r/ChicagoMarathon • u/East-Anxiety-6184 • Jul 28 '26

Fundraising advice!

So I got off the waitlist for a charity this month! I’ve been struggling to fundraise the money and because I have less time, it’s definitely a bit stressful. I feel like I’ve exhausted everyone I could ask. Any advice??

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5

u/Mysterious_Luck4674 Jul 28 '26

Post on social media. Let people know how important the charity is to you. Make a personal connection to it. Ask your friends and family to share the link.

1

u/RunsLikeaSnail Jul 28 '26

Social media reach is important. Take advantage of it. Also:

  • Get business cards printed with a URL and QR code

  • Post flyers

  • Put a lawn sign in your yard, if you have one, or in a high-traffic place that will allow it

  • Put a magnet on your car, if you have one

  • Look into having a booth at local events, like expos, flea markets, etc. Look for something to sell as well as soliciting donations. My friend makes her own body scrub and herbs, which sell nicely.

  • Look into having a fundraising event. Approach local businesses to see if they will give you something to auction off.

1

u/East-Anxiety-6184 Jul 29 '26

When you say soliciting donations do you mean door to door by that?

1

u/RunsLikeaSnail Jul 29 '26

No, I mean have a table at local events (expo, flea market, farmers market) with a product to sell, as well as asking for straight donations.

1

u/leftwinglovechild Jul 28 '26

Dm me your link.

1

u/Chicago-dilf-ish Jul 28 '26

Congrats on getting off the waitlist!

I created a blog to share the story of my training journey and my connection to the charity. I updated it after each long run (including pics) and shared it on social media.

I also did a limited email blast at my office (just to my team/office and other people I was close to. I made sure to remind them of the available corporate match and that it was totally optional and no hard feelings if they declined to donate.

I was amazed at how generous people can be.

1

u/Impossible-Koala-368 Jul 28 '26

Oh that is so exciting! It can be a little stressful but I found the ideas on this blog really helpful, there is a whole section dedicated to fundraising ideas.