Fundraising Tips for Students and Others

As global consciousness becomes more service-oriented, new funding sources have opened up for volunteers to underwrite all or part of their service programs through grants and sponsorships. Raising funds to volunteer abroad not only helps you develop new skills, it enables others to support your important service work through their contributions. Once you've chosen a service opportunity to join, you can approach potential benefactors with your proposal.

There are three primary steps in your fundraising campaign. Depending upon how much money you intend to raise, you may have to begin work up to a year ahead of your departure.

1. Choose your service opportunity and create a budget. Remember to include all expenses, such as transportation, special training and clothing required, language lessons, etc. The more detailed and organized you can make this, the better your chances of impressing potential donors. Remember, you can always accept less than you asked for, but it's MUCH harder to go back and ask for more later!
   
   
2. Create a potential donor list. Your options may vary, depending upon whether you're a student, or employee, and whether you are preparing for a short-term or extended opportunity. Research these funding sources thoroughly, and be prepared to create customized appeals for each. Pay attention to whether institutional funders have specific programs or giving guidelines (for instance, social justice committees at faith-based institutions), and tailor your appeal carefully. Like when writing your resume, you'll have the best luck if the audience feels you're talking directly to them, or answering their particular need. Don't make the mistake of sending the same request to everyone on your "prospect" list!
   
   
3. Keep your donors updated on your progress. In other words, don't "hit and run." Follow up if you don't hear from them, and never give up your fundraising efforts until you get a response - whether it's a "yes"or a "no." And, for those who do contribute to your campaign, be sure you keep them informed about your program - both before you leave and when you return. Some funders will require that you provide them a summary of your experience. Don't delay in thanking them and giving them what they ask for!
   

Continue with Step One: Create a fundraising budget