
When looking to volunteer - there tends to be only one major factor that holds people back……. expense! Fundraising is an integral part of any expedition or volunteer placement and, in many ways, it may appear to be the most difficult challenge you will face. Remember though however daunting it may seem it has been achieved by countless other volunteers.
The best part of applying directly to organisations is that the total cost is generally much lower than using another organisation as a middle man. Many or the volunteer organisations featured within the members area also only require a small deposit or no upfront payment at all.
The best way to ensure success with your fundraising is to mix individual with group fundraising, so events as well as grant applications.
There are basically four main ways of raising the funds:
1. Fundraising Activities
These events include bag packing, cake stalls, collections, sponsored events, car boot sales, swap shops, fun days, themed parties etc.
2. Raffles and Prize Draws
Throughout the year Sustainable Vision will conduct various prize draws, tickets for the prize draw can be bought by volunteers and organisations for a fee of £1 a ticket and sold for between £1 - £2 a ticket by the volunteer or organisation. A portion of the profits from the ticket sales will go towards the Sustainable Vision Grant fund. You can always create your own raffle or prize draw also.
3. Working for it
Part time jobs, holiday jobs and Christmas jobs - even a few hours a week will bump up that volunteer fund and make those targets even more achievable.
4. Grants and Sponsorship
Applying to local companies, trusts, schools and universities for funding. Groups such as the Round Table, Lions International, Rotary Club, and parish councils are usually only too happy to help. Sustainable Vision will soon be taking applications for the Sustainable Vision Grant Fund from volunteers and volunteer organisations. This fund will be created with a portion of the membership fee and a portion of profits from any sales of merchandise and raffle tickets, further information can be found in the volunteer resources section.