How to plan and promote your event
Now that you've decided you're going to fundraise, our number one piece of advice is to start as soon as possible! Here are our top ten tips for fundraising success, whether you're taking on a personal challenge or organising your own event.
Team Sue Ryder Captains Henry and Becka give their advice on planning your own fundraiser in this video
1. Start as early as you can.
As soon as you've completed our ‘Doing your own thing?’ form, finalised your own fundraiser, got your own event place or have been accepted for one of our charity places - start your fundraising! The sooner you start, the more you’ll raise.
2. Choose an activity you enjoy and others will want to get involved in.
After all, fundraising should be fun!
Stuck for inspiration?
3. Check the calendar before you choose the date of your fundraiser.
Unless you’re making the most of a special occasion, make sure your event doesn’t clash with a major sporting event or a national day such as Mother’s Day.
4. Set up an online donation page.
And make sure you personalise it with your story.
Why you should fundraise online
5. Set a high but achievable target.
That way, you know what you are trying to achieve and everyone else can help you get there!
6. Think like a Dragon in the Den.
Set a budget and consider how to raise the most money. Aim to raise three times more than you spend. Keep costs low by asking for discounted or donated goods and services from local businesses, or find a sponsor.
7. Take a little time to plan to make it a success.
How much time will you need to make this happen? Who can help you in advance or on the day? Your goal is for everything to run smoothly, and for you to have a great time. Check out our supporting materials and ideas.
8. Tell everyone you can think of what you’re doing and why you’re doing it for Sue Ryder.
This could be by putting up flyers and posters, posting on social media, or why not change your email signature to shout about what you’re doing? Local media are always on the lookout for stories, too, so tell them yours. We can advise you on contacting the media and can share our press release templates.
9. Ask your employer or university about the possibility of matched giving.
Many companies run gift-matching schemes where they will match the amount you raise, effectively doubling your pot!
10. Contact your local Team Sue Ryder Captain.
Wherever you are in the country, there’s a Sue Ryder fundraiser near you who is keen to offer even more support, advice, promotional materials, inspiration and encouragement – just get in touch.
We're here to support you
Our 2019 London Marathon runners raised a whopping £190,000, enough to provide over 10,000 hours of care! Watch their top tips on how they raised such an incredible amount
Doing your own thing?
If you've already got your own place in a challenge event, can't see the event you'd like to do on our website or want to arrange your own fundraiser - please let us know using this form! Then we can roll out the red carpet and give you the full Team Sue Ryder treatment.