1. Context: Some people may avoid fundraising due to negative associations with sales. Remember, you’re not selling something unwanted—you’re offering an opportunity for someone to feel good by supporting a worthy cause. Giving makes people feel good.

2. Keep it short: All our materials are designed to convey essential information quickly. For example, the B2M NorCal homepage takes just 2.5 to 3 minutes to read and provides everything needed to decide on supporting. Avoid lengthy emails, texts, or conversations—direct people to the available info and ask them to watch the video. Most will decide whether to support after watching. Keep it simple.

3. Get their support, even when they have financial objections: If someone says they already have a charity they give to or that they can't make a contribution for financial reasons, tell them that donating is not just about the money, it is about the cause. The number of contributors tangibly increases the statistic of how many people in the community support having Boys To Men Mentoring Programs for at-risk youth in our schools. Ask them if they would be willig to show their support for the program by donating $2. Most anyone can do this. They can make their name and/or their donation amount annonymous.

4. Questions: Some donors (especially those considering giving large amounts) and businesses interested in sponsorship, may want more information than you are prepared to deliver. You may be able to find the answers on our website, if not, please contact B2M NorCal for accurate answers to help potential donors or sponsors make informed decisions. Reach out via email, phone call, or speak with a B2M representative at a ZOOM-A-THON meeting.

5. Attend ZOOM-A-THONS: Fundraising is more enjoyable with a group! Join a Zoom for support with your follow-up calls. Zooms are a great place to ask questions, share your experiences, overcome challenges, and celebrate with fellow fundraisers. Don't see a Zoom you can attend? Contact B2M.

6. Fundraise with a Buddy: Pick a time with someone or a create a group. Pick a time each week to make calls. Get on a call, three-way or conference to talk with your buddy/s before and after the designated calling time. Report progress to each other through a group text. This is a fun way to support calling and help you get exponential results.

7. Community: Connect with others who care about the positive impact mentoring has on our youth. Attend B2M sponsored events. At the end of the campaign there will be a closing celebration meeting on Zoom.

8. Get Sponsorships: Call on business owners and managers of businesses you frequent or that are in your area. They may have funds available if you simply ask. Many businesses have matching funds available for their employees as well. See the Sponsorship section on this page.

You can download this image and send it by text or email. Be sure to send the link to your page as well as it is difficult to scan a QR off a flyer received as a text.

High resolution print versions are also available as well as quarter page hand-outs. Go to the Flyers and Handouts page.