We’re living in an age where social media connects us like never before, platforms like Facebook and Instagram have become powerful tools for raising funds for causes close to our heart. When it comes to celebrating milestones like a birthday, wedding or graduation many of our supporters are turning to social platforms like Instagram or Facebook with built in fundraising tools offering straightforward ways to rally support without ever having to leave the app. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start your own fundraiser on these platforms.

Step 1: Define Your Why

Before diving into the technical steps, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your cause. Ask yourself: WHY is this cause important to you and why should your community take action?

Having a compelling personal story will motivate your audience to contribute more and optimizing your fundraiser with a profile is likely to make your followers feel more connected to your cause.

Step 2: Choose Your Platform

Both Facebook and Instagram offer unique features for fundraisers:

• Facebook Fundraisers: This option allows you to create a dedicated page for your fundraiser, making it easier for people to find and donate.
• Instagram Fundraisers: While Instagram doesn’t have a standalone fundraising page, you can create fundraisers through Stories, using stickers that link directly to your fundraiser on Facebook. Instagram also delivers a unique notification to your followers when you set up an Instagram Fundraiser

Choose the platform that best aligns with your audience and your goals.

Step 3: Set Up Your Fundraiser

Facebook Instructions

1. Log In: Sign in to your Facebook account.
2. Navigate to Fundraisers: Click on the “Fundraisers” option in the menu on the left side of your homepage.
3. Create Fundraiser: Click on the “Create Fundraiser” button.
4. Select a Nonprofit: You can either choose a nonprofit organization or raise money for yourself or someone you know. If you choose a nonprofit, search for their name and select them.
5. Set Your Goal: Determine how much money you want to raise. Make sure it’s a realistic amount based on your cause and your network.
6. Write Your Story: Share your story in a compelling way. Explain why you’re raising money, how the funds will be used, and why it matters.
7. Add a Cover Photo: Choose an eye-catching image that represents your cause. This will help draw people in.
8. Publish: Once everything looks good, click on “Create” to publish your fundraiser.

Instagram Instructions

1. Tap “+” on the top right of your screen.
2. Select “Post”, choose an image, and tap “Next”.
3. Under your image, select “Add Fundraiser”.
4. Enter the charity you want to raise money for and select it from the menu.
5. Add details on the “Fundraiser Details” page, tap “Add”, then tap “Share”.
6. The fundraiser will be visible in the post, and you can add a link to your profile bio.

Step 4: Promote Your Fundraiser

After setting up your fundraiser, it’s time to spread the word:

• Share on Your Timeline: Post about your fundraiser on your Facebook timeline and encourage your friends to share it.
• Use Stories and Posts on Instagram: Share your fundraiser link in your Instagram bio or use the Stories feature to promote it. Use engaging visuals and compelling captions.
• Engage Your Network: Tag friends and family who might be interested in supporting your cause, and personally reach out to potential donors.

Step 5: Keep Your Donors Updated

Communication is key to maintaining momentum:

• Post Updates: Share regular updates on your fundraiser’s progress and how the funds are being used. This transparency helps build trust.
• Thank Donors: Acknowledge and thank your donors publicly (if they’re comfortable with it) to show your appreciation. Personalized messages can also make a big difference.

That’s it! It’s that easy to leverage your network to make a difference. Once you get started with your first social media fundraiser you will be amazed at how quickly the dollars start rolling in, once you start putting your heart into it.