What if some families can't participate?
Try these tactics to support every member of your group.
Not every family has the same resources or time to fundraise. Some may have limited internet access. Some might be managing demanding schedules. Others might feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start.
As an organizer, you can make a huge difference by offering encouragement and small ways to lower the barriers to participation. Here's how:
1. Make it as easy as possible.
If someone can't easily access the app or fundraiser page, offer to help set it up or even do it on their behalf if needed (with their permission).
Ideas to offer:
- Help them download the app and walk them through setup at practice or a meeting.
- Offer to send them a direct text or email with simple instructions and their link.
- If needed, let them fundraise verbally — where supporters give through your team's main link, and you help track it informally.
2. Provide pre-written messages.
Time-strapped families might just need a little help knowing what to say. Share simple, ready-to-send posts or texts they can copy.
Example text: "Hi friends! Our team is fundraising for travel costs and also helping plant trees! If you'd like to support, here's our link: [Insert link]. Thank you!"
3. Offer shared team promotions.
Instead of each family only promoting individually, share a collective team page or fundraising link widely. Everyone can benefit from the group's momentum!
Pro Tip: Highlight team wins so every family feels included in the success, even if they can't promote individually.
4. Meet families where they are.
If technology is a barrier:
- Accept in-person support where allowed, and record them digitally yourself.
- Let them promote offline by sharing flyers, team signs, or word of mouth at games and practices.
If time is a barrier:
- Encourage even small participation. Have them share the link once or text it to a few trusted friends.
5. Focus on inclusion, not pressure.
Some families might feel guilty that they can't contribute as much as others. Make it clear that every effort is valued, no matter the size. Fundraising is a team effort, and participation looks different for everyone.
Example message to your group: "We're all in this together — no pressure on how much you raise or how often you post. Every share, every conversation, and every bit of support makes a difference!"
Raise money and build community together
A strong fundraiser isn't just about raising money; it's about building community.
When you help remove barriers for families, you show that every person matters — and that's what makes your group stronger on and off the field.