Last week, I had the opportunity to visit with the Bank of America team during their fundraising brainstorm session.  (And no, I can’t reveal all their secrets…but you should still call me for ideas!)

Their fundraising totals are legendary – as a team, they have raised more than $500,000 for 24 Foundation over the last ten years.  More than 20 teammates came out to their brainstorming dinner and it was inspiring to be in a room full of that many great ideas!  And while I can’t give away all their plans (I’m sworn to secrecy!), I can tell you what makes their team so successful.

1.  Plan, plan, plan.  While matching gifts play a role in their success, the majority of their dollars are earned the hard way – by asking and planning.  They get together to map out their year and support each other’s ideas.  They make sure no one is responsible for too much and that everyone has help with their events.

2.  Involve all of your team.  Bank of America (and other successful teams) make a habit of including everyone in the plan.  Different team members take responsibility for different parts of the fundraising and planning so that no one is responsible for too much.  Not everyone wants to lead an effort, but almost everyone will put in volunteer hours!

3.  Use your network.  The most successful teams take advantage of their networks and communities.  This will look different for every team, but everyone has a circle of friends, coworkers and neighbors they can ask to help donate and come to events!

While your team may not be able to raise $100,000 a year, there is still plenty you can do to help maximize your cancer-fighting dollars.  Call me for help anytime! Anyone have anything to add to the list?