Top tips for fundraising as an individual
Community fundraising isn’t just for clubs or organisations – it’s for everyone. Whether you are planning something on your own or looking for a way to bring a few people together, you are already part of a community.
However many people you choose to involve, every penny you raise will help make a difference to patient care right here in Nottingham.
We’ve put together a short guide to help you get the best experience and see fundraising success.
Choose the right fundraising idea
Great fundraising starts with something fun that inspires you and keeps you motivated along the way. Whether it’s a sponsored challenge, an event, or something creative, your passion will encourage others to support your charity fundraising for Nottingham Hospitals Charity.
Set yourself a clear and manageable fundraising target
A defined fundraising goal helps you stay focused and encourages supporters to get behind you. Make it achievable but meaningful - lots of people find they raise more than they ever expected and increase their target as their fundraising grows, so don’t be afraid to aim high!
Share your fundraising story
People will connect better with your fundraising efforts if you tell them why you have chosen to support Nottingham’s NHS hospitals, and why their support means so much to you.
Make it easy for them to donate
Setting up an online donation page is quick, easy and allows you to share it your fundraising as widely as possible. A simple donation process, means people are more likely to donate.
Promote your event
Use the tools you have at hand to promote your fundraising activity or event. Social media, email and word of mouth all help you reach potential supporters and keep them excited about your progress.
Build momentum as you go
Give yourself plenty of time to reach more people. When you’re fundraising on your own, your supporter base grows gradually, so use the methods above to keep expanding your reach. Try to make sure the people already backing you stay updated on your progress and total raised - many will feel inspired to support you again as your fundraising builds.
Get creative
Unique and creative fundraisers are a great way to utilise your creativity and stand out from the crowd. Whether you are planning to do a 5k in an inflatable costume or see how long you can hula hoop for, there’s no limit to your fundraising efforts.
Don’t be afraid to ask for donations
We know it can feel daunting to ask people to support your fundraising, but most people are happy to get behind a good cause when invited. If someone doesn’t donate, don’t be disheartened, keep reaching out to friends, family and colleagues who may be keen to support you.
Thank your donors.
When your fundraising activities are finished, remember to thank those who took the time out to support you and donate to your fundraising. Showing appreciation helps them also feel like they’ve made a difference to Nottingham’s NHS hospitals.
Once you’ve completed your fundraising, make sure you celebrate what you’ve achieved and thank the people who helped you get there. Their support has made a real difference to Nottingham’s NHS hospitals. Leave your page open for a little while too - plenty of people like to donate after the event.
Need some inspiration?
If you are stuck and looking for some inspiration on how to raise money, below are just some simple and effective ways to raise money.
Join one of our events – we’ll do the organising, you just sign up and take part. Choose from the Dragon Boat Race (5th July), QMC Abseil (5th September) or Robin Hood Half Marathon (27th September)
Host a bake sale or coffee morning – our free Big Bake Pack has everything you need to get started
Take on a sponsored challenge – whether it’s a run, cycle, or something a bit different, make it your own
Organise a charity quiz night – use our Quiz Pack to keep it simple and bring people together for a friendly bit of competition
Set up a birthday fundraiser – a straightforward way to raise money in place of gifts
Plan a walk or hike – our Hike for your Hospitals guide is a great place to start
Do something a little different – from themed events to personal challenges, there are plenty of ways to fundraise in a way that suits you
Explore more ideas – our Fundraising A–Z is full of inspiration if you’re not sure what to do
Still not sure where to start? Drop our Community Fundraising Team a line - we’re always happy to chat.