Instead of mailing cash or check, donators will be able to pay with a payment card online Up ‘til Dawn announced at the launch of their new online fundraising program.
Shelby Wright, a senior health studies major, was appointed as the assistant director for Up ‘til Dawn in May. Wright is motivated and hopeful for the new program, and the effectiveness it will bring to the organization.
“It has the potential to raise so much more money than the letters. On average, online fundraising raises about six times more money than traditional fundraising,” said Wright. But for those who aren’t comfortable dealing with money over the Internet, the traditional letter fundraising option is still available.”
On average, ULM’s chapter raises an estimate amount of $25,000 a year. Last year, the chapter was only $75 short of their goal of $30,000. This year’s goal is to raise $40,000. The members are confident that social media will help advance their achievement.
To help fundraise, students are encouraged to make a personal profile on the Up ‘til Dawn’s website. Members can personalize their profile to attract perspective donators. Members can also send requests to donators through email, Facebook or Twitter.
Up ‘til Dawn members have mapped out how they plan to achieve their goal this year. Members will be broken up into groups and are to seek out as many donators as possible. The groups are expected to raise a minimum of $100.
Emily Lovelady, a senior elementary education major, is the recruitment chair of the executive board for Up ‘til Dawn.
“I’m super excited about all the good this community will do for St. Jude by getting involved and raising money for this great cause,” Lovelady said.
Lovelady is also excited about the Big Blowout Event that will be held in November for Up ‘til Dawn’s team members. The event is to show the devoted members appreciation for their hard work and raising their goal.
Those teams’ members who reach their goal will be allowed into the event. There will be food, games, competitions and members will be eligible for door prizes.
For every $100 the members raise, the higher the prize. Those who raised $100 will receive T-shirts and those who raised $500 will receive name brand headphones. The top winner will win a trip to the American Music Awards. During the last week of September, Up til’ Dawn will host a Childhood Awareness Week.
