Fundraising Ideas for Virtual and In-Person Events

There’s no one right way to fundraise for Shine for MAC—just your way. Whether you're going virtual, getting active, or gathering your community in person, you’re helping individuals with autism and their families shine a little brighter.

Below are flexible, creative fundraising ideas designed for all comfort levels. Start with what feels doable for you. Add your personal fundraising page link to everything you do, and don’t forget to share your “why.”

Why I Shine
Use a photo or short message to share why you're participating in Shine for MAC. Whether your connection is personal or simply rooted in compassion, your story helps others understand the cause and inspires them to give.

Share Your Journey
If MAC has impacted your family, consider posting a “then and now” photo or video that shows progress. Whether it’s first words, a new friendship, or a new routine, your story shows the power of support in action.

Milestone Moments
Celebrate an achievement—big or small—and invite others to donate in honor of it. “We’re celebrating 5 days of brushing teeth without a behavior—help us mark it with a $5 donation to Shine for MAC!”

31 Days for 1 in 31
Autism affects 1 in 31 children in the U.S. Share one short story, moment, or quote each day for 31 days to raise awareness and invite support. This is a meaningful way to shine a light all month long.

Birthday or Special Occasion Fundraiser
Instead of gifts, ask friends and family to donate to your Shine for MAC page in honor of your birthday, anniversary, or graduation. It’s a simple and powerful way to celebrate while giving back.

Online Challenge or Campaign
Start a creative challenge—like sharing artwork, a dance, or random acts of kindness—and ask your community to participate and donate. Bonus if it ties into “shine” (e.g., “Brightest Outfit Challenge”).

Shine Your Own Way: Walk, Run, or Roll
Host your own walk or run—solo or with a small group. Set a goal, invite people to sponsor your miles, and share your journey online. Whether it’s one mile or 31, every step counts.

Sunrise Stretch or Yoga Flow
Invite others to start their day with peace and purpose by hosting a morning yoga or stretch session—virtually or in person. Donations can be collected to join or simply in honor of the practice.

Biking for Belonging
Commit to a number of miles or rides and use it as a way to raise awareness. Post photos along the way, and invite others to sponsor your rides in support of Shine for MAC.

Mindfulness Month
Challenge yourself to 30 days of meditation, journaling, or gratitude—and invite friends and family to support your commitment with donations. It’s a beautiful way to focus on care, reflection, and community.

Step Challenge
Set a step goal for the month (e.g., 150,000 steps in 30 days) and ask for pledges per 1,000 steps. Share your progress as you go—and don’t forget to post your Shine fundraising link.

Shine Snack Stand
Set up a lemonade or snack stand in your driveway or at a community event. Add a sign about Shine for MAC and collect donations while sharing a little brightness with your neighbors.

Craft or Bake Sale
Sell baked goods, crafts, or homemade items with proceeds going to Shine for MAC. You can even host this as a pop-up at a local market, school, or business.

Garage Sale for MAC
Turn your spring cleaning into a fundraiser. Host a garage or yard sale and let visitors know their purchases are supporting autism services at MAC Midwest.

Trivia or Bingo Night
Bring friends or neighbors together for a fun game night at your home or a local venue. Collect a small entry fee or suggested donation to support your Shine campaign.

Business Partner Day
Ask a local coffee shop, restaurant, or boutique if they’d donate a portion of their sales for one day to your Shine for MAC efforts. You bring in traffic—they help raise awareness and funds.

Shine Jar at Checkout
With permission, place a donation jar at a local store, salon, or café with a short message about Shine for MAC. It’s a great way to collect small gifts from big-hearted strangers.

• Always include your donation link in every post, story, or event.

• Share your “why.” People give to people, not just causes.

• Use the hashtag #ShineForMAC to connect your story to the bigger movement.

• Show impact. Let donors know their gift supports tools, training, and programs that help kids with autism thrive.

• Say thank you—often. Gratitude is powerful and keeps people engaged.