What to do if your fundraiser stalls
Take these steps to reignite your fundraiser and reach your goals.
Maybe your fundraiser started strong but is slowing down now, or you're struggling to build momentum. That's totally normal!
If this happens to you, stay calm, regroup, and take a few simple actions to relight the spark:
1. Reshare your story — not just the link.
If your original fundraising posts or outreach mainly focused on your page link, reshare the reasons why you're fundraising. A quick reminder of your story makes it personal and inviting.
Example: "We're raising money so our team can travel to Nationals this year. Every bit helps cover travel and gear, and helps plant trees locally! Thanks so much for your support."
Pro Tip: Personal posts, especially with photos of your child or team, often perform better than generic fundraiser links.
2. Share a progress update.
Even if you're not where you hoped, sharing progress shows momentum and reminds people that their support makes a difference.
Example: "We've already raised $400 and helped plant 15 trees thanks to amazing supporters! We're still working toward our goal — every share helps!"
3. Try a new audience.
If you've mostly shared with close friends and family, try posting in a neighborhood group, alumni group, or community page. Please just be aware of any rules for fundraising posts.
Example: "Hi neighbors! I'm helping fundraise for my child's team and wanted to share in case anyone loves supporting youth sports and local causes!"
New audiences can breathe fresh energy into your fundraiser.
4. Personalize direct messages.
Sometimes a personal note works better than a public post. Consider reaching out individually, especially to people who care about you or the cause.
Example: "Hi [Name]! Just wanted to share our fundraiser link in case you'd like to check it out. No pressure at all — just so grateful for any support!"
Pro Tip: Keep messages short, personal, and low-pressure.
5. Host a mini-challenge or theme day.
Give your team a fun reason to post again, like "Throwback Thursday" photos or a simple "One More Share Challenge" among your team members.
Example: "Today's goal: 5 more shares to help us get closer to planting 50 trees! Who can help us spread the word?"
6. Make it easy for your team.
If you're leading a group fundraiser, send out quick templates your team can copy and post — this removes the barrier of "I don't know what to say."
Example text to send your team: "Need a post idea? We're halfway to our goal! Every supporter also helps us plant trees in Indiana. Thanks for cheering us on! [Insert fundraising page link.]"
7. Celebrate every win.
A $5 transaction, a reshare, a new supporter — everything counts! Celebrating small wins keeps spirits high, even if the pace is slow.
Example post: "Huge thanks to everyone who's shared or supported! Every bit makes a difference for our team and the planet."
Fundraising is progress, not perfection.
If things slow down, it's not a sign to give up — it's a sign to try something new. You've already done something amazing by putting your fundraiser into the world. We're here to help you finish strong!