07.15.2024
How to Start a Fundraiser or Drive
So you found a cause that compels you to get involved — that’s great! The biggest thing on your mind is probably, “What now?” You’ve shared posts on social media, volunteered your time, donated money every now and then, and you still want to do more. Enter the world of drives and fundraising!
What’s the Difference Between a Drive and a Fundraiser?
A drive gathers items to donate to an organization, and a fundraiser collects money to donate to an organization. When hosting a drive, it’s always a good idea to ask the benefiting organization what items they need most.
You can check out Treehouse’s critical need supply list. We use these items to keep the Treehouse Store stocked with clothing, books, toys, and more for participants of all ages to browse during their free shopping trips.
Hosting a Drive or Fundraiser for Beginners
Like any event, you first need to decide the five w’s:
- Who you’ll donate to. Think about what causes and values you’d like to support so you can find organizations you’d like to help. Once you’ve made your choice, reach out to them for details on fundraising or starting a drive for them.
At Treehouse, we are focused on creating an equitable journey for Washington state youth experiencing foster care to build the life of their dreams. This means we work to remove barriers to education and provide experiences, materials and tools for young people to thrive and succeed. - What you’d like to donate. See the section above for the difference between a drive and fundraiser. If you’re hosting a drive, consult the organization for needed items. You can find Treehouse’s wishlist here.
If you’re hosting a fundraiser, Treehouse has a handy fundraiser starter guide. If you’re hosting a drive, make it official by filling out the Drive Sign-up Form. - When your donation deadline will be. The ideal length for an individual fundraiser or drive is 3 to 4 weeks. That gives your network time to get curious about your campaign and respond to your request for donations.
- Where people can donate. Decide whether you want to collect donations in person or online. If you have an in-person event, you will have to figure out delivery logistics, such as shipping or personally dropping off the goods.
- Why you decided to start a fundraiser or drive. Don’t forget to tell your network your “why.” Whether it’s due to a birthday, anniversary, or a personal story, letting them know your motivation this can help guide you in the planning and make it a meaningful experience for everyone.
After you have the details mapped out, you just need to work up a flyer, email or social media post to share the news with your family, friends, coworkers and local community. If you’re stuck in planning your drive or need troubleshooting help with your fundraiser, you can contact us at Drives@treehouseforkids.org.
Fundraiser Ideas and Drive Inspiration
There are just about a million ways to put the fun in fundraisers and make your drive thrive. Take a cue from some easy and downright creative drives and fundraisers our community members have hosted for Treehouse in the past.
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Baby’s First Drive To celebrate their little one’s year of firsts, this couple hosted a birthday party where guests brought clothes, toys, and school supplies to be donated to Treehouse. How many one-year-olds can say they are already helping to improve the world around them? |
| Collective Power The UA Local 32 union representing pipefitters, plumbers, and HVAC/refrigeration professionals banded together to collect $3,000 worth of monetary donations and goods for Treehouse youth! |
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Raise a Glass & Awareness Washington winery EFESTĒ (pronounced “ef-es-tee”) threw a Boots & Bling-themed summer party in support of Treehouse. Guests got decked out in their glitziest western wear to sample the season’s wines, enjoy good music and dance the night away. |
| Artfully Done What’s an art gallery to do when they’re unexpectedly gifted not one but two rocks thrown through their windows? Craft googly eyes to the Rocks of Destruction and put them up for sale for the sake of Treehouse! |
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Make It Your Business Give & Groove is a local operation that makes your charitable heart beat in time to local DJs sets. Their Revel Party Series benefits a new nonprofit at each event, and Treehouse was lucky enough to make the cut. |
| Kids in Kind While shopping for clothes ahead of the new year, this family asks the children to also pick an outfit to donate to Treehouse. The parents say it’s a great way to help their kids understand that not everyone has the same resources and opportunities they have. |
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To explore your fundraising options, our resources kits and more, visit our Host a Drive or Event page. There you can find our 2024 Back-to-School Drives Toolkit and see the Treehouse Store Wishlist.
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