Are you looking for a way to help your local homeless charity but not really sure where to get started? Have a look below for some inspiration and if you still can’t find what you are looking for, please drop us a message fundraising@chesshomeless.org or give us a call on 01245 281104.

The most successful fundraising activities and events are the ones that the supporter has chosen to do because they have a skill in that area or because they enjoy it. So please make sure you feel it is manageable, fun and achieves your goals too! Here’s some ideas to get you started:

  • Dress down day at work or school
  • Quiz/games evening
  • Cake Bake
  • Car wash day
  • Fashion show
  • Sporting event
  • Raffle
  • CHESS night

Or why not get involved in our SWITCH campaign – and Socialise With Intent To Combat Homelessness by hosting a Platters That Matter event! This could be any social event which involves food – such as:

  • Cards & Cocktails evening
  • Dinner Party
  • ‘Bangers & Cash’ BBQ
  • Celebrity Dinner Party
  • Murder Mystery Meal
  • Afternoon Tea Party
  • Big Breakfast

Find out more about our SWITCH campaign and order a ‘Platters That Matter’ fundraising pack here

Some Practical Things To Consider

Keep it safe and legal : When you organise your own fundraising event in aid of CHESS, you are responsible for making sure it does not pose any risks to others. That is why we would recommend you do a risk assessment.

You may need to consider taking out public liability insurance for events such as sponsored walks or runs, which will protect you against claims made by third parties. In most cases it is unlikely that CHESS’s own insurance policy will cover an event that you have organised. Please check if you are unsure.

For more information of if you are planning a fundraising event involving children visit the Institute of Fundraising.

Raffles : If you organise a raffle and tickets are sold and drawn on the same day there are no legal requirements. However, if you sell prior to the date you will need a local license. For more information take a look at gamblingcommission.gov.uk.

After your event or challenge : We would love to hear how your event or challenge went and we would especially love to see any pictures! Make sure you let us know on Facebook and send photos through to us at fundraising@chesshomeless.org. Don’t forget to let everyone know how it went, how much you raised, and thank those who helped and supported you.

Become Part of A Fundraising Group

Join our growing band of volunteers and support groups doing their bit to raise money and awareness of CHESS. You can help organise and support fundraising events and activities in your local community. Here’s just some ideas of what you can do in the local community:

  • Organise fundraising events such as coffee mornings, dinner parties or walks
  • Represent CHESS at local events or shows
  • Collect funds on behalf of CHESS and look after collecting tins, together with community donations
  • Sell merchandise
  • Meet with the CHESS Fundraising to share ideas and plans – we need you!

Who can join?  You’ll need to have your own transport as well as regular access to email. Time and enthusiasm are key assets for a role like this where you will get opportunities to develop your leadership, communication, PR, fundraising and organisational skills.

How do you join?  We would love to hear from you so please get in touch with our Fundraising Team fundraising@chesshomeless.org