If you run a non-profit or charity organisation, one of the most exciting and satisfying things you can do to raise funds is to make a fundraising photo calendar. Calendars are great for raising awareness, and the good news is thanks to the Internet, making a fundraising calendar is easier than ever.
The first consideration is accumulating the photos you want to use. The biggest stumbling block people run into when making a fundraising calendar is photos with insufficient resolution, so it is important that the people supplying the calendar photographs know what is required. If you’re holding a photo contest, be sure to tell people to use at least a 5 mega pixel camera set at the highest setting.
Next, decide what type of calendar you want to make. Although 8.5” x 11” wall calendars are the most popular for fundraising, many people choose to make an easel style or CD case desk calendar.
Making your fundraising calendar is the fun part. While most photo calendar websites are geared toward personal (family) calendars, some such as custombuiltcalendars.com cater to businesses, charities and non-profit organizations. They generally offer more professional calendar templates and tools, and better pricing. Since most offices do not allow software downloads for security reasons, be sure to select a calendar software solution that is totally online (i.e. no software to download).
Using the online software and templates, design your fundraising calendar by uploading and inserting your photographs, selecting the holidays and observances you want (plus inputting additional ones that are relevant to your calendar), and inserting your logo and contact information.
For fundraising calendars that are printed digitally (generally orders up to 750 calendars), a hard copy production quality sample is available for your review before you have to commit to your entire order. Check it very carefully looking particularly for things such as spelling mistakes, and when you are 100% happy, totally thrilled and excited, get it printed and share it with your fans and supporters.
Remember to give yourself lots of time to make your calendar in case you run into any problems or in case others who will also approve the calendar need an extra day or two.