Here are some fundraising ideas from past fundraisers to help you network and leverage your connections in the community. For further inspiration, read our fundraiser success stories. If you would like to share your ideas, post them in the fundraising section of the CCS Community.
Reach out to local high schools, universities, or former school committees. Ask if you can hold a fundraiser such as a bake sale, and offer to give a presentation when you get back.
Stop by local businesses, and former or current employers - Local businesses such as coffee shops and book stores may be more likely to make contributions than large corporations. You may want to approach the business with a letter first, enclosing information on your program and a pledge form, and then follow up with a phone call.
One other possible idea is to seek the help of former or current employers. For example, a volunteer working as a bartender got permission to have a tip jar out specifically to help with the program fee. The volunteer got many more tips simply because of mentioning the volunteer program! Another volunteer organized it so that on one waiter shift, $1 of every meal went to their program fee.
Connect with local service clubs, places of worship, or religious groups - Service clubs such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, and Optimists, fraternal organizations, such as Elk and Moose clubs, and religious groups are excellent sources for fundraising. The best course of action is to contact as many clubs in your area as possible and ask if you can give a presentation. Ask to speak for 15–20 minutes to present your request and explain what you will be doing.
Remember, you are not asking for money for a vacation—you are asking for a contribution to do volunteer work overseas and make a difference in the world. Let them know that you are willing to come back and show them slides or a video of the program when you return. After the meeting, write a follow-up letter thanking them for letting you speak and reiterating your request for contributions. Be realistic about the amount you are requesting and how it will be used.
If you need fundraising support, contact your Program Site Specialist. You can also read our fundraising FAQs. If you are not yet an enrolled volunteer, contact us for further assistance.
