This term strikes joy into the hearts of some, to others a pit in their belly's. One reason I have found for the pit formation, is that inherently, we are afraid to hear "no" after we ask. I understand - I also have pushed past it.
Whenever I get the answer - NO. I don't take it personally. Timing for everyone is different and odds are, their answer is not a reflection of me or the cause to which I am asking their support for, moreover it is not a good time for them.
With that being said - I offer a couple of different examples on fundraising.
1. Write an old fashioned letter to some friends, family and a few co-workers. First of all, explain what you are doing, why you are doing it and how their support (no matter how small) will benefit Believe In Miracles.
Include in your letter a link to the site (www.believeinmiracles.org) and any personal information about your training or your connection with B.I.M.
Always include a postage paid self addressed envelope to make it easier. Let them know you will update them on your success in crossing the finish line and that their donation is tax deductible.
Always ask for them to join you too!
2. Email all of the above and then - follow up with everyone one month later. This is key when emailing any fundraising requests. (it's common for someone to have hopes to donate and then simply forget because it's not in print)
If you are emailing them your request - include the online site for donating online. (see the right site of this blog).
3. Print out the Team B.I.M.B.O. Pledge sheet, you can find this in the previous post - see below. Take your pledge sheet to school, work or keep it with you in your purse and ask your regular dentist, grocer or friends to pledge you per mile - and join you!
4. One friend, a mother of four, is saving all of the family's bottle returns. They've been saving them specifically for their family's donation.
I hope these have given you an idea or two and taken the fear out of fundraising. If you want more motivation - consider looking at Believe In Miracles site, and look at the 13 children we helped in 2011. Because of you - we can help more children with serious illnesses.
Blessings -
Tracy
