Fundraising tips

Here are some handy tips to help you maximize your online fundraising efforts:

1. Use social media

  • Share a link to your fundraising page so friends can contribute and post updates as you get closer to your goal.
  • Change your profile picture or cover photo to the Mercy Corps logo (get in touch and we can send you this).
  • Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for stories to share how Mercy Corps helps people facing the world’s toughest challenges. Explain to your friends and followers why these challenges matter to you - your passion will drive donations!

2. Email, email, email!

  • Carefully select a list of recipients to email, asking them to contribute to your fundraising. Think of friends, relatives, colleagues, classmates or others who typically do not see your social media activity.
  • Don’t be shy! If you’re emailing people you haven’t spoken with in a while, that’s OK! They’re likely happy to hear from you anyway! Remember you aren’t asking for a gift. You’re asking people to help communities around the world.
  • Change your email signature to include a link to your fundraising page.
  • Tell a story. Your supporters care about you, and what is important to you. Many people receive emails from charities asking for donations, you are what sets Mercy Corps apart!
  • After a couple of weeks have passed, it’s OK to send a reminder (good intentions need a helping hand!).

3. Make your message heartfelt and personal

“Passion Persuades” – Anita Roddick

  • Whether you are promoting your fundraiser via email, social media or another way, tell your community why you care and why the need is urgent. Share why you decided to fundraise and why you are passionate about the cause.
  • Why not make a short video about your fundraising? Or do a Facebook Live and answer questions about Mercy Corps? We can provide you with all the information you need. You want your friends to know why you’ve chosen to support Mercy Corps.
  • In emails and on your social media profiles, share posts and articles that resonate with you.
  • Need help finding images or videos? Let us know!

4. Donate to your own campaign

  • Kick off the giving by making a personal donation of any amount to show just how much you care. This shows that your efforts are legitimate and communicates your ambition.
  • Any amount will show your commitment, but do keep in mind your gift sets a standard for visitors. Consider how many people you think will give towards your goal and remember: smaller gifts add up.

5. Thank your contributors!

  • This is the most important step! We couldn’t do the work we do without the help of those who give to Mercy Corps. Let them know you appreciate their support of your effort.
  • Post a shout-out to donors who have made a contribution on social media. This makes them feel appreciated for making an impact and reminds others to do the same.
  • Send handwritten cards or letters. With so many communications coming via our handheld devices, why not go old school and surprise someone with a heartfelt message through their letterbox!

6. Submit check and cash donations

  • Checks should be made out to “Mercy Corps.” For security purposes please do not send cash by post.
  • Donations submitted without a full name and address are considered “anonymous” and the donor will not receive a receipt.

    • Please send donations and the form to:
      MERCY CORPS
      NATIONAL PROCESSING CENTER
      PO BOX 37800
      BOONE, IA 50037-4800
       
      Although Mercy Corps is still based in Portland, Oregon, all donations must go through our National Processing Center.

Note: Mercy Corps does not accept and cannot receipt non-monetary gifts such as clothing, food or any type of service. Please do not send items for donation to this address.