For many people, the main concern when considering whether or not to volunteer abroad is the cost. Raising funds to cover your costs is entirely possible if you are prepared to put in the effort and be creative – and you will get more from your volunteer experience having done so. Furthermore, by organising fundraising events, you will raise awareness of issues in the country you will be travelling to.

We will provide you with sponsorship forms and a letter of endorsement. It is important to let people know that you will be working for a non-profit organisation in a developing country which is not in a position to cover your costs, so by helping you they are helping the organisation you will be working for.

Targets

It is important that you and your sponsors know how much money you aim to raise and what it will be spent on. This could be the programme fee, the cost of the flights, or living expenses. Be realistic – if you wish to cover all your costs, it will require commitment on your part.

Guidelines

• There are many ways to fundraise, and the more unique your idea the better chance it has of attracting attention.
• Before you begin, write a letter explaining what you are going to do and why you need to raise money. This will clarify for yourself the reasons why people should support you.
• It’s a good idea to link your fundraising activity with the type of voluntary work you will be doing or the country you are going to. For example, Cuban themed cultural evening if you are going to Cuba, or a beach clean-up if you are going to do conservation work in Costa Rica.
• Keep a record of all your fundraising activities, how much was raised, and who your sponsors are.

Who Will Sponsor You?

• Your workplace/college is a great place to start. Organise an event (such as a head-shave, raffle etc) and make sure everyone donates.
• Local businesses are often willing to contribute. Be sure to use any contacts you may have, and write to as many as you can. Try to make it more attractive by offering to use their name at any events you are organising.
• Individuals from your locality should be encouraged to sponsor you at fundraising events or through selling lines.

Fundraising Events

When organising a fundraising event, try to get as much publicity for it as possible. Local/college newspapers and radio stations will often give such events a mention; use notice-boards in the locality; and most importantly make sure everyone you know spreads the word. If you are using a venue for the event, try to use your contacts to find somewhere free of charge. For ticketed events, print out plenty of tickets – people may by them even if they cannot attend.

The more unique your event the better. Use your imagination, and organise something that will suit your personality and the resources you can call upon. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Table quiz
• Raffle (if you know someone who has a shop, they might sell tickets and provide a prize)
• Cultural event (live music, themed night etc)
• Sponsored run/swim/cycle
• Sponsored community service (clean-up etc)
• Cake sale
• Selling lines (again if you know a shop/pub owner, they might put up a sheet and take donations)
• Car-boot sale

The most important element to successful fundraising is determination. Remember, you are collecting for a worthwhile cause, so do not be ashamed to ask people for donations.