Fundraising 101

At the end of Big Event in March, hundreds of students stand together in Maucker Union waiting for the signs to flip and reveal our final fundraising total. Every single dollar in that total represents hope, healing, and life-changing support. From funding specialized research and life-saving medical equipment to providing emotional care programs to the kiddos at the Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. That final total is only possible because of you—because of every text and email sent, every story shared, and every dancer, exec member, and morale captain giving it their absolute all throughout the year. 

We made this Fundraising 101 guide to give you all the tools and templates you need to not just hit your goal, but surpass it! 

TEXT, TEXT, TEXT

The BEST way to raise money is to directly text people. Text aunts, uncles, grandparents, friends, coworkers, your boss, former teachers, DM alumni, coaches, and family friends. Personalize our text templates, share your goal for the day, and don’t forget to include your DonorDrive link! 

Personalize your DonorDrive Page

Upload a profile picture, share your “why”, add photos of events, explain why you joined DM and what it means to you. It’s been proven that people are more willing to donate if you customize your profile! 

Post on social media

Post fun incentives! For example, for every $15 donated, post an embarrassing photo of yourself. Use your social media all throughout the day to keep the momentum going. Share progress updates, make a bingo board for people to fill out, or post a personal story. 

Email your professors

Many professors love supporting their students! Make sure to keep your tone professional, share your fundraising goal, explain what UNI DM is, and use proper email etiquette. To save time on Push Day, write these emails a few days before and schedule them to send on Push Day. 

Alternative methods to fundraising

Collect cans and bottles and take them to the redemption center, collect spare change, or ask for a donation instead of a gift for your birthday or holidays. You can also offer quick side-hustles like babysitting, pet sitting, or yard work in exchange for donations toward your goal! 

Who to contact for help

Advancement Director

Riley Samuelson - advancement@unidancemarathon.com

Finance Director

Jaci Degroot - finance@unidancemarathon.com 

Check out our fundraising packet for more information about fundraising, text/email templates, and more creative fundraising ideas! 

Our first official Push Day of the year starts on October 28th! Use this guide to customize your page, schedule some emails, and prep your contact list so you can make the most out of our 24-hour fundraising push. Every dollar counts for the kiddos!