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How To

How to Solicit Donations

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Have you ever seen someone on the street soliciting donations? Did you decide to give them money? If not, maybe it was because the person approached you badly, or because you didn't believe that the money would be used for good. There's definitely a right to ask people for monetary donations that will distinguish you from being a beggar. You want people to look at you as a professional, caring individual who really wants to help someone in need.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Literature related to your charity
  1. Step 1

    Design and print literature related to your cause. This can be a brochure or a flier. You may also find value in creating business cards to pass along if this is an established charitable organization.

  2. Step 2

    Develop a short speech to use whenever you come across a possible donor. Your words should be genuine and from the heart, not manufactured. Express the purpose of your charity with vigor and excitement. You must convey to the potential donor how important the program or charity is to the community. Ask for a specific minimum suggested amount; for example, you could say, "A donation of even just $5 would really make a difference." You should also give people a little background about the charity, so that they know it is established.

  3. Step 3

    Dress appropriately when soliciting donations. Dress in clean, business casual attire. A skirt and blouse for women and slacks, shirt and tie for men.

  4. Step 4

    Approach your potential donors at an appropriate event, preferably a networking event. You do not want to give your prepared remarks to people at parties and social events where people are focused on having fun.

  5. Step 5

    Send an email to your friends, family and business associates discussing your cause and asking for donations through PayPal (see Resources). PayPal is a convenient and safe way for people to make their donations automatically when they open your message.

  6. Step 6

    If soliciting donations on the street, bring your literature and a professionally designed sign that has clear information about the charity. Find a location that is in a high traffic area, but do not accost people on the street or block traffic when trying to get the attention of pedestrians and drivers. If you're seeking donations for a group that you are a part of (such as a cheer squad or a band), wear the uniform of the group to show people that yours is a legitimate cause.

Tips & Warnings
  • Consider signing up for an online donation site (see Resources). Use the speech that you developed in Step 2 as your description, and send the link to your family and friends.
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