‘Tis the season to be jolly and there’s no better way to get that festive feeling than getting together with friends, family and co-workers to help us change young lives this Christmas.
We’d be delighted to have you join our merry band of Children’s Champions and we’ve put together our top 10 festive fundraising ideas to get you started. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll have the support of Santa’s favourite helpers, (also known as NYAS’ fundraising team), to help you along the way!
Festive Fundraising Idea #1: Christmas Craft Workshops
If the last 2 years gave you more space to be creative, why not pass on those skills and run a Christmas craft workshop for your friends or local community. You could teach wreath making, paint glass baubles, or make beautiful handmade cards! Ask your attendees to make a donation to join the workshop which could be in person, online (or both!).
Festive Fundraising Idea #2: Raise money wrapping presents
Are you a gift-wrapping extraordinaire capable of making sure every gift has perfectly smooth edges and a flawlessly festive bow? Why not set up a gift wrapping station at your home or office and ask for donations in exchange for your wrapping skills?
Festive Fundraising Idea #3: Organise a Christmas Quiz
We all still love a quiz, either in person or online! Choose a theme and become a quiz master, asking for donations from those who wish to take part.\
Festive Fundraising Idea #4: Gameathon
What was your favourite game of 2021? Or your least favourite? If you’re a gifted gamer (or total noob), why not take on a Gameathon and collect donations? You could live stream the event so your friends can cheer you on and keep your company! For more information and ideas of how to raise money while gaming check out our gaming fundraising pack.
Festive Fundraising Idea #5: Christmas jumper day
Dress to impress at your work, school or even your Zumba class and collection donations from participants! You could mix it up and make it about the best festive socks or hats instead of jumpers if you like.
Festive Fundraising Idea #6: The perfect gift for someone hard to buy for!
Instead of a card or a gift, many people choose to donate the money they would have spent to a good cause, and you can do this for NYAS too! Make a donation here and then email fundraising@nyas.net with the name of the person you are making a donation for. We’ll then send back your personalised ‘Gift in your name’ certificate for you to share with them.
Festive Fundraising Idea #7: Deck the halls!
We love a bit of spirited competition. Why not get together with your colleagues and have a decorate your desk competition? If you’re still working home, you could make it a Christmas tree competition and submit your pictures or see who can design the best Zoom/Teams background for your Christmas meeting. Collection donations from all who want to take part and don’t forget to buy a box of chocolates for the winner!
Festive Fundraising Idea #8: Donate your last hour of pay
If your office is full of Grinches who are unlikely to don Christmas jumpers or decorate their desks you could ask them to donate their last hour of pay for the year instead. This may seem like small change but can make a big difference! Your HR team might be able to offer help with the logistics which makes it an easy way for people to donate.
Festive Fundraising Idea #9: Step it up with the Side by Side with Santa Challenge
If you’re looking for ways to keep well this winter you could join our Side by Side with Santa step challenge and take 10,000 steps every day in December while collecting sponsorship. Fundraising is a great way to stay motivated on those chilly winter days and make sure you’re making time for your wellbeing. Read more here.
Festive Fundraising Idea #10: Raise free donations while doing your Christmas shopping!
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our good friends over at Give as you Live and Amazon Smile. Both of these sites make donations on your behalf to NYAS when you shop in eligible stores or for selected products, at no cost to you! You get the same great products and brands, at the same price but with the bonus of raising funds for NYAS. Find out how to get started.
For more fundraising ideas check out our fundraising pack here. If you need any help don’t hesitate to speak to our fundraising team via fundraising@nyas.net or by calling 0151 649 8700.
Thank you for helping us support children and young people in care – we couldn’t do what we do without supporters like you!
