Neighborhood Senior Services

When you ask someone to donate to a charity, you are giving them an opportunity to do something good for others, and, in turn, to feel good about themselves.
Start early-as soon as you register-and have fun with it!
Write a personal letter. Tell people why you have made this commitment and how they can help. Using e-mail can be effective and efficient if the note you write is personal. Be certain to tell folks where to send their pledges.
Set a personal fundraising goal. Suggest a dollar amount or put down options: $25, $50, $100…
Acknowledge each sponsor with a personal note of thanks. Tell them something memorable about the ride. This will certainly be remembered if you ask for their support next year.
Make Giving Easy—if you send a letter, enclose a self addressed, stamped, return envelope. Enclose a credit card pledge form. -Feel comfortable widening your personal mailing list. Create a database. Include friends, old neighbors, former classmates, friends of the family, members of clubs, committees, fraternities, etc.
Ask businesses that you frequent to sponsor you. Ask your auto mechanic, doctor, dentist, veterinarian, chiropractor, insurance agent, massage therapist, etc. for a pledge.
Add a link to your e-mail signature to let everyone know that you are participating.
Consider holding a fundraising event - bucket drive, casino night, car wash, wine tasting. Be creative!
In lieu of a gift on your birthday or other occasion, ask family and friends to sponsor you.
Have a sale or auction and donate the proceeds (Garage, eBay, or Bake)
Remind your sponsors to use matching gifts. Many companies match their employees' donations to non-profit organizations. This is a great way to double pledge dollars.
Start your own Extra Change Box - Keep a jar near your door and put all your extra coins in it everyday. It adds up. Or put it on your desk at work - others will join you.
Office Fundraising Challenge - Speak with everyone in your office and get them to challenge each other to raise the highest amount. Give the "winner" a prize. Maybe some movie passes? Gift certificate to dinner? Day off?
Carry Copies of your Fundraising Letter - Have one with you at all times and pass them along to people you meet.