Summer is here and tons of people are gearing up for vacations on nice islands and beach front resorts,
but as usual our fundraisers amaze us yet again in showing their dedication.  I’m talking about summer mission trips!  Mission trips, Alternative Spring break, Volun-tour-ism (catchy, I know) are some amazing ways to combine a trip to somewhere you want to go with helping out a cause that you are passionate about, whether it be building a church in Kenya, providing medical care in New Orleans, or teaching disadvantaged children in India. 

My roommate went to California with Habitat for Humanity last year and had a blast (it was her first time seeing the Pacific) and got to help build houses (her first time caulking windows).  Which is totally the coolest thing ever and she was so excited about going, helping and being a part of something bigger instead of the usual margaritas and cushy pool chairs. 

Now that I have you thoroughly convinced that your next big vacation should be in hurricane stricken New Orleans. . . the question that comes up is, "how will I pay for this excellent trip of goodwill?"

Well that is where Firstgiving comes in.  Already we have some great trips arranged by our non-profit friends like Child Family Health International, Community Collaboration International, Habitat for Humanity, etc.  And the cool thing is that not only can you raise money to help these organizations in general (which helps make projects like mission trips possible), you can also raise money specifically to finance your next trip with them. 

How does this work?  Talk to your nonprofit about earmarking the funds that you raise.  This isn’t always possible, so be sure to talk to them before getting started.  But a lot of organizations can take whatever funds come in from your fundraising page and set them aside for your particular trip.   This way you can provide
the funds for your meals, shelter, and project supplies and that
definitely helps out these charities and makes your trip a success.  You are also enlisting your
community to help out both you and the charity!

Another similar question that has been asked is, "How do I raise money for a specific chapter of my organization?" Sometimes that just involves calling HQ and letting them know that you are raising money for that specific cause and also informing them that they will be receiving a check in your name in honor of a specific chapter.   Again, the best way to do it is to call first and make sure the organization knows what you are planning on doing so they are prepared when they get their check.

So try it out. . . you are sure to get some really encouraging comments from friends and family and also have a great experience helping out another community!