Ready to make a big impact? Here are some ideas for boosting your fundraising efforts— and you might even have some fun while doing it!
Be a Social Media Superstar!
Take to your favorite social platforms—Facebook, Instagram, TikTok—and get creative. Post engaging content like countdown updates, heartfelt stories, and short, attention-grabbing videos sharing why One Winter Night is important to you.
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Live Feeds & Stories: Go live! Whether talking about your journey or doing a fun winter-themed challenge, live videos are a fantastic way to connect with your audience in real time. Try a "24-Hour Fundraising Marathon" on Instagram, where you post hourly updates until you reach a mini-goal!​
Countdown & Engagement: Use story highlights to show progress toward your $1,000 goal. Don’t forget to create polls or quizzes to keep your followers interacting—like asking what costume you should wear for your next challenge when you hit $500.
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Set Up Playful Challenges: Who doesn’t love a good challenge, especially when it’s for a worthy cause? Create fun and crazy challenges based on your fundraising progress. “If I reach $300 today, I’ll do a snow angel in my pajamas!” or “When we hit $750, I’ll let my followers vote on a wacky winter outfit I’ll wear downtown.” Document these on live feeds or create quick, quirky videos that show you following through. The more entertaining, the better!
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Countdown & Engagement: Use story highlights to show progress toward your $1,000 goal. Don’t forget to create polls or quizzes to keep your followers interacting—like asking what costume you should wear for your next challenge when you hit $500.
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Build Hype with Weekly or Countdown Updates: Keep the momentum going with regular updates. Create a countdown calendar with big milestones and make sure to post about them frequently. Share the impact of each donation—“$50 provides a winter coat for someone in need”—and let your supporters know they’re part of something incredible.
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Live-Stream Your Journey: Every time you get closer to your next milestone, hop on a quick live feed. Share your excitement, talk about upcoming challenges, or even do something fun on the spot to celebrate. Your energy will be infectious, and people will want to see you succeed!
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Remember to put the donation link in your bio or on every post, so it’s super easy for people to contribute. Share progress bars and celebrate every donation, no matter the size!
Make Your Ask Personal
People give to people, so make your appeals personal and meaningful. Reach out to friends, family, and even those you haven’t spoken to in a while with a heartfelt message. You could send a short video explaining why you’re braving the cold and how their donation can make a tangible difference.
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Video Pleas: Record quick, sincere “Thank You” videos for every donation received, and share them on social media. People love seeing their support being appreciated, and it might even inspire others to give!
Enlist Your Workplace
Your workplace could be your secret weapon! Check if your company has a donation matching program—this could instantly double the funds you raise. Or propose a “Pay to Play” day at work where colleagues donate to participate in a casual or themed dress day.
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Community Efforts Multiply: For neighboring smaller towns with a vibrant local business area, see if you can rally the local gym, coffee shop, or restaurant to host a “One Winter Night” donation jar. Every bit counts, and your local supporters might surprise you!
People love to be part of a journey. Show the highs, the challenges, and the laughter along the way, and your donors will feel connected to our mission of providing Pathways to Progress!