Clicks for a cause: How to step up your online fundraising
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EmailWith the right approach, online fundraisers can do more than raise money. They can connect people and build support for your cause.
Online fundraising has become one of the most effective ways for organizations to rally support, raise money and expand their reach. Whether you’re crowdfunding for a 4-H club using CrowdPower, promoting a campaign to support an organization you believe in, or selling treats for your troop, the same core strategies will set you up for success. But a successful fundraiser doesn’t just happen. It requires planning, storytelling and community engagement. Michigan State University Extension shares how you can run a strong campaign from start to finish.
Step 1: Lay the groundwork
Before you launch your fundraiser, make sure you have the essentials in place. These include:
- Clear purpose. Define what the funds will support (e.g. youth scholarships, facility improvements, research, resources, etc.).
- Support team. Recruit partners, volunteers, participants and alumni to help you promote your campaign.
- Strong visuals. Gather photos and videos that tell your story.
Step 2: Launch with energy
The first 24-48 hours of your campaign are crucial. Your goal is to build excitement and spread the word quickly. Prepare by having a:
- Social media kick off. Post a story-driven message with photos or short videos. Pin it to the top of your page.
- Email blast. Send a clear, engaging email with the donation link front and center.
- Provide a toolkit. Share graphics, sample posts and talking points with your partners so they can help spread the word.
- Mini goal. Create a small goal or challenge for the first day (ie. “Help us raise $250 in the first 24 hours!”) to build momentum!
Step 3: Maintain the momentum
Midway through your campaign, the challenge is keeping the energy up. Try:
- Posting updates. Share progress reports and celebrate milestones (for example, “We’ve hit 65% of our goal!”).
- Highlighting impact. Post a thank you video or story about how the donations are already making a difference (Perhaps, “Your $50 donation will help one youth attend camp!”).
- Personal outreach. Encourage staff and volunteers to directly ask 3-5 people in their network to give. Personal requests often produce more results than general posts.
Step 4: Create finish line urgency
The final week, and especially the final days, is your chance to create urgency and encourage last-minute giving. Consider:
- Countdown posts. Use daily reminders (Ie. “Just three days left to support 4-H youth!”).
- Going live. Use live video or reels to show excitement and thank donors.
- Multiple channels. Post on Facebook, LinkedIn and send email reminders. Don’t forget to text, if appropriate.
Step 5: Thank you and follow up
Your campaign doesn’t end when the fundraising goal is met. How you thank donors will impact whether they give again in the future. Remember:
- Public thanks. Share a celebration post or video from staff, youth or whoever is impacted by the campaign.
- Personal notes. Send thank you emails or handwritten notes with specific impact details.
- Report results. Let donors know exactly how their contributions made a difference (For example, “Because of your support, 10 youth attended 4-H Exploration Days this year!”)
- Stay connected. Invite donors to events, volunteer opportunities or your mailing list.
Running an online fundraiser is about more than just raising money. It’s about building a community of supporters who care about your mission. By planning carefully, investing time into promoting your campaign, keeping the energy alive and showing gratitude, you can turn a simple campaign into a lasting impact.
As a reminder, 4-H clubs in Michigan may only crowdfund using the CrowdPower platform. Contact your local 4-H program coordinator to learn more about CrowdPower.
