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3 Ways to Host a Fundraiser for the Xerces Society

By Melissa Manuel on 19. November 2024
Melissa Manuel

At the Xerces Society, we know that protecting invertebrates creates a powerful ripple effect across some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges by helping to address climate change, restore biodiversity, and prevent the extinction of vital species. 

By conserving the ‘little things that run the world’, we support the foundation of strong, healthy ecosystems that benefit us all. This essential work would not be possible without the generosity of supporters like you. We’d love to have you join us in raising awareness and funds for this important work that means so much to all of us.

Hosting a fundraiser is a wonderful way to support invertebrate conservation. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, wedding, anniversary, housewarming, graduation, retirement, or holiday, any occasion can be a great reason to give back. You can also dedicate a fundraiser in honor of someone special, or simply create one for any reason that moves you. Days like Giving Tuesday or Earth Day are especially meaningful times to host a fundraiser.

It is simple. Just select one of three online platforms to fundraise through and help protect the invertebrates you love.

 

Bumble bee nectaring on a field of flowers with mountains in the background
Bumble bees are some of the invertebrates that we work to protect. The Xerces is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, meaning that we rely on donations to keep running. (Photo: Molly Martin / Xerces Society.)

 

1. Xerces Peer-to-Peer Fundraisers 

Peer-to-peer fundraising allows you to raise donations from your community of friends and family. It’s quick and easy to get started: just a few minutes to create your personal fundraiser page and launch your campaign. From there, you can email friends and share your fundraiser on social media right from the platform. Your fundraising dashboard will help you track your progress, and all funds go directly to Xerces to further our conservation work.

Need assistance? We’re here to help! Reach out anytime at 503-468-6602 or [email protected].

 

Create a Xerces Fundraiser

 

2. Facebook

Facebook offers an easy and familiar way to fundraise. Go to the “Fundraisers” section, select the Xerces Society as your nonprofit, set a fundraising goal, and customize your page with a few personal touches. Then, invite friends to support your cause, or share the fundraiser across your Facebook network.

 

Create a Facebook Fundraiser

 

3. Instagram

Instagram allows you to link a Xerces fundraiser to your profile and your posts. Simply select the Xerces Society as your chosen nonprofit when creating posts, reels, or live videos, and your followers can donate directly from each piece of content where the fundraiser is tagged.

 

Create an Instagram Fundraiser

 

Tips for Success on Any Platform

Here are a few easy strategies for hosting a successful online fundraiser: 

  • Provide a basic explanation of the Xerces Society.
  • Explain why you personally care about Xerces and invertebrates. Focus on something you are excited about and that excitement will spread!
  • Be the first to donate to your fundraiser. Even a few dollars show that you, too, are invested in the cause and can generate momentum toward your goal.
  • Keep your fundraiser short and sweet. We suggest no more than three weeks. 
  • Remind and update your network about the fundraiser. Share a few different appeals and send updates when certain milestones are achieved toward your goal. 
  • Livestreaming or talking in-person can be more engaging than static posts or emails. 
  • Get creative! Make your fundraiser fun and unique.
  • Find a way to thank everyone who participates in your fundraiser. 

 

Thank You

Finally, we want to extend a huge thank-you for considering hosting a fundraiser for  Xerces. Our work wouldn’t be possible without the incredible dedication of our supporters. Together, we’re making a difference for the world’s invertebrates—and we’re so grateful to have you on our team!

 

Authors

Melissa Manuel

Melissa joined Xerces in 2022 as the Donor Engagement Specialist, working with the Membership team. She is a "retired" young farmer with over a decade of expertise in urban farming, agroforestry, garden design and education. Before joining Xerces, she worked as a horticulturist at Leach Botanical Garden. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Portland State University and has worked with a number of environmental non-profit groups throughout her career.

Your Support Makes a Difference!

Xerces’ conservation work is powered by our donors. Your tax-deductible donation will help us to protect the life that sustains us.