A guide to fundraising in 2020
Weird, challenging, monumental. It sure has been a rocky year for humanity. One where it’s been difficult to see things to be thankful for.
But there are positive signs all around. People sharing their toilet paper. Looking after older neighbours. Zoom choirs. And a month of glorious moustaches is on the horizon.
With you by our side, we’re ready to make Movember 2020 the best yet. Here’s a quick refresher on what Movember is all about – and a few things to keep in mind as you get ready for the hairy season.
WHY MOVEMBER MATTERS
Movember’s mission is more relevant now than ever. Social isolation has affected the mental health of all of us, including our fathers, partners, brothers, sons and friends. Especially those already finding it hard to stay connected. And its impact will stick around long after the pandemic is over.
For men living with a cancer diagnosis, and their friends and family, COVID-19 has brought a range of new challenges. From interrupted treatments, to the increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 in hospitals and the isolation and loneliness felt by those going thought is all on their own.
The world has changed. But a lot of things stay the same: men’s health is still in crisis, and we still need your help to stop men dying too young. Every pound makes a difference. Every donation you raise gives us much-needed funds and drives awareness.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU MO
Fundraising is going to be different this year. COVID-19 means different places will have different rules - physical distancing, lockdowns, masks. You might not be able to host an office lunch if everyone’s still working from home. You can’t assume your friends will give if they’re worried about money.
If you’re uncomfortable about asking for donations, think about this. Billionaires actually got richer this year. What do you mean you don’t know any billionaires…? What we’re getting at is that while it’s been a difficult year for some financially, others might be in a good position to donate to you this Movember. Those who’ve be able to work from home mightn’t have been spending as much as they would have. They’re still giving. They might even want to donate more generously.
SLOW AND STEADY WINS THE RACE
This has long been the Movember way. From 30 Mo Bros in 2003 to a community six million strong. We know that every little bit counts. Raising £100 this year might require you to ask 5 people rather than 2. And if you’ve got a few fundraising ideas up your sleeve, 2020 is the year to give them a go! You never know until you ask.
But when someone says that they genuinely can’t afford to, don’t push it. Don’t walk away either. Ask if they need a hand. Stay connected, know how to spot the signs of someone who’s struggling and know how to reach out.
AWARENESS IS AWESOME, TOO
Even starting a conversation about the men’s health crisis is valuable. Not everyone knows that, globally, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day. That nearly 10 million men around the world are living with or beyond prostate cancer. Or that testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in young men.
These are the figures that we’re working to change. Thanks to the donations our Mo Bros and Mo Sisters have brought in, we’ve already funded over 1,250 men’s health projects in mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. And we’re not finished yet. We’re on a mission to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25% by 2030. Find out more so that you can share our story.
MO HARD, PLAY SAFE
In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing more fundraising ideas and suggestions. But it’s up to you to interpret them in a way that’s safe, fun and in line with official advice in your local area. Put a virtual or digital spin on ideas you might have done previously. Think online trivia night or a Shave Down shindig on Zoom. If you’re havin’ fun doin’ good, then you’re nailing it.
Let’s end this less-than-average year by rockin’ out like Freddie Mercury at Live Aid ‘85. Whatever you do, it'll be awesome. So get creative, keep safety in mind and go hard at Movember 2020. Sign up now or login to your Mo Space to get started.