Finding inspiration to run a charity event

Organising a charity event can be a great way to inspire creativity and activity in your local community while helping to raise much-needed funds for important causes. It can take a great deal of time and effort to set up and run a charity event, but the sense of achievement and knowledge that your actions have made a difference, however small, can make it very worthwhile.




You may already have a preferred charity in mind, whether it's a cause that has personally affected you or your loved ones or simply an organisation that you feel is doing important work. Once you have settled on a charity, you can get to work finding like-minded volunteers to help you arrange a time and place and to start planning the finer details of the event - including what it actually involves.




There are plenty of tried-and-tested means of raising charity funds, which are suitable for a wide range of participants in all areas of the community. Sporting events can include races and five-a-side football games, or you can unleash a quirkier side with fancy dress fun runs to encourage people to have a great time. If you're stuck for ideas, you can always rely on the so-called 'thon family': marathons, walkathons and slimathons.

When you've settled on a theme, it's time to start planning the event. At this stage it's advisable to make cheap phone calls and enlist the help of everyone you know who has the time and dedication to help you, so you can rest assured that all aspects of the project will run smoothly. Finding a venue could be easier than it first appears, with many businesses being keen to lend their support to charity events, and you could even get in touch with agencies to enlist the help of local public figures or celebrities.




In order for your event to be a barnstorming success, you'll need to make sure you carry out enough publicity too. Posting announcements at your workplace and in newsagent windows can be as effective as word of mouth, and your local schools might even like to get involved with events of their own, such as non-uniform days, depending on the wishes of the headmaster.




Don't be afraid to aim high with sponsorship targets, and start raising funds well in advance of the event. Most people will be happy to give you the money straight away so you won't have to spend more time collecting it later.