Our Crowdfunding Groups
When you ask someone to donate to your fundraising page, you are giving them an opportunity to do something to help others. Here are some tips for maximizing your fundraising potential:
Set a fundraising goal
Make sure you set yourself a fundraising goal so your supporters know what you are trying to accomplish. This target should be a challenge for you but also achievable with a little help from your friends and family (and co-workers, neighbors).
Customize your giving page
Make your page unique and interesting by loading a photo or video and telling your story.
Don’t be afraid to ask for support
When asking for donations (in person, through email, social media, etc.) be confident and remember that you are not asking for yourself but for funds to support a cause important to you. Write a personal letter or email to all of your contacts asking for support. Record a video with your phone asking for donations and post it on social media or include it in your email to friends and family. Update your email signature by adding your personal fundraising page URL.
Matching gifts
Many companies may match their employee’s charitable giving, so ask your donors to check with their HR department if a matching gift program exists.
Ask others to help you raise money
Ask your friends, family and coworkers to reach out to their personal networks to help collect more money for your fundraising effort.
Donations in lieu of gifts
Ask that a donation be made to your giving page in lieu of gifts for a wedding, birthday or holiday.
Thank your donors
Most importantly, thank your donors. Happy donors are donors who will support you again in the future. Be sure to personally thank every donor you have to your giving page through handwritten notes or email.
Need help?
Email us at buckeyefunder@osu.edu.
Why should I create a personal fundraising page?
With fundraiser.osu.edu, it’s easy to make an impact through Ohio State. Choose what matters most to you, create your page, and invite your family and friends to get involved. You’ll be changing lives in no time.
• To celebrate a milestone, birthday, wedding or special event
• To honor a loved one
• To pay tribute to a friend, co-worker or medical staff
• To share your story
• To connect with others who are interested in supporting our cause or to raise funds
What do I need to create a page?
Only a valid email and physical address – there are no registration fees or fundraising minimums!
What should I put on my giving page?
Your online giving page is your opportunity to share your story with others and make a difference by raising funds. Your page can be customized with your own text, photo or video.
How do I edit my page?
After you complete the registration process, you will receive a login to add content. Once your page has been created, log in to your account to make additional changes.
I just finished my page. Now what do I do?
After you finish creating your page, it's time to share it! Login to your account to access the email tools or use our suggested messaging to send emails from your own email account. Also share your page on social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.
How do I find out who donated to my page?
Login to your account and click on the Donation tab on the left side of the page. This page will provide you with a list of donors and their donation amounts.
How do my friends and family make a donation to my fundraising page?
On the home page of the website, friends and family can locate a personal fundraising page by entering your page name in the search bar. They will be directed to your giving page where they may make a donation, and view current funds raised.
Who acknowledges my contributors?
Every online donation will receive an automated email acknowledgment that can be used for tax purposes. It is also a good idea to send your own personal thank you to anyone who responds to your request for support.
How do I deactivate my page?
If you wish to deactivate your page, please email buckeyefunder@osu.edu and the team will assist with deactivating your personal fundraising page. Be sure to include your name and email address you created the page under.
Can I mail in a donation?
Yes, you can send a check made payable to The Ohio State University. Please send to: The Ohio State University Foundation PO Box 710811 Columbus, OH 43271-0811. Please put "Personal Fundraising: Honoree or Event name" in the memo field.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes! You will receive a receipt for your donation.
Will my gift count towards Alumni Association Sustaining Membership and President’s Club?
Yes. Your gift through buckeyefunder.osu.edu will be applied to your giving at Ohio State and our recognition programs. Learn more about Alumni Association Sustaining Membership and President’s Club.
When will my credit card be charged?
Your credit card will be charged immediately upon finalizing your gift on the site.
Are international donations accepted?
Yes, The Ohio State University Foundation accepts international gifts via credit card or check.
What is the institution’s Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number?
The Ohio State University Foundation’s Tax ID Number is 31-1145986.
Who should I contact with questions about my contribution?
For questions, please call (614) 247-1759 or email buckeyefunder@osu.edu.
Don’t see your question?
Email us at buckeyefunder@osu.edu.
