How to Get Media Coverage For Your Fundraiser

The first step is to make sure your fundraiser stands out. A few simple ways to do that are to:

• • Make sure you have high-quality fundraiser photos
  • Consider creating a fundraiser video to summarize your cause
  • Double-check that your fundraiser title is clear and captivating
  • Edit your fundraiser story to include key aspects a reporter will look for like who, what, where, and when

Fundraising Fact: Online fundraisers with a personalized video raise 105% more than those without, according to Fundly.

The next lesson on how to get media coverage for your fundraiser is all about social media. A great way to spread awareness is to share information about your fundraiser on social media. For those who may not feel super comfortable on social media don’t worry, we’ll teach you how to promote your fundraiser effectively. A few top tips include:

• Tag local influencers and ask them to share your fundraiser with their social community
• Use relevant hashtags to gain more reach
• Share consistently – 1-2 times a week is a great start

Fundraising Fact: Fundly found that 12% of Facebook shares convert to donations.

This is your chance to give the media something to talk about. There’s no shortage of fundraising event ideas but try to find something related to your cause. For example, if you’re raising funds for a new track and field at the local high school consider hosting a fundraiser walk. Invite the local media to cover the event. Don’t forget to take lots of photos and videos to post on your online fundraiser and on social media.

Remember reporters are looking for stories that fit their beat as well as the mission of the outlet they work for. This research will help your pitches go farther by catering them to the reporters you’re reaching out to. Some outlets will have their contact information on their website. Some journalists include their email in their social media bios. Compile all the contact information you can find in a list to help keep everything organized.

Do

• Create a list of relevant reporters and media outlets

Don’t

• Reach out to only 1 journalist or 1 media outlet – cast your net wide

We understand that in the midst of everything else you’re doing that this step may feel unnecessary to some. But did you know according to Buzzstream 64% of writers believe it is important to create a connection before sending your pitch? This simple step could unlock the press coverage your fundraiser deserves.

Do

• Interact with their content by liking, commenting, or sharing it
• Focus on LinkedIn and Twitter since journalists use those platforms the most

Don’t

• Tag them in other people’s content that isn’t relevant to your story

Buzzstream found that 44% of journalists get at least 20 pitches each day. So how do you make your pitch stand out? One of the most important parts of this step is to make sure you’re pitching your story and not an issue. The personal aspects of your fundraiser are what will make it compelling to a reporter. Not to mention those personal details can bring an issue to life.

Do

• Introduce yourself and anyone who is involved in the fundraiser
• Tell your story – the who, what, where, and why
• Include photos and videos to grab their attention
• Show them that you’re familiar with their work

Don’t

• Bury the lead – be as clear as possible
• Add unnecessary details that muddy the story
• Don’t exaggerate – stick to the facts

So you’ve polished your fundraiser, researched journalists, wrote your pitches, and sent them out, now what? If a journalist hasn’t gotten back to you in about a week, you should follow up with a short message. Remember the newsroom is always bustling so they may need a reminder before getting back to you.

Do

• Ask if there is any additional information you can provide
• Thank the reporters for reading about your story
• Provide your contact information so they can follow up

Don’t

• Don’t spam reporters excessively