Tips for team leaders - 2025
Thank you for taking a stand for people with disabilities! We're eager to help you reach your Giving Tuesday goals. We've created this page to help. Follow the steps, in order, and you can't lose.
1. Lead by example: Make your gift first
Your gift will set the tone for future gifts. Consider giving as much as you hope your largest gift will be.
2. Share your story
The #1 reason people give to a cause is simple: They were asked. The #2 reason is that they were asked by someone they know and trust. That’s you. How has Unity House helped you, someone you love, or your community? How have you seen Unity House change lives? Put that on your giving page so people see it when they visit. To do that, go to your fundraising dashboard, click "edit my page," and add text. Every box can be edited by clicking the gear symbol.
3. Make the easiest asks first, in person if possible
Think of a couple people you think will probably give, if only because they care about you. Give them a call or visit them in person. Tell them why you're involved and then make a personal request. Remember, you're not asking for yourself. You're an ambassador for a worthy cause. Ask them to join you in standing up for people with disabilities by making a gift. Most of them will say yes.
4. Send personalized emails
Your friends appreciate you. Giving Tuesday is a great way to show it. Tell them why this campaign is important to you and then ask them to make a gift of any size. They'll want to be part of something that's important to you.
To get started, go to your fundraising dashboard.
- Under “My Fundraising Tools,” click “Share My Page” and then “Send a fundraising email.”
- Under “Choose Template,” select “From Participant - Ask Others to Donate.” (You’re the “participant.”)
- Personalize the message by adding the recipient’s name in the salutation. You can also alter the body text before sending.
5. Share socially
It's time to rally your social media network. After clicking “Share My Page,” just click the “via Facebook” and/or “via X” tab. There, you can easily post the link to your page. Add a brief message on why this cause is important to you and then make the ask: Please give and share! If you use other social platforms, or if you connect best via a text message, just paste the link to your giving page along with your ask.
If you haven't yet registered as a campaigner, click the green button below. On the next page, click "Join or Start a Team" if you think you'd like to invite others to campaign with you. Otherwise, click "As an Individual."
To see how the entire campaign is doing, click here:
6. Get creative
This is your campaign, so make it yours and make it fun. Consider offering incentives (cookies?) for those who give. You could promise to do something special if you reach your goal - run a 5K, stand on your head for 10 minutes, shave your head, sit in an ice bath, whatever.
7. Thank your supporters
Don’t skip this. When each gift comes in, reach out and thank the donor with a call or text. For an email thank-you, go to “My Donations,” click the envelope, choose “Custom thank you to personal donors.” Just customize it and send.
8. Provide updates
As we approach Giving Tuesday, keep the hype up. Share milestones, such as "I've hit 50% of my goal!" Post a photo of a friend to thank her for her contribution. Make it urgent, such as "Just four more days to donate to my page" or "All gifts will be doubled if they arrive before we reach our goal."
9. On Giving Tuesday (Dec. 2), go all out
It’s the last day. Send one more email or text. Post on your socials two or three times. Ask friends who have already given to share your posts.
10. Ask for help
We’re here to help you reach your goal. Email development@unityhouse.org or call Chris at 315-253-6227, ext. 360.
Thanks for having the courage to let people know where you stand. You believe that every person, regardless of their limitations, deserves to dignity, respect, and a chance to realize their full potential.
As a campaigner, you're inviting friends and family to stand with you. Your example and your story will change lives for the better, starting with yours. Thank you!