How to promote your fundraiser without being pushy

Fundraising can feel awkward, especially when you ask friends, family, neighbors, and strangers to support your team. But the truth is, most people want to help when they understand why it matters to you.

Here's how to share your fundraiser in a way that feels confident, respectful, and never pushy.

1. Reframe how you think about fundraising.

You're not begging or selling. You're offering people a chance to support something meaningful. Whether it's your softball team or an environmental cause, you're inviting people into a story they can feel good about.

Try saying: "We're raising money for our travel tournament and to plant trees in Indiana. If it's something you feel like supporting, we'd be so grateful."

2. Lead with the why.

Before sharing the link, share your why. That quick personal story helps people feel connected and less like they're just being asked for money.

Example: "We're trying to raise $2,000 so our team can make it to regionals. Every little bit helps cover travel and gear!"

3. Make it about impact.

Especially with a program like Jamboree's FunditForward, people aren't just helping you — they're also making an impact.

Example: "Your support also helps plant trees in Indiana — pretty cool to see extra impact!"

4. Share once, respectfully.

One thoughtful message or post is usually enough. If they're interested, they'll act. If not, that's okay! Avoid repeat asks unless there's a meaningful update to share.

Example: "No pressure at all — just wanted to share in case you were interested."

5. Use personal channels.

Social media is great, but some of the best results come from direct messages and group texts. These feel more personal and are easier to tailor.

Sample text: "Hey! We're doing a fundraiser through a new app to support our team and plant trees. Just wanted to share in case it's something you'd want to support."

6. Let the app do the heavy lifting.

You don't have to explain everything. Just share your link and let Jamboree handle the rest!

7. Say thanks (even if they don't give).

Showing gratitude changes the tone. Thank people for listening, sharing, or just caring about your team.

Example: "Thanks so much for reading! It means a lot just to have your support."

8. Share progress, not just the link.

Instead of reposting your link over and over, consider sharing what you've achieved so far or the impact your group has made.

Social media post idea: "Thanks to your help, we've raised $1,500 to go to regionals and help plant trees in Indiana!"

9. Fundraise as a team.

Make it feel collaborative, not competitive. Celebrate milestones as a group and support each other's posts.

Try: "We're halfway there as a team!" or "Help us all hit our goals together."

Share in a way that feels like you.

There's no one right way to promote your fundraiser. If it feels unnatural, tweak the wording. Be yourself, be kind, and let people choose to support when it feels right for them.

You've got this — and we're here to help every step of the way.