There are many ways to raise funds and you should choose what is right for you and what will work for you. Begin by making an action plan detailing exactly what you want to achieve and how you are going to achieve it.
Here is an example of how you could meet your fundraising goal
Write a list of contacts: family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, school friends, teachers, etc.
Don’t be afraid to ask them to sponsor you.
Get the largest amounts at the top of the sponsor form. Ask the person who is going to give you the most money first and then the next down. This will encourage others to be more generous.
The best way is be upfront! “I am determined to raise £2000 for The Colonel’s Fund and want you to help me.” If you can get friends to collect sponsors on your behalf from their own circle of friends even better. Just remember they will be responsible for collecting the money afterwards.
If people you do not see very often sponsor you, it may be easier to collect the money as you go along. This will save you having to make phone calls to chase pledges after the event.
Seek local commercial or business sponsorship, either as straight donation or in return for putting the firm’s logo on your running vest. We can provide you with proof of authorisation so that you can write to businesses and ask for contributions.
If you are employed, you might ask your employer to sponsor you or to ‘match’ the amount you raise in sponsorship.
If you are a member of any group, such as a sports or social club (i.e. golf club, working men’s club) or a church, you might ask to circulate sponsorship forms among the other members.
To collect sponsorship money in public you will need a Street Collection License from your local authority which will usually cost £15‐20. Applications for these licenses must be made well in advance of the event and are normally only given to official branches or members of charities. Ask us for details.
To collect sponsorship money on private property you must have permission of the owner or manager. Supermarkets, pubs and garden centres are excellent places. Why not set up a display explaining what you are doing and asking for contributions. It will help if you wear a The Colonel’s Fund badge – the more official you look the better – and you will need a container for contributions. We can provide you with stickers and collection tins, so please contact us.
Arrange for your local paper or radio to feature and support your preparations. Ring us for advice and support with your coverage.
It is important to be clear about how the money you raise will be spent by The Colonel’s Fund. If you have any queries please call us on 0845 4749528.