Raising Funds Using the Internet

The internet and social media sites have fast become some of the most effective and efficient ways to spread the word about your fundraising efforts. New tools such as email, blogs, social media sites and You-Tube have opened up the possibilities for expanding your reach and lending credibility to your fundraiser. The internet also makes it easier for potential donors to donate and stay up-to-date with the progress of your fundraiser.

What to include in any online fundraiser

• Be creative – Create a campaign title & logo to help grab the attention of possible donors
• Write a Letter of Appeal – Share a brief but moving story about the patient & the purpose of your fundraiser
• Make it Easy to Donate – This should be easy to find and should include an address where to mail a check, a bank account number where to wire funds &/or an online payment method like PayPal
• Spread the Word – The benefit of online fundraising is that it can spread through word of mouth &/or the media, so ask your audience to share your story with others
• Follow Up – Be prepared to answer questions from the public & provide updates on your fundraiser
• Be Vigilant – A public campaign can attract negative attention, so be sure to monitor feedback
• Say Thank You – Consider keeping an ongoing thank you list & give credit to your donors

Some things to consider when using email

• Create an email list or blind copy (BCC) your target audience
• Consider setting up a Google group & send monthly updates to your donors by email
• Consider using Evite & invite participants to donate in a "cyber event" or promote other events

Some things to consider when using blogs

• Many sites provide ready-made templates that allow you have a "conversation" with your audience
• Your audience can subscribe to your blog & follow updates without the intrusiveness of email
• Suggested hosting sites – eBlogger, WordPress or Blog.com. Example - http://saveuvugirl.blogspot.com/

Some things to consider when using social media sites

• Social media sites allow you to share which causes or groups you are following & invite others to join you
• The popularity of social media sites can grow your potential donor pool but will also take time
• Suggested hosting sites – Facebook, Twitter, Digg

Some things to consider when using You-Tube

• Have the patient tell his/her own story in his/her own words
• Have friends &/or family provide testimonials about what their loved one means to them
• Consider mixing video, photos, graphics &/or music to convey your message

Some things to consider when creating a website

• Websites can be a great way to lend credibility to your campaign, but hosting & design can be a complex endeavor. As part of your fundraiser, you may want to approach designers for a discount or donation of their services.
  Example - http://blamedrewscancer.com/

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