Resources

Fundraiser Planning Checklist — We have created this PDF resource that you can download to help you plan your event.

Count Me In Form — Use this form to tell the Federation of BC Writers what you have planned and to request social media graphics.

Event Ideas

Food & Drink Fundraisers

Entertainment & Social Events

Literary & Creative Fundraisers

Challenge & Endurance Fundraisers

Sales, Auctions, & Markets

Community & Seasonal Events

 Food & Drink Fundraisers

Casual, social, and easy to host in homes, offices, or cafés.

Event highlights & ideas

• Perfect for connecting over food — low-pressure, fun, and conversation-friendly.

• Great for small to mid-size groups and simple to set up in kitchens, community rooms, or outdoor spaces.

• Possible formats: bake sale, potluck, afternoon tea, BBQ, ice cream social, or “Dine & Donate.”

Planning considerations

• Check food safety guidelines (especially if selling baked goods).

• Consider dietary restrictions and include clear labels (e.g., vegan, gluten-free).

• Have serving utensils, napkins, and a cleanup plan ready.

• Confirm whether a temporary food service permit is needed if it’s public (via BC’s health authority or municipality).

• Choose eco-friendly serving supplies to reduce waste.

Target audience

• Families, friends, local book clubs, workplaces, or neighbourhood groups.

Extra success tips

• Offer donation jars or QR codes near food tables.

• Include a short “story card” on each table explaining the cause.

• Partner with a local café or bakery for donations or matching sales.

• Use creative themes (“Tea & Tales,” “BBQ for Books,” “Sundaes for Stories”).

• Encourage guests to bring reusable mugs or plates.

 Entertainment & Social Events

Fun, community-building gatherings that work well in pubs, community halls, or online.

Event highlights & ideas

• Includes karaoke nights, trivia, board game tournaments, open mics, or themed movie nights.

• Focused on shared fun rather than formal programming.

• Often works best in casual venues with built-in audiences.

Planning considerations

• If held in a licensed venue, confirm the venue’s age limits and liquor policies.

• For film screenings, check for screening rights (public domain or licensed).

• Test microphones, speakers, and lighting in advance.

• Keep event length manageable (90–120 minutes is ideal).

Target audience

• Young adults, social clubs, community groups, or writers’ circles.

Extra success tips

• Use a small entry fee or “by donation” model.

• Offer small prizes (bookstore gift cards, locally donated items).

• For trivia, include a fun “literary round” if it fits your theme.

• Recruit an engaging host or MC to keep energy up.

• Encourage sharing photos with a dedicated hashtag.

 Literary & Creative Fundraisers

Perfect for arts and writing communities — creative, meaningful, and community-building.

Event highlights & ideas

• Includes author readings, poetry slams, book exchanges, writing contests, and workshops.

• Great for showcasing local talent and building community around creativity.

• Works well in libraries, cafés, galleries, or bookstores.

Planning considerations

• Confirm venue acoustics and seating — readings need quiet, focused spaces.

• Obtain permission or agreements if authors are selling books.

• For contests or slams, define judging criteria and entry process early.

• Ensure accessibility for attendees (ramp access, quiet areas).

Target audience

• Writers, readers, students, teachers, and local arts supporters.

Extra success tips

• Invite a local author to headline or judge.

• Partner with a bookstore for co-promotion.

• Offer a “pay what you can” entry to be inclusive.

• Compile participant work (e.g., short stories or poems) into a small printed zine for sale.

• Record the event or livestream it for wider reach.

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 Challenge & Endurance Fundraisers

Engage participants through action, personal goals, and friendly competition.

Event highlights & ideas

• Ideal for walkathons, runs, write-a-thons, cycling challenges, or team step competitions.

• Encourages pledges or sponsorship per kilometre, step, or word.

• Can be done individually or in groups.

Planning considerations

• Prioritize safety: route permissions, hydration, and first aid access.

• Confirm whether liability waivers or event insurance are required (many BC municipalities do).

• For virtual challenges, set clear timeframes and tracking methods (apps or forms).

• Consider BC’s unpredictable weather — plan for rain dates or indoor alternatives.

Target audience

• Fitness groups, schools, workplaces, writing communities, or families.

Extra success tips

• Create digital badges or certificates for participants.

• Use a simple tracking spreadsheet or app for pledges.

• Celebrate milestones publicly (e.g., “500 km reached!”).

• Encourage teams or friendly rivalries (e.g., “Writers vs Editors”).

• End with a casual social gathering or picnic.

 Sales, Auctions & Markets

Hands-on, practical fundraisers with tangible results.

Event highlights & ideas

• Includes garage sales, plant sales, craft markets, or online auctions.

• Appeals to people who prefer direct, visible contributions.

Planning considerations

• Secure space with enough tables and signage.

• For public events, check with your municipality about street or park use permits.

• Track inventory and prices clearly.

• Have float cash or digital payment options ready.

Target audience

• Local families, crafters, gardeners, collectors, and community browsers.

Extra success tips

• Combine with refreshments to boost attendance.

• Ask local artists to donate small works for a silent auction.

• Promote sustainability (“Give your plants or books a second home!”).

• Offer bundled deals (e.g., three plants for $10).

• Thank donors publicly — they’re your future supporters too.

 Community & Seasonal Events

Great for visibility, celebration, and building long-term community traditions.

Event highlights & ideas

• Larger-scale or annual events like fairs, concerts, galas, or themed seasonal parties.

• Can grow year after year as signature community gatherings.

Planning considerations

• Start planning early — venues and performers may book months ahead.

• Check if a special event permit, insurance, or security plan is needed.

• For outdoor events, consider tents, signage, and waste management.

• Include clear signage and accessible facilities.

Target audience

• Broad public audiences, families, local artists, and community supporters.

Extra success tips

• Partner with other local nonprofits or businesses.

• Create a simple photo booth or themed backdrop.

• Have volunteers wear branded shirts or badges for visibility.

• Incorporate short speeches or acknowledgments to connect attendees with your cause.

• Gather feedback from attendees to improve next year’s event.