Fundraiser Tools
Fundraising Tips
Thank you for supporting DogFest and Canine Companions! Your fundraising efforts help us place expertly trained service dogs with children, adults, and veterans with disabilities—completely free of charge.
1. Customize Your Personal Fundraising Page
Share why you’re participating in DogFest and why Canine Companions matters to you. Add a photo or video to help personalize your page.
2. Set a Fundraising Goal
Choose a clear fundraising goal and share it with your network. Fundraisers with goals tend to raise more.
3. Start with a Self-Donation
Kickstart your fundraising by making the first donation yourself. This shows your commitment and encourages others to give.
4. Share Your Fundraising Page on Social Media
Post your fundraising page on Facebook and other social platforms. Let your network know why you’re participating and share updates to keep your fundraising visible.
5. Use Our Hashtag
When sharing on social media, tag Canine Companions (@canineorg on Instagram; @caninecompanions on Facebook) and use #CanineDogFest.
6. Send Emails
Use the email templates in your Participant Center or send personal emails with a link to your fundraising page.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask (and Follow Up)
Reach out to family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and local businesses. It’s okay to follow up—many donations come after a reminder.
8. Write a Letter
Send a personal letter explaining why you support DogFest and Canine Companions. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for easy check donations.
9. Check for Matching Gifts
See if your company—or your donors’ companies—offer matching gifts. Matching gifts can double or even triple the impact of a donation.
10. Say Thank You
Thank your donors with a note, email, or social media post. Showing appreciation helps supporters feel valued and engaged.
Recognition Program
Click here to view last year's fundraising recognition program. 2026 update coming soon!
Event Leaderboard
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1
NOVC Blue Crew $4,586.69 raised
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2
Vicki Simons $3,100.00 raised
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3
Catherine Rupp $2,670.77 raised
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4
Sherri Bryant $2,192.95 raised
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5
In memory of Addie Wisniewski $1,210.79 raised
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1
Northern Ohio Volunteer Chapter Team $7,137.55 raised
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2
Buckeye Volunteer Chapter $6,903.00 raised
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3
Badger State Volunteer Chapter $2,670.77 raised
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4
Heartland Chapter $2,395.93 raised
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5
Indiana Volunteer Chapter $1,621.12 raised
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1 Gary Rogers $3,000.00
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2 Hollyfest 2025 Card Transactions $2,891.00
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3 Anonymous $2,500.00
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4 Gloria Praznik $2,000.00
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5 Hollyfest 2025 Cash $1,641.00