When time is short: how to run a fast, focused fundraiser
Follow these tips to raise funds for immediate needs with Jamboree.
Your team qualified for Nationals — congrats! But it's in three weeks, and you need funds for travel costs. What do you do?
Teams and groups often have unexpected needs. When you need to raise money quickly, Jamboree can help you get going fast while keeping your messaging clear and meaningful.
Here's how to run a last-minute fundraiser while keeping your focus (and your cool):
1. Be direct about what happened.
Start by providing a short, clear explanation of the situation. If people understand why this happened so suddenly, they are more likely to help.
Example: "Our team just found out we qualified for Nationals! We’re thrilled but need to cover travel costs in the next 3 weeks."
Keep it honest and positive. Urgency does not mean panic.
2. Launch quickly in Jamboree.
Launch your fundraiser in Jamboree in a few minutes:
- Create a new fundraiser in the app
- Title it clearly (e.g., "Softball Nationals Travel Fund")
- Set your goal and invite your team
- Share your link immediately
It doesn't need to be perfect — it's better to start and adjust rather than wait too long.
3. Focus your message on the need and impact.
Keep your message clear and simple:
- What happened
- Why it matters
- What their support will do (help the team and plant trees)
Example social media post: "We’re heading to Nationals — but we need help getting there. Every donation helps with travel and supports tree planting across Indiana. Thank you for cheering us on!"
4. Give people a reason to act now.
Even a soft "deadline" helps people prioritize your ask.
Example: "We hope to raise funds by [insert date] to book buses and hotels. Every bit helps us get there!"
5. Thank early and often.
It's easy to skip the thank-yous in fast-moving fundraisers — but this is when it matters most.
Example text message: "Thanks so much for helping our team get to Nationals — and for helping plant trees while you’re at it! So grateful."
6. Keep your team focused.
Everyone is pressed for time, so give families ready-to-use templates and talking points to spread the word quickly and confidently.
Clear and direct leads to success.
You don’t need weeks of planning to run a successful fundraiser — only a clear goal, a direct message, and the right tools.
We’re here to help you move fast, raise what you need, and make an impact along the way.