A Guide to Fundraising – part vi

Fundraising is one of those things you can learn in a day but spend a lifetime trying to master. The only way that you are ever going to get started is by taking the first step. 

If you are worried about making mistakes, don't be. Mistakes are part of the learning process. You can't be castigated for them.

Get help and advice. Form a nucleus of support that will radiate outwards. 

Scout around for ideas. Become a donor. Join other campaigns and causes and donate to their various appeals, just to get a feel for what they are doing. Support campaigns and causes similar to your own as well as those that bear little resemblance but with which you identify with, nevertheless. Remember to donate to your own appeals too. You will find it hard to convince others if you can't convince yourself.

Join a professional body. Attend workshops, seminars, conferences. Link up with other fundraisers and share ideas. 

Discuss both your successes and your failures with the same objectivity. Do this with your colleagues, with your co-workers but most importantly, with your donors. 

Keep in Touch with Sensible Fundraising. Visit the website regularly. New material is constantly being added while existing material is subject to ongoing review – based in part on feedback that we receive from people like you. We also provide a Visitor Gallery section for you to interact with others who have an interest in fundraising. 

We also encourage you to Keep in Touch via e-mail alerts and by subscribing to our News Service.  Follow us on social media.

Contact Us with your questions, or just to let us know how you are getting on.

To Your Fundraising Success!