Empowering Your Supporters:

For nonprofits, engaging your supporters in meaningful ways is key to expanding your impact. One powerful way to do this is by encouraging your supporters to create their own fundraising campaigns on behalf of your organization. Not only does this help raise additional funds, but it also expands your reach by tapping into your supporters' personal networks. By enabling your advocates to fundraise, you create a ripple effect that brings new awareness to your cause and engages people who may not have been reached through your direct efforts.

The Power of Peer-to-Peer Fundraising One popular method of supporter-led fundraising is through peer-to-peer campaigns, such as 5K run/walk events, which serve as perfect opportunities for supporters to rally their friends, family, and coworkers. 

When your supporters create personal fundraising campaigns, they do more than just raise money—they become ambassadors for your cause. By sharing their personal connection to your mission and telling their own stories, they explain why your organization matters to them. This type of peer-to-peer fundraising is powerful because people are more likely to donate when asked by someone they know and trust. 



Moreover, these campaigns help extend your reach; each supporter has their own network of family, friends, colleagues, and social media followers. Through personal fundraisers, your supporters introduce your nonprofit to a wider audience who may not have been familiar with your work before. 

How to Encourage Supporters to Start Fundraising 

Make It Easy: Provide user-friendly tools for your supporters to set up their own fundraising campaigns. For example, with our 5K event on RunSignUp.com, participants can easily create their own fundraising teams or groups to raise money on behalf of our charity. In just a few steps, they can invite friends, family, and coworkers to join their team or donate, making it simple for them to engage their networks and support your mission. 

Offer Guidance: By offering clear instructions and guidance, such as messaging templates, graphics, and tips for running successful campaigns, you can streamline the process and make it effortless for your supporters to engage their networks and support your mission. 

Highlight Success Stories: Share examples of successful supporter-led campaigns to inspire others. For instance, Missing Pieces Support Group has highlighted the story of Frances Leulliette, their running influencer, who has raised over $600 on behalf of their mission. Featuring these success stories in your newsletter or on social media can motivate more supporters to get involved and show the tangible impact of peer-to-peer fundraising. 

Show Appreciation: Always recognize and thank those who fundraise on your behalf. Whether it’s through a public shoutout on social media or a personal thank-you note, expressing gratitude goes a long way in encouraging continued support.