| Making the Most of Your Cell Phone Collection Fundraiser
By Sandra
Sims
Many organizations undertake a cell phone collection fundraiser in hopes that they can raise funds without selling products or holding an event. While a cell phone fundraiser can be easier than a large scale an event on a specific date, it still takes much planning and effort to be a success.
When planning your collection fundraiser consider these 5 tips:
1. Be Aware of Program Procedures
The organizers of the cell phone collection drive should be very clear about what types of phones are acceptable and the requirements for submitting them. Communicate clearly to your supporters which phones are allowed, including specific model numbers and perhaps even pictures in your flyers.
2. Plan Collection Dates in Advance
Be aware of the time restrictions on the cell phone collection drive. Collection drives can be more effective when adequate time is provided for supporters to bring collections in. For example, if your campaign can run for two months that would be much better than one week. However, having a definite end date for the campaign will convey a sense of urgency to your group and will likely bring in more donations than an open-ended program.
3. Work As a Team
Your group should have volunteers who are willing to devote time to various aspects of the collection drive. Divide up the responsibilities for managing the drive such as publicity, box distribution, box collection, and shipment of units once the program is concluded.
4. Make It Easy to Donate
Providing collection containers at multiple specified locations will make it easier for people to drop off their old cell phones. When communicating with volunteers or potential donors list all of the available drop off locations as well as your coordinator’s phone number and email address.
5. Expand Your Reach
If your group is a school or large organization you may have a large enough number of people to collect phones. However, remember that most people only change cell phones once every one or two years, so there will likely be many people who do not have something to donate.
If your group can partner with businesses in the area, you will also be more likely to get more donations. The businesses can collect phones at their location and make all of their employees aware of the project.
Finally, publicize your collection campaign in as many outlets as possible. The more people who know about your campaign, the more people will be likely to donate!
Sandra
Sims has been fundraising for
various charities for over
10 years and is dedicated to
helping non profits raise more
for their causes. Visit her Step
By Step Fundraising website
to get your free copy of the
special report.
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