This year, it’s more important than ever that we stand United. Our region is facing incredible challenges because of the COVID-19 crisis, and our community needs us now more than ever.
By coming together, we can provide the help and hope our region needs. Dollars raised during United Way of Greater St. Louis’ fall campaign supports nonprofits that assist people facing poverty, hardship, or adversity in accessing needed resources to survive and thrive.
Each successful workplace campaign works to build a stronger, healthier community.
As many workplaces pivot to remote work, we recognize that this year’s campaign will look a little different. Here are some tips and resources to help you run a successful virtual campaign.
1. Plan. We have dedicated staff members to make sure you have the tools you need for a seamless campaign. To meet your United Way representative, reach out to us at ecchelpdesk@stl.unitedway.org.
After meeting with your United Way representative, gather a team of colleagues to coordinate different aspects of the campaign – events, communications, incentives, etc. Set a kick-off date and a goal. Meet on a regular basis and keep a project log of tasks that need to be completed. If you like to self-learn, you can use our Interactive Training Guide to get started!
2. Kick Off. Host a virtual kick-off on the meeting platform of your choice. Even with a virtual kick-off, you can still keep things exciting by:
- Showing our campaign video.
- Welcoming an agency speaker and raffling off an attendance prize.
- Showing United Way’s impact, including how we help and our five impact areas.
- Directing your team to visit our campaign website so they explore our impact.
Pro-tip: Be sure to do a dry run prior to the kick-off to avoid any technical issues!
3. Pledge. This year, virtual is the key to success. We want to make sure your co-workers have a way to give online. We have a variety of solutions, including Salesforce.org Philanthropy Could and ePledge. Your United Way representative can walk you through your options. Did you know that revenue from individual online gifts grew by 19% over the past year?
4. Connect. Events are a great way to educate your coworkers on United Way, our community’s challenges, and the impact their gift can make, and build enthusiasm for campaign. Even though you can’t gather in the cafeteria for a chili cook-off or outside in the parking lot for a tricycle race, there are many events you can host virtually to engage and uplift your colleagues.
5. Share Impact. United Way supports a safety net of nonprofits that meet our community’s pressing and emerging needs. Share the importance of the safety net and the types of programs and causes we support to help your coworkers connect with our mission.
6. Say Thanks. At the end of your United Way campaign, be sure to say thank you! Tell your employees how much you raised and how every dollar impacts their community. Share a few numbers from our Impact page to see how their gift was used to help people. Then tell your colleagues how they can give back to their community all throughout the year through volunteering and giving.
Need help planning? Reach out to us, and we will connect you with a United Way team member who can guide you through planning your virtual United Way campaign.
Brittin Haury LaMar, Director of Online Giving for United Way of Greater St. Louis
