#PackYourBag: Building a Narrative for Classroom Crowdfunding

Classroom crowdfunding is one of the most powerful fundraising tools out there. Anyone with an internet connection can make a pitch to the whole world. Everyone who reads your story or visits your page could be your next classroom donor.

There are a lot of people and nonprofits asking for support online, so let’s help your classroom stand out!

27 million pieces of content are shared online each day. Why read yours?

We know you work hard to educate your students and make sure they have the best chance at success.  Your best chance to crowdfund for your classroom is to convey that message into a fundraising ask in a way that gets you noticed. Here are some proven tips that will draw donors in.

Embrace Your Inner English Student

Even if you’re not an English teacher, you definitely know one. Treat your classroom page like an essay. Follow the same rules, and always proofread before posting.

The Introduction: Be Specific, but Concise.

The best way to draw readers into your classroom crowdfunding ask is by demonstrating need and the potential impact a donor could have. Don’t risk losing a reader’s interest with general thoughts or background information.

“My kids show up to class hungry everyday. When I have snacks in the classroom, participation immediately skyrockets and everyone learns more.”

The Body: Show, Don’t Tell

You’ve probably heard this advice before, but it has truth behind it! You know what makes your students remarkable. Use a story to prove the point. Indulge in a pointed personal moment that gets delivers the primary message of your classroom crowdfunding ask.

“My first year teaching I provided every student with an anthology of important poetry. This year a student came back from college to tell me that she still had her copy, and that the notes in it helped her immensely in her college poetry class. I want to continue to have this kind of impact on my students, but I can’t fund class sets of books every year out of my pocket.”

The Conclusion: Make it About the Reader

Keep the focus on the donor. This is where you get to use the list you created last time. Tell the donor exactly what you need from them and how you’ll use the donation you get.

“A $30 donation will buy classroom snacks for two months, meaning my students will have two months of enthusiastic learning without the distraction of hunger.”

The way you tell your story will affect how much you are able to raise for your classroom. For more tips, ideas, and examples about classroom crowdfunding, check out our Teacher Fundraising Guide.