6 Steps to Fundraising

No matter what we say, money is important. It's not unusual for families to go bankrupt while trying to save members who are suffering from illnesses as severe as cancer. As important as dignity is, there is no shame in raising fund to help someone live.

1.     GROUNDWORK
It is important to sound genuine and honest. Research the patient's medical condition: where he is going through treatment, his needs and the exact breakdown of the needed funds. There are many people who are willing to help but don't come forward because of the risk of forgery. Print multiple medical certificates and photos of the patient. Paste them on carton boxes of medium size.

Tip:  Validate your information by using a photo of his present medical condition and one in school uniform.

2.     REACH OUT TO YOUR CONNECTIONS
Explain the crisis to your friends who are genuinely willing to help and divide the work. Divide them into smaller groups of 2 or 3 each on the basis of zones and assign a representative who can report problems and the sum of money collected. Contact the alumni and friends from different organisations.

Tip: Spread your message through social media.

3.     ZONING
Make a list of areas and times you want to go fundraising. Parents chatting idly while waiting outside before and after school hours, especially during SSC and HSC, have ample time to hear what you say. Besides, people gather in places like TSC, Bashundhara City Mall, Dhanmondi Lake, different fairs throughout the day. Few areas, like Bashundhara City, might require official permission from the authorities. We as a nation do not lack occasions to celebrate. During the entire month of February, Bangla Academy remains crowded. 

Tip: While a group of two volunteers can work at two entrances, others can walk throughout the premise to gather funds.

4.     APPROACH
Dress casual. Remember, not everyone of the group speaks. The group leader usually greets politely to set the first impression. Do not go too fast or too slow when you speak. Patiently describing the medical state and explaining the treatment process in details when asked reflects your sincerity.

Tip: Practice what you are going to say beforehand.

5.     BE READY TO HEAR MEAN WORDS
The moment you are seen with a fund box, many people will ignore you from a distance. Few would just listen to everything and still walk away. There are chances that your motive will be misconstrued as attempts to earn money via forged sympathy. But don't get mad, people are not 'obliged' to donate. Donation is totally a voluntary act.

6.     THANK PEOPLE
Don't hurry to move on to approach the next person. Take a moment to thank a person who has just made a donation. He/she has decided to help your family member or friend with something, no matter what the amount is.

Tip:  Ask them for good wishes and smile. 
That everyone in this world is different is best understood during raising funds. I have seen the kindest of people who would help someone they have never seen. It's the power of the story that you tell them and fundraising is itself making a story of giving life.

Myat Moe is an occasional philosopher whose favorite pastime is confusing people with her nationality. Reach her at 145michelle@gmail.com