How to Write a Script for Fundraiser
Fundraisers provide an outlet for philanthropists to give back to those in need. One of the most important parts of a fundraiser is the opening speech, which is usually given by someone who played a major role in its fruition. There are several key parts that need to be incorporated into this speech to ensure that people relate to the cause and are inclined to contribute their time and/or money. After constructing the perfect speech, review it and make changes as necessary.
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Instructions
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Compile information about your organization, what it has done and how it has done it. Familiarize yourself with this information. It is important that you are able to intelligently give definitive answers to questions asked by potential donors.
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Write a rough draft of your speech. Set it aside for a few days and then review it. This will allow the speech to be fresh in your mind, making it easier to spot errors. If possible, ask someone else to proofread your fundraiser speech. Two sets of eyes are better than one.
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Capture your audience's attention. Use a clever joke, open with a famous quote or tell a heart-wrenching story that people can relate to. If your audience isn't listening to you, chances are they will not know what their money will do for your organization and will be less likely to donate much money, if any at all.
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Introduce yourself. Your audience needs to know who you are and the role you played in the fundraiser. If you are asking for donations, you should make people feel comfortable with you and confident that their hard-earned money is going to the cause indicated.
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Thank those who helped you put your fundraiser together. Though some might want to remain anonymous, you should acknowledge those who contributed to the life of the organization.
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Inform the audience about the work your organization has done and why the founders have chosen to embark upon this journey. Statistics may serve as proof that what you are doing is necessary and that further aid is warranted.
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Discuss the goal of the fundraiser and why the organization decided it was appropriate. Inform listeners of previous goals and whether or not you met them.
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Motivate listeners to make generous donations by asking them to empathize with those who will be helped by your organization. Discuss other ways that people can help those in your community, such as donating clothing, food or other amenities. Point out the small luxuries that most take for granted. For example, inform the audience about that 7-year-old who doesn't have toothpaste or a toothbrush and has lost his teeth. Sometimes knowing that people in your community are suffering will spur benefit attendees into action.
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Tell audience members how and when they can donate. Be sure to give them specific details such as phone numbers, mailing addresses and e-mail addresses, should they decide to make additional donations at a later date.
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Close your speech by thanking everyone for their attendance and for any contributions they might be able to make.
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Rehearse your speech and time it. A longer speech may cause your audience to lose their focus, while a shorter one will help you retain their attention.
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