Question:
Dear your Expert-ness,

The Amnesty International student club at my school has been unsuccessful with our fundraising events. How can we motivate our student body to donate and participate more in our projects?

- Penny Lane

Answer:
Dear Penny Lane,

Fundraising. It can be the best of times; it can be the worst of times. It's all about how you do it. Only one thing is certain - a little bit of planning can save a LOT of work later on.

If you haven't already, you may want to start by asking yourself a few important questions about the goals and objectives of your group. You may want to first consider how much you need to raise in order to meet the costs of your group. In order to do this you can create a budget.

Secondly, you can reflect on what material, human, and networking resources you have to work with, i.e. you may already have a large meeting space, poster supplies, etc. Last, but not least, you may want to think about the strengths of your group. Are you event-planners, letter-writers, entertainers or all-of-the-above? Think about how you can incorporate your group personalities into a successful event.

For more helpful hints on organizing a successful fundraising campaign, you may want to consult the Youth Activist Tool Kit's chapter of Fundraising at http://www.amnesty.ca/youth/toolkit/fundraising.htm.

You'll probably get tons of ideas once you start thinking of all the resources your group can take advantage of. If you're still stuck, check our some of our action ideas at http://www.amnesty.ca/youth/toolkit/creative_action.htm.

Remember, planning and organization are key to organizing a successful fundraising event.

Good Luck,

The Expert

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