to push our message out," she says. "Big mistake. We learned to listen. We started winning once we let people decide on their own about our services."
For people using Twitter, is has to be a two-way conversation. That is the genius of Twitter: you can form your very own "listening post" and hear what others are saying about the issues that affect your mission. This can help you generate ideas and tell your story better.
What About Fundraising with Twitter
Listening is one thing, but can Twitter really be used for fundraising?
Social media expert, Beth Kanter writes that people will not make a gift just because you tweet. Neither will they give because you start a blog or create a cause on. But, she points to a blog post by Avi Kaplan reporting that a Twitter idea called "Tweetsgiving" raised over $11,000 in just 48 hours!
Kaplan himself gives some great measurements on how "Tweetsgiving" spread around the world. What would it cost your organization to get over 100 press and blogger mentions in over 100 countries using traditional media? On Twitter, it was free.
But NTEN (the Nonprofit Technology Network) reminds us that Twitter isn't the point. Relationships are the point. Relationships have always been the point. The most basic of fundraising secrets is that "people give to people." Twitter is simply one more tool to help people connect with each other. Can your nonprofit afford not to explore all the tools available?
Jump In, the Twitter Stream's Warm!
Why not test it out? Setting up an account is easy and free. Twitter's more interesting if you start following people right away. Nonprofit blogger Mark Hayward (@mark_hayward on Twitter) has a list of 97-yes, 97!-people he suggests following on Twitter. Check them out and follow the people that interest you. It's ok. You're not being invasive or nosey. You are supposed to follow people.
Other ways to find people that work in your field are tools like Search.Twitter.com or Twellow. Search "fundraising" or "nonprofit" or whatever else you're interested in. Whatever your cause is, you can search on to see who is talking about your cause. Simply follow those you find interesting and join in the conversation that's already going on. At first, you'll probably want to just listen. It's amazing how just listening will help you tell your nonprofit's story.
It's as Simple as Having a Conversation
Do not let all the tools confuse you. Twitter is as simple as having a conversation. Like anything else, it's odd to get used to, but once you get the hang of it, it is fun. You may raise money because of your tweets, but more importantly, you will learn a lot about the people that choose to support your cause and other causes. And that will help you get more effective at your nonprofit storytelling. What do you have to lose?mainder of the article by Marc Pitman on Twitter and fundraising.
Friday, January 1, 2010
FUNDRAISING WITH TWITTER
This is a new series of posting taken from an article by Marc Pitman on using Twitter.Twitter is a great free tool that can transform your approach to fundraising. And in a time of economic uncertainty, a free tool is a welcome help!
Twitter: A Brief Introduction
At its most basic level, Twitter is called "microblogging." Users are allowed 140 characters to answer the main question on the Twitter home page: "What are you doing now?" When you first start to tweet, it feels really odd. Why would you share what you're eating? Why would anyone care? It seems like it is only useful for narcissistic people or those trying to waste time. But people do. And the conversations get even better when you start answering a question like "What are you focusing on?"
People use Twitter to ask questions, follow people that are interesting, promote links to various websites, share news stories, to coordinate events during conferences. Forbes reports that people are even using Twitter to provide real-time disaster relief information.
Twitter for Fundraising
From a fundraising perspective, Twitter is an amazing way to engage donors and potential donors. One of the hardest things to do as a fundraiser is to maintain relationships. Twitter allows you to do that...right in the midst of your normal every day routine.
You can meet people all over the world that might be interested in your cause.
You can hear what people are really thinking about a wide variety of issues.
You can follow other fundraisers and get great real-time advice.
You can even promote traffic to your website or those of your friends.
Better still, if you can make your comments effectively understood in 140 characters, think about how all your fundraising writing will improve! You are forced to be succinct and understandable!
Twitter: A Brief Introduction
At its most basic level, Twitter is called "microblogging." Users are allowed 140 characters to answer the main question on the Twitter home page: "What are you doing now?" When you first start to tweet, it feels really odd. Why would you share what you're eating? Why would anyone care? It seems like it is only useful for narcissistic people or those trying to waste time. But people do. And the conversations get even better when you start answering a question like "What are you focusing on?"
People use Twitter to ask questions, follow people that are interesting, promote links to various websites, share news stories, to coordinate events during conferences. Forbes reports that people are even using Twitter to provide real-time disaster relief information.
Twitter for Fundraising
From a fundraising perspective, Twitter is an amazing way to engage donors and potential donors. One of the hardest things to do as a fundraiser is to maintain relationships. Twitter allows you to do that...right in the midst of your normal every day routine.
You can meet people all over the world that might be interested in your cause.
You can hear what people are really thinking about a wide variety of issues.
You can follow other fundraisers and get great real-time advice.
You can even promote traffic to your website or those of your friends.
Better still, if you can make your comments effectively understood in 140 characters, think about how all your fundraising writing will improve! You are forced to be succinct and understandable!
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