Start with a list.
Most people start by crafting a message and sending it to whoever comes to mind first. We suggest flipping that. Start by making a list. Scroll through your contacts, chat groups, and social media connections. Think about colleagues, neighbors, family members, and old friends. Aim for 50 names. Then, once your list is ready, work through it intentionally, sending a personal message to about five people a day.
Text people one at a time.
The most effective thing you can do is also the simplest: a direct, personal message to someone you actually know. Group texts and mass messages are easy to ignore because people don’t feel like you asked them specifically. You asked the group. Reach out to one person at a time and watch how differently people respond.
Ask for a specific amount.
Before you send your link, warm up the conversation first. A quick “hey, do you know anything about Friendship Circle?” or “can I tell you something about what we’ve been part of?” opens the door naturally. By the time you share your page, they’re already with you.
Then ask for a specific number. “Would you be able to give $50?” converts far better than “anything you can.” It gives people something clear to say yes to.
Example: “Hey! I just signed up to walk for Walk4Friendship because I’ve seen firsthand the impact Friendship Circle has on people with special needs. [Add your personal story here.] I’m trying to raise [X] this year. Would you be willing to give $50? Here’s my page: [link]. It means a lot.”
Set micro-goals and update publicly.
A big goal can feel abstract. A small, time-bound goal creates urgency and gives people a reason to act right now. Share where you are and what you need to close the gap, whether on social media, in a group chat, or in a one-on-one message.
“I’m trying to raise $100 today. I’m at $40. Would you help me get there?” “Update: $370 raised! One more person and I hit my goal for the day.” “Hit $400, thank you!! Going for $500 by the end of the week. Who’s in?”
Post your why before you post your ask.
On social media, lead with your story, not your link. Tell people what Friendship Circle means to you, your family, or someone you love. What changed. What you’ve seen. What keeps you coming back? Post that first, followed by the ask and the link.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with a short video from your phone. It doesn’t need to be polished. It just needs to be sincere.
Go back to last year’s donors first.
If you’ve fundraised for Walk4Friendship before, your past donors are your easiest yeses. A simple “you gave last year, and it meant so much, I’m doing it again” converts at a much higher rate than any cold ask. Start there.
The money is in the follow-up.
If someone doesn’t respond to your message or says they’ll donate but you don’t see it, assume they forgot. People want to support you, but life gets busy. A friendly follow-up a couple of days later isn’t pushy. It’s helpful.
The bottom line:
You don’t need to be a professional fundraiser. You need a list, your own voice and experience, and the willingness to reach out. If you get out there and ask, you’ll give so many people the chance to be part of something special, and you’ll crush your goal in the process.
Any questions or need support? Reach out to [email protected].
We got you.
