Organising your own event can be great fun and support your fundraising.
Here are our top tips for running a successful event, as well as key resources you’ll need as you plan your fundraiser.
Top planning tips
- Think about what the event you wish to organise. Use our event idea bank for ideas and inspiration!
- Timing is key. The time of year, day of the week and time of day will play a big part in how successful your event is. Take note of school and bank holidays and consider their impact.
- A suitable venue is very important. The size and location of your venue will determine the number of people who can attend.
- Ask for help. You may be able to do everything yourselves, but it’s possible that you may need to ask other people if they would be willing to help, too.
- Keep your budget in mind. Think about how much the event will cost and how you will raise the money, as well as how much you think you’re likely to raise. Always ask potential suppliers if they will donate their goods or services for free. Visit the Dealing with money webpage for more information.
- Safety first. It’s important that your event is safe and that you comply with legislation. You’ll need to complete your event activity plan in advance and share this with your Community Fundraiser for approval. You can read more on our activity plan FAQs on the Health and Safety page. The Safe and legal fundraising webpage explains your obligations when organising an event. You may find our pre-written activity plans useful. These are linked at the bottom of the page.
- Spread the word. Be sure to share your event with friends, family and colleagues – word of mouth is a great way to create buzz in your community. And don’t forget to make use of our posters and other materials to make your event stand out. You can talk to your Volunteer Manager about accessing these.
Make your event a success
Before the event
- Write an event schedule for the day, including the event set up and tidying up.
- Be sure to brief your helpers two weeks prior so that they know exactly what to expect when the day comes.
- Arrange refreshments for your volunteers throughout the event.
- Make a list of the materials you’ll need at the event, including:
The Event Activity Plan
Community Fundraising Incident Team number: 0800 3047 112
On the day
If you need a team of people to help, such as marshals and car park attendants, local organisations such as Rotary and Round Table can be helpful.
Your helpers will need to complete and keep an essential volunteer info card on the day of the event, which will give you details of who to contact in the event of an emergency.
After the event
- Allow time after the event for follow-up to count and bank all money raised (read the Dealing with money webpage for more information).
- Review how the event went at your next fundraising group meeting and share any thoughts with your community fundraiser.
- Write letters of thanks to those who’ve helped and donated goods or services.
- Spread the word of the success of the event by getting in touch with your local newspaper and sharing the news on social media to celebrate your achievements!
