Raising Money

Don’t forget Birdathon’s purpose: Raising money.

Getting over your fear of asking for money.

• Remember, it’s not for you! It’s for a cause you believe in, making our communities a better place for us all.
• Don’t let the first words out of your mouth be that you’re asking for money. Tell them about Birdathon, what it’s for, how it works, combine the importance and the fun.
• Don’t assume people know what we do – even members! When they know the important things we do, they will want to support them. If it’s important to you, people who know you will want to support you.
• Include the fact that you’re competing for a trophy! Get your sponsors involved in the competitive spirit.

The first step is to prepare your Birdathon sponsor letter (or email) and build your target list of sponsors. You can learn more by reading our pledge letter guidelines. Collecting pledges is easier to get than you may think. You can find sample letters and everything you need to get started on our website at www.easatsideaudubon.org.

Here are some tips to make it easier.

Build a good prospect list.
Try to get at least 20 people to sponsor you.
Aim to contact 30 to 40 people to be sure you have 20 sponsors.

  
Goals
Some people find it helpful to set goals for themselves.
How much money do you want to raise?
How are you going to get there?

The “Ask” - make it personal

• Face-to-face – people are more likely to say yes when you are in front of them.
• Letters – have been very successful. Make it EASY for them to respond. Include a stamped envelope, addressed to yourself.
• Emails – these are getting more successful each year as  more people use this means of communicating.
• Phone calls - follow up with something written.
• Company’s matching program - a chance for people to double what they can give!
• Also remember that all donations to Birdathon are tax deductible.
• Practice on your family members or with your best friend.