Involving Your Digital Audience in Charity Events Online
In the face of the pandemic, a non-profit organisation successfully moved their annual charity run to a virtual format, reaching new heights in fundraising success. The event, which attracted over 1,000 participants from different regions, demonstrated the potential of virtual fundraising events to connect donors from all over the world.
The virtual charity run offered a wider reach, enabling participants to join from the comfort of their homes, increasing flexibility. The event was promoted through social media, email newsletters, and local media, with local businesses sponsoring the event.
The organisers employed best practices for planning, promoting, and executing successful virtual fundraising events. They focused on their audience and goals, tailoring the event to the demographics, interests, and needs of the participants. Engaging virtual event types and formats, such as live workout sessions and motivational talks, were incorporated to enhance engagement.
Compelling and interactive content, including embedded videos and tutorials, was created to keep participants involved and informed. The use of event management tools, such as RunSignUp for registration and Strava for activity tracking, streamlined operations.
Strategic promotion through multiple channels, including email outreach, phone calls, and direct connections, as well as shareable materials and activities, broadened the event's reach. Community bulletin boards and niche online forums relevant to the cause were also utilised for additional visibility.
Beyond the event, the organisers cultivated relationships and donor engagement by offering volunteer opportunities that aligned with donor interests and skills. This fostered emotional investment and trust, ensuring continued support for the cause.
One of the highlights of the virtual charity run was the online auction, where participants bid on items or experiences donated by businesses, community members, or celebrities. Virtual walkathons or runs, where participants committed to walking or running a certain distance and tracked their progress through fitness apps, also proved popular.
High levels of engagement were observed on social media during the event, with participants sharing photos and stories about their runs. Online platforms allowed for easy tracking of participant engagement and donation metrics.
The virtual charity run exceeded its fundraising goal by 50%, demonstrating the potential of virtual fundraising events to offer memorable experiences that resonate with audiences and achieve fundraising goals. The organisers' approach, focusing on audience engagement and interactive content, serves as a blueprint for future virtual events.
Technology played a crucial role in the success of the virtual charity run, with event management tools like RunSignUp and Strava streamlining operations and enhancing participant experience. Interactive content, such as embedded videos and tutorials, along with online auctions, were strategically used to boost engagement and fundraising efforts.
