Unique, Unusual, and Fantastic Fundraising Event Ideas

Event organizers in the US and UK and put together a list of fantastic ideas for unique fundraising events.

1. Go wet and wild – In the UK, some charities capitalize on the (crazy) tradition of Boxing Day swims by organizing charity dips. Themes range from Pirates and Princesses to Angels and Santas. Despite below-freezing water temperatures, brave bathers raise thousands of pounds for charities. Not to be outdone, in the US and Canada, charities sometimes organize fundraisers around a polar bear plunge. But an adventurous fundraiser need not involve cold water: try a relay race, or join the many fundraisers trying out virtual races. Take-away: People love the great outdoors, so why not move your next event into the elements?

2. Get artistic – Street art has become very popular all over the globe, and smart organizers have leveraged that popularity with charity street art events — often called “paint jams.” These events bring together several street artists to paint live, reeling in fans to watch the artists in action, either in-person or by live streaming. You can also sell art supplies beforehand so your audience can join in on the fun, like San Gabriel Mission High School did. Take-away: People love to see and take part in unusual activities — it can actually be more compelling than typical “performances” like live music. When you’re planning your next spectacle, think outside the box.

3. Take a swing- We’ve all joined in on a game of soccer or kickball, whether during grade school PE or after-school activities, so sports are a great way to get people involved in your charity event. Put together a soccer tournament or work your connections and make it a celebrity golf game like UK organizer Watson Metters Golf often does.

Take-away: Sports events are a great way to rally donors — and even better if there are celebrities involved.

4. Get pampered- Sometimes, the easiest way to raise funds is to get people to splurge — on themselves. Self-care events can work great virtually — just ask UK creator Judith Onwubiko. Hook your audience up with pre-delivered lotions, conditioners, or other products, then connect them to a self-care expert for tips and tricks.

Take-away: Who doesn’t like to get pampered every now and then? Especially if it’s for charity!

5. Get gaming- Grab some retro consoles, borrow some TVs, and you’ve got yourself a gaming event. Go all night and you’ve got a marathon. This fundraising event is great for kids and adults alike. Since video games can often be played online, and even watched online through sites like Twitch, it’s a perfect fit for an online fundraiser. Take-away: Gaming marathons are an unconventional but smart way to raise money. And if you have a gamer in your life, you’ll be giving them a once-in-a-lifetime excuse to play all day!

In conclusion

Fundraising is a competitive marketplace, so the quirkier and more interesting your events the more you’ll stand out and excite your supporters. The great thing is, technology now allows for different kinds of fundraising events, with virtual fundraising quickly becoming as important as in-person events.

The key, as ever, is attracting — and engaging — your audience. Learn how to market your event, then get brainstorming on ways to engage the audience.

Source: Originally seen on Eventbrite