As parents ourselves, this cause is very close to our hearts, as it makes us realise how lucky our children are to grow up with running water and all of the advantages that this allows them – and that’s just because they’ve been fortunate enough to be brought up in a country where water is plentiful. Being involved in Workout for Water has created an awareness and gratitude in both us and our families, as we ask ourselves, “How we want our children to see us conducting ourselves in life, and what kind of world do we want to leave them?”
We’ve been brainstorming heaps of ideas to help you fundraise with us (including doing shots of mayonnaise – vetoed by Dan). Here are the things we’ve found have worked for us over the last six months:
1. ASK LOCAL BUSINESSES TO HELP OUT
We approached local businesses to ask them if they would be willing to donate or sponsor us or partner with us for events, and the response was really amazing. Everyone we spoke to was really interested and this is even truer if you’re part of a smaller community.
2. TURN A FUNDRAISER INTO AN EVENT
In this age of digital isolation, we know that people crave being part of a community and therefore any sort of a celebration that brings people together is always a winner! You could use your club launch day, or your birthday party, Halloween, Thanksgiving… you will guarantee support when you tie an event in with your fundraising efforts. My [Diana’s] son, Max, wants to sell tickets for a charity Halloween party which will be a really safe environment for kids and their parents to come and have delicious treats and games, and all the proceeds will go to Workout for Water (and we’ll be having a raffle cause he’s obsessed with raffles).
3. HOLD A RAFFLE
And on that point, you can also raise lots of money by putting a really beautiful gift basket together and selling raffle tickets.
4. FIND A FUNDRAISING BUDDY
Fundraising by yourself can feel… hard. Get a team together or partner up with someone else and you’ll find that it’ll be way easier and more fun!
5. APPROACH PEOPLE YOU KNOW AND ASK THEM FOR THEIR IDEAS!
Reaching out for donations is the scariest part and it can feel like cold calling. So start with people you know – and by that we mean your family and friends. Talk to the people in your classes – they may have their own businesses or be aligned with corporate organisations.
Invite people into the conversation by asking them to brainstorm ideas with you for fundraising. You’ll find they’ll be even more willing to help out because you’ve asked them for their advice!
6. ASK FOR DONATIONS INSTEAD OF BIRTHDAY OR CHRISTMAS PRESENTS, OR GIVE A DONATION TO WFW INSTEAD OF A PRESENT
Because, honestly, who needs more stuff?
IT’S PART OF OUR WIDER MISSION FOR A FITTER PLANET
As Instructors, our mission is to improve the world and the lives of others, and this is just another way we can achieve this. In fact, this is even more profound as it’s literally saving lives!
