Introduction: Rallying for a Cause

Ever tried convincing your friends to give you their money—and maybe even their time? Trust me, it’s less terrifying than it sounds…once you learn a few tricks. And if anyone knows about questionable life choices in the name of fundraising, it’s me. I’ve run a marathon in Sierra Leone at a toasty 42°C with 90% humidity (like trying to run in a sauna), and I’ve hiked to Everest Base Camp—because apparently my lungs were too comfortable at normal altitudes. Then there was that epic 400 km cycle from the Cotswolds to Breda in the Netherlands in relentless rain, all because I had a meeting (and a big fundraising total) to get to. Each time, I was raising money for Street Child, and so far, I’ve drummed up over £10,000 for them.

But those are just the recent ones. This year I’m celebrating a decade of ridiculous challenges, like the time I decided to mountain bike the West Highland Way without actually knowing how to mountain bike—cue bruises in places I didn’t know existed. And if that wasn’t ridiculous enough, I also took on a solo 10 Peak Challenge, which involved trudging across Scotland’s highest Munros in blizzard-like whiteouts (goodbye, sense of direction) and ending each day soaked to the bone. Somehow, this hair-brained scheme raised just shy of £10,000 for Cancer Research. So yes, I’ve done a bunch of wildly unwise—and occasionally painful—things to get people to open their wallets. But hey, it worked.

Disclaimer: Please note that all my blog posts could contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase having clicked on one of my links I may make a small commission. This small income allows me to continue writing content to help you plan unforgettable trips!

Why Fundraising Matters

All jokes aside, fundraising has a huge impact. When a group of people rallies around a cause—whether it’s building schools, supporting medical research, or providing emergency relief—the collective power can transform entire communities. Donations don’t just help “somebody out there”; they can change a family’s life, finance critical research breakthroughs, or keep vulnerable children safe and in school. Every penny raised is a vote of confidence that says, we can do better.

What to Expect

In this blog post, I’ll share all the secrets I’ve learned along the way—sans bruises and altitude headaches. We’ll dive into how to pick the perfect cause, plan out your fundraising goals, and infuse your efforts with creativity (and possibly a dash of madness). By the end, you’ll know how to ask for donations without sounding like a door-to-door vacuum salesperson, and you’ll have a game plan for thanking your supporters in ways that make them want to give again and again. Buckle up—it’s going to be an adventure.

Defining Your Cause & Purpose

Know Your Why

Before you lace up your running shoes (or even send out your first fundraising post), it’s crucial to figure out your underlying motivation. Yes, you’re about to endure a marathon in Sierra Leone’s sweltering heat and humidity—but why? Dig deep beyond “because I signed up” and connect with the bigger picture: the chance to help vulnerable children access education. When you’re clear on your purpose—like seeing kids gain the reading and writing skills that can transform their futures—you become unstoppable. And that passion will spill over to your donors, too. After all, nobody donates just to see you sweat (although more pain does equal more donations!).

If you have a personal affiliation with the cause, share it. Maybe you are a teacher. Maybe in your youth you volunteered in a school abroad. Or perhaps, education changed your life. The reason I believe so strongly in Street Child, is because I know firsthand how education can shape a life. Through my travels I have met countless individuals with inspiring stories, but I’ve met many more that are struggling because they haven’t had the basic grounding to allow them to thrive.

Do Your Homework

Just like you wouldn’t run a marathon without doing (some) training, don’t run a fundraiser without the facts. Gather compelling stats on how many children in Sierra Leone are still out of school, or how something as simple as a few pounds can purchase books, uniforms, or fund a teacher’s salary. Did you know £30 could send a child to school for a year? Sprinkle in personal stories—maybe a short anecdote from a child who found hope through Street Child’s programs. These glimpses into real-life impact shift people’s perception from “supporting a cause” to “helping an actual person.” When your friends, family, and random co-workers see the tangible difference their contribution can make, they’ll be far more likely to click ‘donate’—and maybe even throw in a few extra bucks for good measure.

Leverage the media that has been created already by Street Child. Share the story the teenage sex worker who’s life was transformed thanks to Street Child. As part of your research, reach out to the charity you are raising funds for and ask them for content you can share!

Setting Realistic Fundraising Goals

How Much Do You Actually Need?

Let’s say you want to raise £1,500 for your Street Child Marathon in Sierra Leone. That might sound scary to begin with, but I want to reassure you that it is very doable. In fact, don’t be afraid to aim higher once you see the donations start rolling in. The first few pledges from supportive friends and family can give you a mental boost—and a welcome chunk of cash—that might make you think, Hey, why not push for £2,000? As long as you’re staying true to the cause and you’ve got a plan, there’s no harm in stretching your goal if you’re crushing the initial target.

Timelines & Milestones

Breaking that total down into smaller chunks can keep you focused and motivated. Interestingly, fundraising typically flows in four key waves:

               1.           When you first announce it (all that fresh excitement)

               2.           Just before you go (the clock’s ticking, people start to panic-donate)

               3.           While you’re there (You are there sharing the hardships and introducing people to the beneficiaries you have been fundraising for)

               4.           Right after you finish (the triumphant post-race glow, plus proof you survived and truly put in the effort)

Another time you’ll see a spike is when you share your vulnerability—those honest moments where you let folks know just how tough it’s getting, physically or emotionally. The time you set out on a 20 km training run only to pull up in tears 7 km because you just can’t do it. Those are the moment we like to not tell anyone about, but those are the ones that pull at peoples heart strings.

Factor these peaks into your plan. Instead of trying to raise the entire amount at once, set incremental targets for each stage. It keeps your audience engaged and encourages you to celebrate mini-victories along the way.

Crafting an Irresistible Story

Hook, Line, & Sinker

If you want people to dig into their wallets, you need to grab their hearts first. Start your fundraiser pitch with a quick personal hook—maybe your first taste of Sierra Leone’s scorching heat or the moment you realised just how important education is for kids who have so little opportunity. Then reel them in with the “line”—a short, powerful statement that highlights the cause: “For many of these children, going to school means the only meal they will eat that day.” Finally, deliver the “sinker”: a compelling call to action that urges them to be part of that solution. “£60 could provide a month with a business grant so she can earn enough money to send all her kids to school.” When your friends and family see the transformation their donation can spark, you’ve got them hooked.

Visuals & Emotional Pull

Words are wonderful, but pictures (and videos) can turn a casual onlooker into an instant donor. Post a snapshot of that dusty red road you’ll be running on, or a short clip of a child in Sierra Leone excitedly volunteering to answer the math question. It’s one thing to read about the heat and humidity—it’s another to see the beads of sweat on your brow. Real faces and real stories make your pitch harder to ignore. Testimonials from teachers, parents, or the kids themselves also pack a huge emotional punch (but always get consent first!). In short, if you can make your donors feel something, they’ll be far more likely to click “donate” than keep scrolling.

Elevator Pitch Practice

Nobody wants to scroll through paragraphs of waffle (or worse, get cornered by a rambling monologue in person). So, work on a 30-second spiel that sums up why you’re doing this, who benefits, and what action you want people to take. Think of it as your fundraising version of “Tinder for causes”: quick, impactful, and leaving them hungry to know more. This can be as simple as: “I’m running a marathon in Sierra Leone to raise £1,000 for Street Child. They help kids access education so they can break the cycle of poverty. Can I count on your support?” Practice it, own it, and watch the donations roll in.

Leveraging Your Fundraising Platform

Go Beyond Just Sharing a Link

A great fundraising platform isn’t just a digital piggy bank—it’s your all-in-one tool for collecting donations, telling your story, and keeping track of every penny that rolls in. Most of you will be using Givestar for the Street Child Marathon, so let’s talk about why it’s a game-changer.

Why Choose Givestar?

               •             User-Friendly Setup: Creating your personal page is quick and straightforward. Within minutes, you’ll be ready to share your campaign with friends, family, and random acquaintances who wander into your life.

               •             Customisable: Add your own images, personal anecdotes, and fundraising milestones to show everyone exactly where their money’s going—and why it matters.

               •             Real-Time Tracking: Watch your donations come in live, and get that sweet dopamine hit every time someone contributes. It’s a morale booster—and a great excuse to post an update thanking your latest donor.

Meet Boost Donate

Ever had someone say, “Send me the link, I’ll do it later!”—and later never arrives? Boost Donate cuts out the middleman. With this Givestar feature, you can turn your phone into a contactless payment machine. Instead of awkwardly pestering them with reminders, you can receive the donation on the spot. That means fewer “polite chases” and more instant generosity. Whether it’s at a family dinner or in the office break room, you can seize the moment and secure those donations while the enthusiasm is fresh.

Pro Tip: Keep Your Donors in the Loop

Use Givestar’s updates feature to share mini triumphs (like reaching 50% of your goal) or post a sweaty selfie from your training run. Keeping donors engaged not only fosters a sense of community, but also gently nudges latecomers who might still be on the fence.

Marketing Your Fundraiser Like a Pro

Social Media Magic

Don’t underestimate the power of oversharing (in a good way). Instagram Stories, Facebook Lives, LinkedIn updates—each platform has its own vibe, so tailor your posts accordingly. Offer behind-the-scenes snippets of your training, highlight that time you nearly fainted on a scorching run, or ask your followers to guess how many blisters you’ll end up with. People love feeling part of the journey, and the more fun you make it, the more likely they are to share your posts—and your donation link.

Email Newsletters & Personal Messaging

While posting on social media is great, nothing beats a direct, personal ask. Fire up a short email newsletter or message each friend individually. The personal touch makes a world of difference—nobody wants to feel like they’re just part of a mass mail-out. Let them know why you thought of them specifically, whether it’s because they love travelling, are passionate about education, or simply appreciate a good challenge.

The Power of WhatsApp

Even more personal than email, WhatsApp is your golden ticket for immediate responses. You can share status updates, training photos, or your donation link in group chats. But don’t forget the mighty “broadcast message” feature, which lets you ping everyone in your contacts at once—yes, even that fling from five years ago. If they’re important enough to have your number, they’re important enough to be asked to donate. And honestly, what better icebreaker than, “Hey, fancy supporting kids’ education in Sierra Leone while also giving me a shot at proving my athletic prowess?”

Press & Local Media

If you’re aiming for big numbers, consider contacting your local paper, radio station, or community blog. A compelling press release—complete with a punchy headline, a quick summary of your challenge, and the emotional hook of providing education to kids—can earn you an interview or a short feature. Not only does this boost your donations, but it also puts Street Child’s mission in front of a broader audience.

By mixing social media magic, personal outreach, and a few well-placed news features, you’ll drum up excitement, create a sense of urgency, and make people feel genuinely invested in your quest. The more channels you tap into, the greater your reach—and the less chance that your big ask gets lost in someone’s cluttered inbox.

Creative Fundraising Ideas

Virtual Events

In a world where we can have office meetings in pyjamas (thank you, Zoom!), why not host a virtual fundraiser from the comfort of your living room? Organise a virtual marathon where you and your friends run laps in your respective neighbourhoods, tracking the progress live on social media. Or try a silly “Zoom Fashion Show”—think outrageous hats and questionable runway walks—all in the name of raising money for kids in Sierra Leone. If the baking gods are on your side, how about a live-streamed bake-off? Anything that gets people laughing (and donating) is a win.

Challenges & Competitions

Who can resist watching a friend suffer through a hot chilli challenge if it means hitting a fundraising milestone? Or maybe it’s a “Dare-o-thon,” where donors vote on the next dare you have to complete once you pass a certain donation threshold. These interactive contests keep your network entertained and, more importantly, invested in seeing your total climb. Just beware, the last time I did this some supposed friend suggested I did an hour of burpees!

Themed Parties

Whether you’re a trivia whiz, a costume party fanatic, or just love a good knees-up, themed events are a surefire way to make fundraising fun. Host a quiz night at your local pub with an entry fee that goes straight to your donation page. Feeling fancy? A costume gala or a “top hats and tiaras” soirée adds a splash of glam. Don’t be afraid to announce your donation link mid-party—sometimes, the perfect moment is right after the first toast. And make sure you repeatedly suggest it once they are drunk; without inhibitions comes greater spending!

Raffles & Auctions

Do you have connections in the hospitality or retail world? Gather prizes or experiences (like a weekend getaway, a signed piece of memorabilia, or even a professional service) that people won’t be able to resist bidding on. In-person auctions can be lively, but if your supporters are scattered across the globe, consider an online raffle or a silent auction platform. Encourage friendly rivalry—there’s nothing like a bit of competitive spirit to drive those bids (and donations) sky-high.

The Art of Saying Thank You

Personalised Gratitude

When someone donates their hard-earned cash, they’ve chosen you—and, more importantly, the kids in Sierra Leone—over a myriad of other possibilities. So ditch that copy-paste template and take a moment to craft a heartfelt, specific thank-you. Mention something personal—like the time they (heroically) drove you to the airport, or how their passion for education inspired you. A donor who feels genuinely appreciated is far more likely to donate again (and sing your praises to others).

Donor Recognition Ideas

Sometimes, a shoutout can be worth its weight in gold. Post a playful “thank you” on social media, tag your donor, and let the world know they’re supporting a cause that matters. Have a blog or a newsletter? Highlight a “Donor of the Week” to make them feel like a superstar. If you’re super crafty, consider creating a physical or virtual “Wall of Fame,” displaying the names (or photos) of everyone who’s contributed. This not only shows gratitude for those who have donated, but encourages others to donate too!

Long-Term Relationship Building

You’re not just trying to raise money once and vanish. You’re building a network of supporters who care about Street Child and its mission. So, keep the conversation flowing long after the marathon ends. Share updates on how their donation was used—did a new classroom get built, or did more children enrol in school? Treat them like VIPs, and they’ll be ready to rally again when you dream up your next big fundraising stunt. Because in the world of philanthropy, repeat donors are the real MVPs.

Final Burst of Inspiration

You’ve got the tools, the motivation, and the heart—so what are you waiting for? Go ahead, plan that quirky fundraising event, fire up those personal messages, and set your Givestar page to “ready.” Every step you take, every friend you recruit, and every pound you raise directly impacts a child’s future. That’s some pretty powerful stuff.

Join the Conversation

Got questions or a fundraising success story you’re dying to share? Drop a comment below or tag me on social media. Let’s swap tips, celebrate milestones, and keep each other motivated on this wild fundraising adventure. Because together, we can make a world of difference—one sweaty run, one chili challenge, and one heartwarming donation at a time.