Fundraising Resources

Overview

Every dollar raised helps make a difference for the kids and families supported by St. Ambrose Dance Marathon and the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Use the tools and ideas below to guide your fundraising and share your story!

Getting Started

1. Set Your Goal
Decide on your personal fundraising goal and write down why this cause matters to you. Personal stories connect with donors.

2. Create Your Fundraising Page
Log in to your DonorDrive page and customize it with your photo, story, and goal.

3. Share Your “Why”
Tell friends, family, and social networks what inspired you to join SAUDM. Use photos and updates to keep people engaged.

Fundraising Ideas

Peer-to-Peer Outreach

  • Send personal messages to family, friends, and mentors.

  • Post weekly updates on your social media pages.

  • Ask donors to share your fundraising link with their networks.

Events and Activities

  • Bake Sale

  • Car Wash

  • Craft Night (custom bracelets, bows, etc).

  • Trivia / Bingo Night

Campus and Community Drives

  • Set up donation jars in local businesses or campus offices.

  • Coordinate with student organizations for collaborative events.

  • Promote matching gifts through donors’ employers.

Templates and Downloads

Email Template
*Use this to reach out to family and friends.

Subject: Help me support St. Ambrose Dance Marathon!

Hi [Name],

I’m participating in St. Ambrose Dance Marathon to raise money for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Every dollar we raise supports children and families facing medical challenges.

My goal is to raise [amount] by [date], and I’d love your support. You can donate through my fundraising page here: [DonorDrive Link].

Thank you for helping me make miracles happen — FTK (For The Kids).

[Your Name]

Social Media Post Template

*Use this on Instagram stories, or a Facebook post. Be sure to tag @saudancemarathon!

I’m dancing for the kids! Join me in supporting St. Ambrose Dance Marathon as we raise funds for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Every donation makes a difference — big or small. You can help me reach my goal by donating here: [DonorDrive Link]

#FTK #SAUDM #ForTheKids

Fundraising Tips

  • Always say thank you — follow up with an email or handwritten note.

  • Share updates on your progress and the total raised.

  • Tag @saudancemarathon in posts to increase reach, we will repost you!

  • Celebrate milestones — when you hit half or all of your goal, tell your donors.

  • Stay connected — check the SAUDM Instagram and email updates for new ideas and challenges, especially during Push Week and Big Event!

Contact

Need help or have a question about fundraising?

Email the Fundraising Director, Email Drifka, at saudm.fundraising@gmail.com or reach out to your Morale Captain.

As always, Kids Can’t Wait!