Skip to content
DONATE
Be the Mission.
Host Your Own Fundraiser.
With your passion and our support, we’ll turn your fundraiser into a success. We’re here with the tools and guidance you need every step of the way.
DOWNLOAD FUNDRAISING GUIDE

Get Started Today!

yellow light bulb
Hands yellow2
People

Step 1

Step 2

step 3

GATHER IDEAS
ENGAGE SUPPORT
EMPOWER COMMUNITY

Step 1: Define Your Fundraising Goal

SET A CLEAR GOAL

CHOOSE AN ACTIVITY

Determine how much money you aim to raise. Consider the size of your network and set a realistic, yet ambitious target. SOWF will provide DIY and Virtual Fundraisers with our logo, verbiage about our foundation, and a free online fundraising page you can share on social media and use to secure donations.

Decide on the type of event you want to
host and reach out to us to let us know.

Need help choosing an activity?
Don’t know where to start?
CLICK FOR POPULAR IDEAS

Ready For the Next Step?

YES! TAKE ME TO STEP 2

need Help?

For more information on creating your own fundraiser, please contact  BeTheMission@specialops.org, or via telephone at (813) 805-9400.

Step 2: Create Your Fundraising Page
Select a Platform: Choose a fundraising platform that supports your event type or request to have SOWF set up for you. Websites like GoFundMe, JustGiving, or Facebook Fundraisers are user-friendly and widely used.
Grace Lewis is the daughter of Petty Officer First Class Jason Lewis KIA in Iraq in 2007 while serving with SEAL Team 10

Set up your page: including compelling content

TITLE

STORY

IMAGES/VIDEO

GOAL

Create an engaging title for your fundraiser

Explain why you're raising funds for SOWF and how they'll make an impact

Add personal photos or videos to make your page more appealing

Clearly state your fundraising goal

Promote your fundraiser

SOCIAL MEDIA
Share your fundraiser on all your social media platforms. Use engaging graphics and stories to attract attention. Tag friends and family to broaden your reach.
EMAIL CAMPAIGN
Send personalized emails to your contacts explaining your cause and inviting them to contribute.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
For local events, use flyers, posters, and local media to spread the word. Partner with local businesses for promotions and support.
UPDATES
Keep your audience engaged with regular updates about your progress and the impact of their contributions.

Engage Your Supporters

INTERACTIVE CONTENT

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Host live Q&A sessions, share stories of those who have benefited from SOWF, or give live updates during your event.

Thank your donors publicly (if they’re comfortable with it) on social media and your fundraising page. Consider sending personal thank you notes or small tokens of appreciation.

Ready For the Next Step?

YES! TAKE ME TO STEP 3

need Help?

For more information on creating your own fundraiser, please contact  BeTheMission@specialops.org, or via telephone at (813) 805-9400.

Step 3: Host the Event

PREPARE

VIRTUAL EVENTS

LOCAL EVENTS

GO LIVE

Ensure all technical aspects are tested and ready for virtual events, and that all logistics are in place for local events.

Check internet connectivity, streaming platforms, and virtual tools.

Secure a venue, obtain necessary permits, and ensure you have the needed supplies and volunteers.

Host your event,
keeping it engaging and interactive. Share real-time updates on progress toward your goal.

wrap up and Thank your donors

FINAL UPDATE
Post a final update summarizing the event’s success and the total amount raised.
EXPRESS GRATITUDE
Thank your donors and participants. Let them know the impact their contributions will have on the lives of the children in the SOWF program and their families.
FOLLOW-UP
Send a follow-up email or message with highlights from the event and a heartfelt thank you.

By following these steps, you’ll not only raise essential funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation but also spread awareness about the vital support the foundation provides. Your effort can make a significant difference in the lives of Special Operations Personnel and their families.

For more information on creating your own fundraiser, please contact
BeTheMission@specialops.org, or via telephone at (813) 805-9400.

Stay Connected

Sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter, SOWFocus, to stay updated on news, events, and student success stories!

© 2024 Special Operations Warrior Foundation
The Special Operations Warrior Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, national non-profit charitable foundation.
Tax ID #52-1183585

Facebook-f Linkedin Instagram Youtube
Charity Navigator, Guidestar Platinum Transparency, Compliance Shield

About

Get Involved

Quick Links