How to a start and create a fundraising campaign?
Sign-up and start your campaign on our website. Below is a tutorial video on how to do it.
Do I have to pay to become a fundraiser?
No! As you will see, you sign-up as a fundraiser for free. In addition, you will receive a free copy of our book, This Is For You – The Story of David Kasali and the Congo Initiative. You can elect not to receive the book if you so choose. You will be asked if you want to to “kick off” your fundraising efforts with your own contribution? It might seem strange to make a donation to your own fundraising campaign, however, research shows a best practice in fundraising is to make a donation to your cause. The action shows you are invested in the cause and “all-in,” encouraging your friends, families, and networks to join!
How do I personalize my fundraising page?
Below is a tutorial on how you can personalize and edit your fundraising page.
How do I let people know about my campaign?
You can start off by writing an email to family and friends explaining what the Next 500 Future Leaders of Congo is all about and why you started your fundraiser. Be personal!
You can also easily share the link to your campaign page on social media such as Facebook and Twitter, and as you see in the video above, you can promote your fundraiser from your page. Post your fundraiser page link as your status, post a comment about your campaign on your friends’ walls and tweet about your campaign regularly. Also, you send follow-up emails to your family and friends — we all need reminders.
How much should I try to raise?
We encourage our fundraisers to start with the goal of one full scholarship ($1800). However, you can set the amount based on your own comfort level. If you think you can raise two or three scholarships, go for it.
What if I raise more than my goal?
That is the best news we can receive! Any funds raised beyond your goal will still go towards scholarships for UCBC students.
Where can I find resources to help in my fundraising efforts?
Great question. There are resources like Facebook timeline photos, videos, fundraising ideas, and more here. In addition, feel free to share links to the Next 500 Future Leaders of Congo website.
What are some unique, fundraising ideas?
- Pledge your birthday
- Host a house event
- Run a race (5K, 10K, or a marathon!)
- Ask for donations instead of wedding gifts
- Run a team race
- Organize your church or community group
- Organize a student group at your school
- Donate a percentage of sales from your business