Fundraising Tips & Tools
Thank you for signing up to raise funds and awareness for Best Buddies and supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Now let’s get started! Below you will find tools, information, and ideas to help your fundraising efforts. Have fun, be creative and keep going – the more you raise, the more impact you’ll have on the IDD community.
Personalize Your Fundraising Page
You have officially signed up to raise money for Best Buddies – WAY TO GO! Here are a few tips to get you started on your fundraising journey. The first step is customize your personal fundraising page. Let’s go!
1) Log into your fundraising page
Click the “login” link located in the header and enter the username and password you chose when you registered.
2) Set a fundraising goal
Next, enter in the fundraising goal you are aiming to raise. Choose a goal that is attainable, but the sky is the limit!
3) Make it personal
Upload a photo of yourself and customize the text on your fundraising page to make it more personal for your intended audience.
4) Share your link
Now that your page is customized, share your link with friends, family, and others and encourage them to make a donation in support of Best Buddies.
Social Media Tools
Social media is a powerful tool that can lead to some amazing fundraising results. We’ve compiled a list of tools you can use to create and launch an effective fundraising campaign with your personal social media accounts.
“Donate Today” Post Images
Save and use the following images when asking your friends and family to support your fundraising efforts on social media.
Take Your Fundraising to the Next Level
Here are 10 empowering tips for successful DIY fundraising to help get you started!
Share Your “Why”
Let friends and family know why Best Buddies’ mission is meaningful to you—stories create connection and inspire support.
Personalize Your Page
Add photos, your story, and a fundraising goal to make your page unique and help supporters feel invested in your campaign.
Start With Yourself
Make the first donation! This shows your commitment and sets the tone for others to follow.
Spread the Word Early
Share your fundraising page on social media, email, and text. Don’t be shy—people often want to help, they just need to know how.
Get Creative
Tie your fundraiser to a birthday, celebration, or personal goal. Host a virtual event, challenge yourself, or dedicate the campaign in honor or memory of someone special.
Use Social Media Wisely
Post regular updates, thank donors publicly (with their permission), and use photos and hashtags to keep your campaign top-of-mind.
Ask Directly—and Personally
Send personalized messages to friends, colleagues, and family explaining why you care. Direct asks are more effective than group posts alone.
Keep Everyone Updated
Share progress, milestones, and the impact their donations are making. People love to see results!
Express Gratitude
Always thank your supporters—through personal notes, shout-outs, or creative videos. Recognition reinforces goodwill.
Connect to the Mission
Remind everyone that their gift matters.Every dollar supports vital Best Buddies programs that foster inclusion, friendship, and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.