Why run a Lottery?
A lottery can be an ideal form of income generation, as players can give to the charity and at the same time have the chance of winning a worthwhile prize for a modest outlay. This chance of winning a prize means that the lottery is not simply another ask.
A lottery appeals to both existing supporters of the charity, and to individuals in the community who may not currently support the charity financially, but are supportive of it. Existing charity supporters will play the lottery in addition to their current support because of the chance of winning, while that incentive will also encourage those who don't currently donate to play.
A lottery is different from many forms of income generation, in that it can provide:-
- A significant income, which is;
- Sustainable and reliable, year on year
- This allows longer term developments to be made
What is a Lottery?
Supporters are recruited to join the lottery on a membership basis. They submit their personal details and choose a method of payment and the frequency which they would like to pay for their membership. They are notified of their unique lottery number by letter or email. The draw takes place regularly, usually weekly or monthly.
All Winners are notified by post and sent a prize cheque. The winning numbers can be publicised in a variety of ways through the media or on the web.
Setting up a Lottery
There are many factors which need to be considered when setting up a lottery.
Development of a marketing plan
Predicted level of membership
Desired profit level
Administration duties
Marketing duties
Diary of a Fundraising Officer
Please click on the link below to read what is invloved in setting up a fundraising lottery from the point of view of a Charity Fundraising Officer
Click here to view Diary of a Fundraising Officer