Finding the funds for a volunteer project overseas can seem daunting, but fundraising can be a fun and rewarding experience. Your journey of learning, self-discovery and exploration starts here. You will be surprised at how willing people are to support a worthy cause!
- Make a plan. How much can you raise or earn per month?
- Set up your own fundraising page on your personal MyProjectsAbroad web page. This is available once you've been accepted onto a project; you can then give the link to anyone interested in donating towards your project fee.
- Cut down on expenditure and resist the temptation to buy things you really won't need – check out the kit-list we provide on your My ProjectsAbroad web page.
- Create realistic targets and chart your progress.
Our Fundraising Guide
For your convenience, we have put together a detailed Fundraising Guide which gives you advice and suggestions on how to proceed with your fundraising efforts. Here are a few tips before you begin:
- Decide on your plan of action. How much can you save a month? Will you approach organisations for sponsorship?
- Once you have been accepted on a project, you can set up your own fundraising page on your personal 'MyProjectsAbroad' web page. You can then give the link to anyone interested in donating towards your project fee.
- Create realistic targets and chart your progress.
Sponsorship and fundraising
Many companies would consider sponsoring you if you approach them in the right way. See our Fundraising Guide for ideas on how to write effective sponsorship letters. Before you start sending letters, just make sure you fit in with the criteria of the organisation, charity or trust you are looking to approach. Before you target them consider the following:
- Does the company have a local interest in your school/university/community?
- Does the company have an interest in your project or destination?
- Can you offer the sponsor an opportunity for promotion via advertising for a sponsored event on local radio/in a newspaper/on a poster/on a T-shirt displaying their logo?
Sponsored events
These often need planning in advance, but can be really rewarding. Think about who you know and the skills you have. Are you a runner? Know anyone in a band? An owner of a bar or restaurant? Our Fundraising Guide is packed with inventive ideas. Market the event properly and encourage friends and family to support. You can even contact your local radio or newspaper to attract sponsors as well as promote the ones you have.
A part-time job
Do not underestimate the impact of a part-time job! Even a small wage can make a difference if your are saving enough of it.
We are here to help and many of us, once volunteers like you, have embarked on our own weird and wonderful methods of fundraising. Remember that motivation and organisation are the keys to success.
Other sources
- Lions Club, Rotary or Round Table in your area
- Trusts associated with churches and cathedrals
- School and university grants
- Charities and trusts
GOOD LUCK!
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