Simplify Your Fundraising with PledgeStar

Forget going door-to-door for donations or making awkward phone calls. With PledgeStar, skip all the in-person soliciting!

Our platform simplifies fundraising, engaging your community without the hassle.

What is a Pledge Drive?

In a pledge drive, students ask for donations from family and friends to help fund programs and equipment that enrich their education. Unlike Jog-A-Thons, Walk-A-Thons, or Read-A-Thons, Pledge Drives require no specific event to raise money.

Pledge drives deliver the easiest way for schools to raise big money, and they don't require students to sell and distribute products. Plus, schools often introduce incentive tiers to boost contributions, fostering a competitive spirit among participants.

Steps to Hosting a Successful Pledge Drive

Plan Your Pledge Drive

First, choose the pledge drive that best fits your organization—whether it's an event-based option like a Jog-A-Thon or a more flexible one like a Read-A-Thon.

Decide if you will use flat pledges (fixed amounts) or variable pledges (based on performance, such as per lap in a Jog-A-Thon), or offer both.

Pick a catchy event name and set key dates, including a pep rally and the fundraising deadline.

Organize the Logistics

Choose PledgeStar as your fundraising platform to streamline the process. Make sure to set up your event details, including the duration of the drive and any specific requirements for in-person events.

Recruit volunteers to help organize and manage the event. Encourage participants to reach out to their networks for pledges.

Promote the Event

Effective promotion is key! Use flyers, social media, and community outreach to boost awareness. Create a unique hashtag to engage supporters and inspire sharing.

Make it simple for offline donors with easy-to-use pledge cards. Motivate contributions with tiered rewards—think merchandise, gift cards, or event recognition—to encourage higher pledges from donors and participants.

Execute the Drive

Ensure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event or throughout the campaign. With donations coming in before and during the event, the dashboard allows you to track progress, update participants on milestones, and maintain a lively atmosphere to boost engagement.

Collect the Funds

Unlike other platforms, which transfer your proceeds when the fundraiser ends, PledgeStar ensures donations go straight into your account the moment they’re made!

This immediate access allows you to manage your funds throughout the entire campaign. By the time your event concludes, you’ve already got the funds in the account. All that’s left is deciding how to make the most of the resources you’ve raised.

Follow Up and Express Gratitude

After the drive concludes, take time to thank everyone involved—donors, participants, and volunteers. Strengthen relationships by sending personalized thank-you notes, and remind donors of their pledges. Use this opportunity to share updates on how their contributions are making an impact and offer ways they can continue supporting your organization in the future.