One Person CAN change the world, Small Town Fundraising Big Ideas

Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” in today’s fundraising world where non profits have become a $80 Billion Dollar a Year Industry it is always nice to hear about someone making a difference.

I work with people who want to start non profits and they all have there own reasons. Some want to save the world, others want to right some percieved wrong, and some just want the recognition. They all want to build an organization and raise money. It is rare when they have fully formed ideas about what it will take from a business and personal perspective so sometimes I feel I talk people out of starting non profits.

That is why I enjoyed a recent article on Stateville.com titled “Strong Start for Shelter Fundraising” about a woman who is raising money to start a no kill shelter in  Iredell County. First I googled Iredell County to find out in was in North Carolina and then I started thinking about this nobel pursuit. She held a yard sale supported by friends, neighbors, and strangers who donated items and she rasied $750 and is already planning on selling hanging baskets to rasie more money for her dream.

A cynical person may say that $750 is not worth the time and energy, however when was the last time a garage sale made $750? I have had friends work all weekend and rasie $200. So the amount of money doesn’t matter this time.  This woman had enough community involvement to have another sale and she DID SOMETHING! The journey of 1,000 miles starts with a single step and so I applaud her for her efforts.

I would also encourage her to keep going, local fundraising is the most fun. So here are a few things that will also work:

Car Washes, Lemonade, Yard Sales, Bowling Tournaments, Spagetti Dinners, Hotdog BBQs…..all things that engage a community and build support. Since she is focused on saving animals how about a pet wash? Maybe including pets at events. “Take your dog to the Ballpark” might work.

I went to a fundraiser over the weekend that was for local chalk artists and kids alike. Home Depot sponsored it, a bank gave their parking lot for the weekend and squares were measured out. People would donate money based o the size of the square they wanted and then go to town. I regret I was unable to stay to see the awards given out.

These simple thing rasie money, and give hope. I want to involved with organizations in the hope business.

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