This week, we have a very stinky interview with Darian Rickman. He’s fundraising with Shower Strike, a campaign to raise funds for clean water. As part of the campaign, participants don’t shower. Darian shares how’s he raised funds so far and some useful tips for other fundraisers.
Tell us a little bit about who you are.
My name is Darin Rickman, from Austin, Texas. I own R-Squared Capital, LLC, an independent wealth management firm. I also have the privilege of being a member of Austin Cosmopolitan Rotary Club (ACRC). We have currently teamed up with Well Aware, a fantastic non-profit that brings clean water to many needy children and their families.
Why are you fundraising for Shower Strike?
Well Aware has an annual fundraiser called Shower Strike! I’ve had the great pleasure of being Captain of the Dream Team, one of ACRC’s three teams that will raise at least $7500 for a water catchment system in Kenya. This one facility will provide access to life sustaining water for hundreds of children. The larger goal for the Shower Strike is $100,000. These funds will go directly towards funding of multiple projects throughout Africa.
Sara Evans is Director of Well Aware and a fellow Rotarian. She has presented to ACRC several times and her passion for their mission has translated to overwhelming support for her projects. It is refreshing to know that our contributions are going directly to the needy and not lining the pockets of the organization.
The Shower Strike itself is an opportunity to feel connected to the project by pledging not to shower until a goal is met. So often we take for granted our access to clean water to drink, cook and bathe.
What methods did you use to get people to come to your page and donate?
In business, fundraising, and life it is important to connect directly with the ones you are seeking support from. While social media is an important tool in assisting with that, it is not always the most personal or the most effective. Posting on Facebook and Twitter a couple of times and sitting back watching the money roll in will not produce the kinds of results you’re looking for. Try to tailor your message to different audiences. The people you think will be you’re biggest donors may not be. The people you don’t think will contribute, probably will! Never talk yourself out of talking about your cause. Just because someone may not be able to provide monetary support doesn’t mean they can’t be an asset in spreading the word to someone that can.
What has been the most difficult part of fundraising?
In today’s tough economic climate it is difficult to raise money. Stay with it! Show your commitment to the cause and convey your personal message. Continue to educate and provide updates on the project and fundraising status. Explain that small donations in large numbers go just as far as large donations in small numbers. Remind donors that work for large organizations to look into matching contributions. Many corporations will match funds, dollar for dollar!
For more information on my specific cause, please visit my website. Thank you for your support!
