Whether you're setting up your first fundraiser or looking for new ideas, raising money for a cause you care about comes down to a few simple steps: pick a goal, choose a format that fits you, and make it easy for people to give.

Below are practical fundraising ideas, a step-by-step approach, and — if Right To Play is the cause you're fundraising for — the specific ways we make that easy.

How do I start a fundraiser for a charity?

Most successful fundraisers follow the same basic steps, regardless of size:

  • Pick your cause and set a clear goal. A specific number (not just "raise some money") gives people something concrete to help you hit.
  • Choose a fundraising format. A personal challenge, a group event, a workplace collection, or an online campaign page all work — pick whatever fits your time and audience (see ideas below).
  • Set up a way to collect donations. Many charities, including Right To Play, provide a fundraising page or platform so you don't have to build one yourself.
  • Tell people why it matters. A short, personal explanation of why you're fundraising for this cause usually raises more than a generic ask.
  • Follow up and say thank you. A thank-you message — and making sure donors get their tax receipt — goes a long way if you plan to fundraise again.

Fundraising ideas that actually work

Some of the most effective fundraiser ideas are also the simplest:

  • Personal challenge fundraisers — run, walk, cycle, or take on a personal goal (a distance, a habit, a milestone) and ask people to sponsor you.
  • Workplace or office fundraisers — bake sales, casual-day donations, or team fundraising challenges are low-effort ways to get a group involved.
  • Tribute or honour fundraisers — raising money in honour or memory of someone is one of the most personally meaningful ways to fundraise.
  • Group or community events — a trivia night, auction, or small local event can bring together people who already know and trust you.
  • Milestone giving — asking for donations instead of gifts for a birthday, wedding, or other celebration
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Ways to fundraise for Right To Play

  • Host your own fundraiser — whether it's a personal challenge, an office event, or fundraising in honour of someone, our team can set you up with an easy online fundraising page and support you along the way.
  • Run, walk, or cycle for Right To Play — Right To Play is an official charity of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, with in-person and virtual options across multiple distances.
  • Become a Playmaker — join a community of young professionals who fundraise together through two signature annual events (a golf tournament and a Gran Fondo), on top of a monthly donation.
  • Partner as a business — corporate partners can fundraise through employee engagement, sponsored events, cause-related marketing, or direct financial contributions.
  • Explore other ways to give — beyond organizing your own fundraiser, there are other ways to support Right To Play directly, including gifts of securities, legacy giving, and workplace giving programs.

Tips for a successful fundraiser

Set a realistic, specific goal — it's easier to raise money toward "$500 to support play-based learning for 10 children" than a vague target.

Make it personal. Explain why this cause matters to you, not just what it does.

Use the platforms you already have — social media, email, or your workplace newsletter reach people faster than starting from zero.

Say thank you, and make tax receipts easy to find. If you're fundraising for a registered charity like Right To Play, your supporters' donations are tax-deductible for the official charitable receipt amount based on the maximum allowable under CRA regulations — see our guide to the charitable donation tax credit for how that works.

Ready to get started?

If you'd like support setting up your fundraiser, contact our Events & Corporate Partnerships team, or explore the ways to fundraise for Right To Play above to find the format that fits you best.