Emergency Assistance Fund Expenses: Some Considerations
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While most relief funds rely almost uniquely on team member contributions for funding, there are many ways to raise money at the outset and over the long-term that go beyond team member contributions. To maximize a fund’s potential, it is important to think outside the box and come up with creative ways to keep the contributions coming in.
Starting at the top is an excellent way to get a cash infusion. Top executives can make donations to help get a fund to a certain goal amount, or even to get the ball rolling initially as the fund launches. A clever fundraising idea is to consider allowing team members to cash in unused sick days to donate to the fund. It is a painless way to raise money, without the sting of actual cash coming out of the team members pocket.
Encouraging contributions does not have to be boring, either. Consider an annual gala or concert, where team members and community members can purchase tickets to a night out, while benefiting the relief fund. These larger-scale events are highly visible in the community and are very effective at both fundraising and raising awareness.
Smaller fundraising events throughout the year can also have a big payoff over the long-term. Team members might donate $2 to dress down on Fridays, for example. Those sorts of small efforts not only can generate a significant total for contribution to the fund, but can foster a continuing interest and awareness in the fund.
Finally, remember that your community has a stake in the well-being of your team members as well. Soliciting donations from local organizations or by inviting them to participate in your internal fundraising events can be a win-win situation for both the relief fund, and in establishing close ties to other organizations in the places you conduct business.
