Volunteering abroad can be expensive. While most people use their own money to cover travel expenses and the cost of booking their project, many also run fundraising campaigns to support their efforts.

Fundraising is simple enough in theory but it can be difficult knowing where to start! i-volunteer.org.uk has offered some suggestions on the best approach to raising funds for volunteering abroad.

Most importantly, as a fundraiser you should remember that “donors don’t give to institutions. They invest in ideas and people whom they believe”. Whatever fundraising activities you intend to use it is essential that you make sure people know why you are fundraising and what their money will go towards.

“Keep in mind that fundraising is a peoples business. You need to show the donor how you are helping people with your volunteer work, show them how you are going to change peoples’ lives… give them reasons as to why their donations to you are important, and how in some way they will also be doing some good.” Beyond this anything goes! You could sell unwanted clothes on e-Bay, organise a charity fundraising event or even get sponsored to run a marathon!

Once you’ve raised enough money for your volunteer work it’s important to give recognition to the people who have donated. i-volunteer.org.uk advises you to “thank your donors for their contributions and try to tell them how you plan to use their money”. If possible, share your volunteer experience with them through blogs and photos, giving them the satisfaction that their money went to a good cause.

Get in touch with us for more fundraising tips or find out more about our registered charity, the FutureSense Foundation.