National Fundraising Day

Welcome to National Fundraising Day! Get ready to put on your fundraising hats and do some good in the world. This day is all about giving back and making a difference. So let's dive into the world of fundraising and discover how it became a national day of celebration.

When is Fundraising Day?

It's national fundraising day on the 13th April.

The Evolution of National Fundraising Day

It's not every day that fundraising gets its own national celebration, but on National Fundraising Day, we honor the art and science of raising money for a cause or organization. This special day gives us the opportunity to appreciate the tireless efforts of fundraisers and the impact they have on society.

Fundraising has a long and storied history that dates back to ancient times. Even the Egyptians were known to hold fundraisers to finance their monumental projects like the Great Pyramids. So you see, fundraising is as old as the pyramids themselves!

But how did National Fundraising Day come to be? Well, it all started in the age of the internet. As online platforms grew in popularity, so did the awareness and reach of fundraising efforts. People began to realize the power of crowdfunding and social media campaigns in making a difference. With a few clicks, anyone could donate to a cause they cared about, and that's a pretty fantastic thing!

National Fundraising Day was officially recognized on April 13, 2018, when it received the most mentions online. The internet exploded with stories of successful fundraising campaigns and heartwarming tales of generosity. Since then, every year on April 13th, people around the United States come together to celebrate the incredible impact of fundraising.

Fundraising Fun Facts

Did you know that the largest online fundraising campaign raised over $55 million? It was started by a group of friends who wanted to help a friend battling cancer. Talk about the power of friendship and the internet!

So, on National Fundraising Day, let's join forces and make a positive difference in the world. Whether it's volunteering, donating, or organizing your own fundraising event, every effort counts. Together, we can change lives and create a brighter future for all.

History behind the term 'Fundraising'

1695

The Early Beginnings

The term 'fundraising' has its roots in the 17th century. In 1695, the word 'fundraise' first appeared in the English language, derived from the combination of 'fund' (meaning a sum of money) and 'raise' (meaning to collect or gather). This early usage referred to the act of collecting funds or money for a specific purpose, often within a community or organization.

1830

Philanthropy and Social Causes

In the 19th century, the concept of fundraising began to evolve as philanthropy became more prominent. People started organizing fundraising events and campaigns to support various social causes such as helping the poor, funding education, and supporting charities. Fundraising efforts were often driven by individuals who wanted to make a positive impact on society.

1913

Fundraising as a Profession

The early 20th century marked the rise of fundraising as a recognized profession. In 1913, the first professional fundraising association, known as The National Society of Fund Raisers, was established in the United States. This organization aimed to promote ethical fundraising practices and provide education and support to fundraising professionals.

1950s

Fundraising Techniques and Innovation

In the 1950s, fundraising techniques began to diversify and incorporate new methods. Direct mail campaigns gained popularity, allowing organizations to reach a wider audience and solicit donations through mailings. Additionally, telethons, a form of fundraising through television broadcasts, became a popular way to raise funds for charitable causes. These innovations brought a new level of reach and efficiency to fundraising efforts.

1990s

Internet and Digital Fundraising

The advent of the internet in the 1990s revolutionized the fundraising landscape. Online platforms and digital technology provided new opportunities for fundraising and donor engagement. Organizations started leveraging email campaigns, online donation platforms, and social media to reach a global audience and raise funds more efficiently. This era marked a significant shift in the way fundraising was conducted.

Present

Modern Fundraising Landscape

Today, fundraising plays a vital role in supporting numerous charitable initiatives, nonprofit organizations, and social causes worldwide. It has become a widespread practice, with diverse strategies such as crowdfunding, peer-to-peer fundraising, and corporate sponsorships. Modern fundraising combines traditional and digital approaches, focusing on building strong relationships with donors and maximizing impact through innovative campaigns and storytelling.