Get5: Start Here
The Get5 Challenge is the simplest and most effective fundraising strategy we know. Instead of worrying about how much money you'll raise, focus on finding five donors.
That's the secret.
Most people think, "How am I going to raise $150?" or "How will I ever get to $500?" The Get5 Challenge asks a different question: "Who are the first five people I can ask?))
When you focus on donors instead of dollars, fundraising becomes much less intimidating. And here's the surprising part: once you find five donors, you'll often find a sixth. Then a seventh. Then an eighth...
That's why Get5 works.The money takes care of itself when you focus on people who know you and care about what you're doing.
Why it works
- It shifts your focus: finding five supporters feels much easier than trying to hit a fundraising goal.
- People support people: most donations happen because someone makes a personal ask.
- Success builds momentum: once your first donors give, fundraising becomes easier and more enjoyable.
- It works at every level: whether you're aiming for a Bandana, a Hundred Hoodie, or simply supporting your local charity, everything starts with your first five donors.
The Old Top Ten List
Some people love a clear target. Maybe that's you. So, instead of trying to reach everyone you know, make a list of the 10 people most likely to support you and concentrate your efforts there.
Not 100 people. Not your entire contact list. Just ten people who know you, care about you, and are likely to respond.
Great candidates include...
- Yourself (lead by example!).
- Members of your faith community.
- Long-time supporters of causes you care about.
Why it works
- Focus beats volume: a thoughtful ask to ten people often outperforms a generic message sent to hundreds.
- Less intimidating: you only have one job: connect personally with your Top 10.
- More meaningful: you'll spend less time broadcasting and more time building relationships.
Get It Done!
The One-Week Sprint is exactly what it sounds like: dedicate one focused week to fundraising, then move on with your life.
Many participants raise most of their money during a single focused week of effort.
Sample Week
Day 1: Set up your page and draft your email.
Day 2: Send personal asks to your top supporters.
Day 3: Follow up with anyone you missed.
Day 4: Share your story online.
Day 5: Thank donors as gifts come in.
Day 6: Follow up with your Top 10.
Day 7: Celebrate your progress and then stop!
Why it works
- Creates urgency: deadlines help people take action.
- Prevents procrastination: instead of waiting for motivation, you commit to a short burst of effort.
- Fits busy schedules: you don't have to think about fundraising every day for months.
What Do You Want?
Many donors don't know what amount to give. You email them and they think, "What should I give?"
Help them.
Instead of saying, "Give whatever you can," ask for a specific amount right in your email. $25. $50. $100 - you decide.
You'll be surprised how many people appreciate having a clear invitation.
Sample Ask
Hi _______,
This September I'm taking part in Hard Place Walk to support ___________. Would you consider making a $50 donation to support my walk?
You can donate securely using the link below.
Thank you for considering it. I really appreciate your support.
Your friend,
_____________
Why it works
- Removes uncertainty: people don't have to guess what you're asking for.
- Makes decisions easier: specific requests are often easier to respond to than open-ended ones.
- Creates momentum: once one person gives, others often follow.
Get Your Fun Going
Fundraising shouldn't have to be serious all the time.
Offer to do something memorable, fun, unusual, or slightly ridiculous if people support your walk. Things like:
- Complete a personal challenge.
The more authentic it feels, the better. People love supporting someone and something they can talk about.
Why it works
- Gets attention. people notice things that are different.
- Creates conversation: supporters are more likely to share your campaign.
- Makes fundraising fun: you'll enjoy the experience more and that enthusiasm is contagious.
Your Why Matters
People don't just give to causes. People give because someone they know invited them into a story. So tell them online.
- Tell people why you're walking.
- Tell them why the charity matters.
- Tell them what you've learned.
Share updates, photos, milestones, and moments along the way. You don't need to post every day. You just need to be authentic. They'll love it.
Why it works
- Keeps your campaign visible: people are busy and often need reminders.
- Builds connection: stories inspire action more than statistics.
- Encourages sharing: your supporters can help spread the word.
It's Your Turn To Aslk
Think about all the people you've supported over the years. Admit it, you've been generous.
Now it's your turn to ask. That's right - it's time to call in your aces.
Reach out personally and let them know you're walking and would value their support and watch the giving from you come full circle.
Why it works
- Relationships matter: people support people.
- Generosity is contagious: the support you've given often comes back in unexpected ways.
- Personal asks feel natural: you're inviting people into something meaningful—not making a sales pitch.
Last Tip
The best fundraising strategy isn't the most creative one it's the one you'll actually do.
- Aim for the Hundred Hoodie Hurry.
Then choose one or two ideas above that fit your personality and get started and of course, have fun.