Fundraising Toolkit
Every Step Saves a Life
Thank you for joining the Walk for the Animals! By registering, you've already taken the first step toward helping homeless pets in our community. Now, it's time to make an even bigger impact.
Every dollar you raise provides food, shelter, medical care, enrichment, and hope for animals waiting for loving homes. Whether you raise $50 or $5,000, you are changing lives!
Fundraising may seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Most participants reach their goal simply by asking the people they know and sharing why they care.
We've put together these tips and resources to help you succeed.
10 Easy Ways to Reach Your Goal
1. Make the First Gift
Kickstart your fundraising by making the first donation yourself. When others see you've invested in the cause, they're more likely to support you, too. Bonus tip: Make it a match and announce that you'll double any donations up to the amount of your gift!
2. Personalize Your Fundraising Page
Log into your Fundraising Dashboard (click "Sign In or Sign Up" at the top right corner of this screen). Scroll down to "Edit your Personal Page" on the left hand side. Edit your bio to tell your story. Why do animals matter to you? Did you adopt a pet? Volunteer? Foster? Share a favorite photo of your pet and explain why you're walking.
People give to people, not just organizations.
3. Set a Fundraising Goal
People are more likely to donate when they know what you're trying to accomplish. Aim high. You might be surprised by how quickly you reach it.
4. Ask Early and Often
Don't wait until the week of the event. Start asking now, then follow up with reminders as the Walk for the Animals gets closer.
5. Share on Social Media
Post updates throughout your fundraising journey. Celebrate milestones, thank donors, and remind friends why homeless pets need our help.
6. Send Personal Messages
Emails, text messages, and Facebook Messenger requests are often much more effective than general social media posts.
7. Ask Everyone
Friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, classmates, your veterinarian, groomer, favorite coffee shop, or anyone who loves animals may be happy to support you.
8. Share Progress
People enjoy helping you cross the finish line. Let everyone know when you're halfway to your goal or only a few dollars away.
9. Thank Every Donor
A simple thank-you message goes a long way and makes donors more likely to support you again in the future.
10. Have Fun!
Every conversation you have helps spread awareness for homeless pets. You are directly making a difference in the lives of these pets!
Sample Fundraising Message
Hi friends!
I'm participating in this year's Walk for the Animals to help homeless pets at Capital Area Humane Society.
Every day, animals arrive needing food, shelter, medical care, and a second chance. I'm walking to help give them that chance.
Would you consider making a donation to support my fundraising goal? Every gift, no matter the amount, helps provide lifesaving care for animals in our community.
You can donate here:
[Insert Personal Fundraising Link]
Thank you for helping me make a difference for pets who need us most!
Sample Facebook Post
I'm walking in the Walk for the Animals on October 3 because every homeless pet deserves a safe place to land.
The money I raise will help provide food, shelter, medical care, and love for animals waiting for new homes at the Capital Area Humane Society.
If you're able, I'd be grateful if you'd make a donation to my fundraising page. Every dollar makes a difference for pets who need us most.
Donate here:
[Insert Personal Fundraising Page Link]
Thank you for helping save lives!
Sample Text Message
Hi! I'm fundraising for the Walk for the Animals to help homeless pets at Capital Area Humane Society. Would you consider making a donation? Even $10 or $20 helps provide lifesaving care for animals waiting for homes. Thank you! Here's my link: [Insert Personal Fundraising Page Link]
Make an Even Bigger Impact
Ask your employer if they offer a matching gift program. Many companies will match charitable donations made by employees, doubling the impact of your supporters' generosity.
Need Help?
We're here to support you every step of the way.
If you have questions about fundraising, your personal page, or need ideas to help reach your goal, please contact us at events@AdoptLansing.org or (517) 626-6060 Ext. 125.
We're happy to help!
Remember Why You Walk
Every wagging tail.
Every gentle purr.
Every frightened animal who arrives at our doors.
Every happy adoption.
It all begins because compassionate people, like you, choose to care.
Thank you for walking. Thank you for fundraising. Thank you for giving homeless pets the second chance they deserve!