Taking on a large-scale fundraising challenge is never easy, especially for a family with three young children under three. But Cameron and Olivia were undeterred in their mission to raise $42,000 for a new parent group at the Kids Plus Foundation. Cameron pledged to run 42km while pushing two-year-old Iggy in a pram, and in an incredible effort, the family and their community far exceeded their target — raising more than $73,000.
The story
After receiving support from the Kids Plus new parent group for their two boys, Cameron and Olivia wanted to give back and help fund the program's expansion. They created a CrowdRaiser page on GiveNow to channel that motivation into donations.
The key factor in their success was their inclusive approach. They invited everyone to contribute in any way they could — businesses, friends, family, and the wider community. Cameron never suggested a specific dollar amount. He only ever asked for "whatever you can afford" and welcomed "any ideas," repeating the message often and with genuine warmth.
How they raised the funds
- Dozens of businesses contributed pledges of varying sizes. The family offered to make them "sponsors" as a sign of gratitude, even though it was not requested.
- Some businesses donated profits from sales — for example, $1 from each punnet of strawberries sold in a day.
- Hundreds of individuals donated directly through the CrowdRaiser page.
- The family printed and sold t-shirts to supporters.
- They accumulated 15 donated items and auctioned them independently.
It was an incredible four months of effort, but the legacy extends beyond the money raised — the conversations about Kids Plus and the community connections created were just as valuable.
Why GiveNow worked for them
The family chose GiveNow because Kids Plus was already registered on the platform, the sign-up process for creating a CrowdRaiser was simple, and the fees were low. They personalised their CrowdRaiser page with family photos and a personal story, which helped supporters connect with the cause. All donors received their tax-deductible receipts automatically, and funds were remitted to Kids Plus seamlessly.
Tips from this case study
- Be inclusive — invite everyone to contribute, not just your inner circle.
- Do not prescribe a dollar amount. Let supporters give what they can afford.
- Combine online donations (through your CrowdRaiser page) with offline fundraising activities like merchandise, auctions, and business partnerships.
- Make your CrowdRaiser page personal — real photos and a genuine story resonate more than polished marketing.
- Express gratitude often and publicly. Acknowledge every contribution, no matter how small.
Congratulations to Iggy, Vance, Matilda, Cameron, and Olivia — you definitely pushed for a purpose!
To create your own CrowdRaiser, see How do I create a CrowdRaiser to fundraise for an organisation?