1.  Get Organised Early
It is helpful to decide the who, what, when and where as soon as possible. Who are you planning to invite? What type of event would you like to host? When are you going to hold your event? And, where will the event be located? Once you have made these decisions, it’s time to register your event with the Pyjama Foundation – just email events@thepyjamafoundation.com. Finally, keep a checklist of what needs to be done.  Every time you can check something off your list you will be one step closer to a fantastic event.

2. Prepare a Budget
Knowing how much it may cost you to put together your event will inform many of your decisions along the way. By having a clearly planned budget, you are much more likely to hit your fundraising goal for the event.

3. Set a Goal
It is always a good idea to keep in mind what your overall fundraising target will be.  Small or large, any donation that is given to the Pyjama Foundation makes an impact on the future of a child in care. Don’t be afraid to start off small – you can always build on your fundraising as you become more experienced.

4. Promote Your Event
Utilise social networking as well as your community and work networks to advertise your event.  Also, tap into your local media to find other outlets to promote your event. And, don’t forget to spread the word to your family and friends.

5. Set up an Online Fundraising Page
Online fundraising is a great way to ask for support from friends and family who will not be able to make it to your event but who would still love to support you. Setting up a page is incredibly quick and easy.  For information on how to set up your own fundraising page, email events@thepyjamafoundation.com

6. Try to get as Much Donated as Possible
Your family and friends in the community are likely to help your event by making in-kind donations.  Whether it is food, the event space, thank you bags or any other item for your event, it will help your bottom line and allow you to donate more to The Pyjama Foundation.

7. Enlist Friends and Family to Help Organise Your Event
Your friends and family are likely to want to help you be successful and they each carry a specific skill set.  If you have a friend who has taken up photography or know someone who dabbles in design, ask them if they would be willing to donate their services for your event.

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
You will be surprised by how willing people are to give, if you just ask them.  Don’t be shy – people want to help where they can!

9. Educate Yourself
Take some time to learn all  you can about the Pyjama Foundation and the work we do, about what it means to be a child in care and the outcomes for them and the difference that having a Pyjama Angel can make to a child’s life! People will be impressed with your amount of knowledge when they attend your event.

10. Say Thank You to Supporters
Make a list of everyone who was involved – whether they donated funds or supported in another way.  Any donation over $2 is tax-deductible; ensure any donor to your event has received a receipt if they would like one.  Simply make a list of donations made and the name and contact details of the person who made the donation and send the list through to us at the Pyjama Foundation – we will make sure everyone receives a receipt.  Lastly, don’t forget to let them all know how much you appreciated their support and efforts – say ‘Thank You’!