In May 2001, eFundraising was acquired by QSP, a division of Reader’s Digest. Since 1964, QSP has helped students raise over $2 billion in profits for enrichment programs and worthwhile projects. Reader’s Digest is a global publisher and direct marketer of products that inform, enrich, entertain and inspire people of all ages and all cultures around the world.
QSP has a long-standing partnership with World’s Finest Chocolate and is the exclusive distributor in the fundraising industry of WFC products. When eFundraising joined QSP Reader’s Digest, it was able to benefit from this alliance. For over fifty years, WFC has helped schools and non-profit organizations raise over $2.5 billion in profits, which is unmatched in the fundraising industry.
When creating a fundraising campaign, the main idea is to make sure that the event is properly promoted and that it is supported with positive reinforcements. The result of this is an increase in motivation to reach fundraising goals. It has been proven that positive incentives are much more effective than negative reinforcement (ex. taking privileges away). There should always be some sort of reward given for a job well done to drive incentive in the participants.
The main goal of the fundraising drive should constantly be communicated to the group with regular updates on how far they are from reaching their goal. This excites the participants and increases their enthusiasm. The encouragement of how close the team is to their fundraising goal should always be the main focus of any campaign.
In the case of a reward system, organizers must be careful that they do not create too much pressure on the end of the participants. The rewards should never be too lavish (television, discman, etc.) simply because this causes jealousy, tension and resentment between the fundraisers. This could also lead to door-to-door selling in order to remain competitive. Rather, the rewards should be kept rather simple such as school supplies or special privileges (pizza parties, longer recess etc.). Also, in schools, there could also be rewards to classes that participate the most.
A well-formulated incentive program involves teamwork and responsibility on the part of the participants in order to accomplish personal fundraising goals. An effective campaign could even involve letting the team decide where their funds will be put to use (new fields, equipment etc.). The result of a well-run program is the increase in the percentage of completed campaigns (forms are filled out and returned on time).
It is easier then you would think to inspire your group/team or classroom to do some much-needed fundraising. All you need is endorsement, an effective reward system and the ability to have a good time while doing it!!
Call us now at 1-800-561-8388, or visit our website at Posted by efundraising on June 2, 2004 05:03 PM
