How to Fundraise for DCHC with Your School Community!

Want to be a part of a school community that sets a positive example and works together to make an impact? Here’s how!

Don’t forget to reach out to development@durhamchc.ca for more ideas and assistance in planning. We’d love to support your efforts all along the way!

Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Class Challenges – the class that raises the most money gets a prize!
• School Concert or Play
• Dance-a-Thon
• Bake Sale
• T-Shirt Sales for a Day of Importance (e.g., Pink Shirt Day, National Truth and Reconciliation Day)
• Themed Dress-Up Day
• Summer BBQ
• Carnival or Festival
• Car or Pet Wash
• Lemonade or Concession Stand
• Art Pop-Ups (Face Painting, Tattoos, Henna, Nail Art, etc.)
• Grand Opening Celebrations
• Auctions and Promo Draws
• Trivia or Movie Night
• Walk-a-Thon
• Off-Grounds Benefit Dinner or Coffee House Event

Organizing a successful fundraising event requires some planning and preparation. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

Planning Your Event

1. Define Your Event Idea and Goals:

• • Determine the type of event you want to organize – see above for some ideas!
  • Set a clear fundraising goal to guide your efforts.

2. Set a Timeline and Budget:

• • Create a timeline that includes key milestones leading up to your event.
  • Develop a budget outlining any expenses, if needed (e.g., food, prizes, printing promotional materials, etc.).

3. Consider Logistics:

• • Consider if you will host your event at the school or off grounds.
    • Choose a suitable place to host your event that aligns with your event’s purpose and obtain any necessary permissions required for your event.
  • If needed, secure any vendors and suppliers for services such as catering, entertainment, and rentals.
  • Ensure all fundraising activities comply with legal and ethical standards (we can help with this, let us know your ideas!)

Promoting Your Event

Here are some tips to help you reach your audience and maximize participation!

1. Utilize Social Media and Digital Channels:

• • Create event pages on social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram) to promote your event and engage with potential attendees. Don’t forget to tag us!
  • Share event updates, stories, and testimonials to build excitement and awareness.

2. Outreach and Email Newsletters:

• • Utilize your network to send invitations and updates about your event. Consider using email lists your school may have to spread the word to fellow parents and families!
  • Personalize your messages to convey the impact of supporting Durham Community Health Centre and why you’ve chosen us!

3. Engage Local Media and Community Partners:

• • Post your event on community websites (e.g., Facebook Communities) to garner support.
  • Consider reaching out to local newspapers and radio stations to promote your event through press releases or interviews.
  • Consider collaborating with local businesses to expand your event’s reach and support base (i.e., posting flyers, announcements, etc.)

4. Peer-to-Peer Fundraising:

• • Encourage supporters to create personal fundraising pages and to share them within their networks. We have a website that can facilitate this! Please email us at development@durhamchc.ca to learn more.

Donate the Proceeds

• • After your fundraiser ends, calculate the total funds raised.
  • Donate your proceeds to DCHC through our online donation form, cheque, credit card, or EFT. Please reach out to development@durhamchc.cafor any assistance.

Don’t forget to thank your school community, letting them know how their contributions will make a difference!

No matter which fundraiser you choose, they’re all great ways to raise money for a worthy cause! Keep the process simple, involve fellow families, friends, and community members, and donate the proceeds to make a meaningful impact!