What is fundraising?

Fundraising can be a critical part of projects as it often enables campaigns to be sustainable over longer periods. Whether or not you want to try to raise funds - and how - will depend on your local circumstances and what projects you are planning.

If you want to raise general funds for a cause, the best option is to do so on behalf of an established non-governmental organization. Many organizations have fundraising campaigns that involve local volunteers and projects. Always contact an organization in advance: you must have their official permission to raise funds in their name!

Whether you are raising funds for an established organization or for a project of your own, remember the following guidelines:

• The purpose for which you are fundraising must be absolutely clear.
• Any money raised must be used for the stated purpose and no other.
• You should keep careful accounts of any money you raise and what you spend it on, recording even the smallest amounts.
• Any money raised must be kept safely, preferably in a bank account opened in the name of your group.
• It may be a good idea to ask a responsible adult to 'audit' your accounts, so there can be no question of misuse of funds.

There are many ways of raising funds, from simple collecting boxes and doing odd jobs to organizing sponsored walks and more elaborate events such as concerts and fairs!