Welcome to the Team
Now that you have committed to raising at least $150 in sponsorships for the student fundraiser you are officially part of the team. Read all of the information on the Student 4 Students web pages to help prepare yourself for success.
First, make a list of potential sponsors
Think about your relatives, family friends and neighbors. When you ask them to sponsor you, ask them if the company they work for has a "matching funds" program. Often times large companies match contributions their employees make to good causes. If they donate $30 and their company matches, you have now raised $60 in sponsorships towards your goal! Intel, Nike and ADP are just a few examples of local companies that have a matching funds program.
Before you ask anyone, prepare your sales pitch by...
Knowing what the money is used for
Tuition assistance and student activities. Indirectly, every student receives tuition assistance including you! You may not realize that the actual cost to educate a student is about 25% more than the annual tuition individual students pay. Pledges from the student fundraiser help cover the balance. Without these funds every family would be paying 25% more a year in tuition.
Personalizing the way you ask
Before calling, think about what makes Central Catholic special to you. Think about your day-to-day experience as a student and share those feelings in your presentation. When you are passionate about something it energizes a potential donor to say yes!
Practice with friends and family Before you call, practice what you are going to say. Use one of your friends or a parent or even a sibling to practice your first call. It really does help and will make you feel more confident.
Call, write or email
If you know the person you are asking well, pick-up the phone and ask them in person. If they live in the area, make an appointment to stop by and ask them face-to-face.
If you have a list of potential sponsors that you do not know as well, write them a letter and enclose a stamped, self-addressed return envelope for them to send back their pledge.
If you have individuals email addresses and you know they like to communicate through email, go for it!
Remember to say "Thank You"
Never take a donation of time or money for granted. Thank EVERY person for their support - those who make a donation or pledge AND even thank those who said no by letting them know you appreciate their time and consideration. It is common for a person to change their mind if they are treated thoughtfully and with respect. Please give each of your sponsors the thank you note/tax record. You received two in your fundraiser envelope, if you need more print them off by clicking on the link in the box above.
Campaign and Volunteer Verification
If a prospective donor has questions about the campaign that you aren't comfortable answering, you may refer them to the Central Catholic Web Site or contact the Central Catholic Development Office - (503) 230-1056 ext. 143. |
