Charitable events: 10 great must-know strategies for effective promotion and success

When planning a fundraising or charitable events, there are a number of factors to consider, many of which we will cover in our latest article right here. Discover what you need to do to achieve the best outcome for your designated charity.
10 must-know strategies for promoting charitable events effectively

When you’re pouring your heart into organising a fundraiser, you want people to turn up, get involved, and support your cause. Whether you’re planning a dinner, fun run, or auction night, successful charitable events rely on solid promotion. The better your reach, the bigger your impact.

So, how do you get the word out in a meaningful (and budget-friendly) way? Let’s explore 10 smart strategies for promoting charitable events that make a real difference.

1 – Start with a compelling story

People support charity events when they feel connected to the cause. So before you talk logistics, get clear on your story. What problem are you tackling? Who benefits? Why now?

Include personal stories or real-world impact where possible. This becomes the foundation for your emails, social media and event page content—and gives people a reason to care, not just attend. Without doubt, this is one of the fundamentals of charitable events planning.

2 – Make it super easy to share

Every click, like and share helps. Make sure your event page has clear “share” buttons, downloadable flyers, and pre-written captions supporters can copy and paste. If people love your mission, they’ll help promote it—so give them the tools.

For charity events UK-wide, platforms like JustGiving and Enthuse can also help build momentum, especially for fundraising challenges.

3 – Work with local media and community boards

Local newspapers, radio stations, and community noticeboards (both online and offline) are brilliant free promo spots. Submit a press release, offer someone for a short interview, or list your event on their “what’s on” calendar.

These local networks can give your charitable events a lift, especially when trying to reach families or neighbourhood groups.

10 must-know strategies for promoting charitable events effectively
Charitable events: 10 great must-know strategies for effective promotion and success 5

4 – Partner with local businesses and influencers

Ask nearby shops, gyms, cafés or salons if they’ll help promote your event in exchange for a thank-you shoutout or logo on your materials. You’d be surprised how many say yes.

You can also invite local influencers or community figures to get involved. Even a single story or post from the right person can bring new eyes to your charity events.

5 – Choose a venue that’s accessible and buzz-worthy

Location matters—not just for footfall, but also for aesthetics and ease. Choose a venue that’s easy to get to, especially if you’re running fundraising challenges like quiz nights, auctions or bake-offs. We LOVE these types of charitable events here at Event Hire UK.

Need to make a space more functional or festive? Event Hire UK offers short term event equipment hire on everything from tables and glassware to catering kit and bar units—helping you create a professional setup for one-off events without overspending.

6 – Use countdowns and teasers to build hype

Start building excitement weeks in advance. Use countdown graphics, “coming soon” hints, or behind-the-scenes previews to stir interest. This tactic works brilliantly for charity events UK when you’re trying to create urgency or sell tickets fast.

Teasers also keep your audience engaged, giving you more chances to remind them why this event matters.

10 must-know strategies for promoting charitable events effectively
Charitable events: 10 great must-know strategies for effective promotion and success 6

7 – Offer different ways to get involved

Not everyone will be able to attend your event in person, but they may still want to support. Offer virtual options (like live-streaming the raffle draw), donation links, or even a “pay-it-forward” ticket for someone else.

The more flexible your charitable events are, the wider your reach.

8 – Create an easy-to-navigate event page

Whether it’s on your charity’s website or a third-party platform, your event page should answer the key questions quickly: what, where, when, why, and how to get involved. Include visuals, testimonials, and donation options too.

Clear, mobile-friendly pages with embedded hire partners and venue details add a layer of professionalism—helping your event stand out from the crowd.

9 – Post consistently and creatively on social media

Don’t just share your poster once and hope for the best. Use stories, reels, polls and carousels to keep the momentum going. Celebrate volunteers, highlight sponsors, and share snippets of what’s to come.

Social media is still one of the best free ways to promote charity events—especially if you mix updates with behind-the-scenes posts and fun facts about your cause.

10 must-know strategies for promoting charitable events effectively
Charitable events: 10 great must-know strategies for effective promotion and success 7

10 – Thank people publicly and keep the conversation going

After the event, post thank-you messages, photos, videos and impact updates. Tag attendees and supporters where possible—it not only shows gratitude, but keeps your name alive in the algorithm.

This also lays the groundwork for your next charity event. When people feel valued, they’re far more likely to turn up again—or bring a friend next time.

10 must-know strategies for promoting charitable events effectively
Charitable events: 10 great must-know strategies for effective promotion and success 8

How Event Hire UK helps bring charitable events to life

Whether you’re planning a black-tie dinner, community quiz night, or outdoor summer fundraiser, we’ve got your event kit covered. At Event Hire UK, we support charitable events across the country with:

  • Furniture hire – from banqueting tables to chairs and bar counters
  • Catering equipment hire – ideal for DIY kitchens or pop-up food service
  • Glassware and tableware – stylish, practical, and available in bulk
  • Short term, one-off hire options – perfect for fundraisers and seasonal events

We understand the tight timelines and budgets that come with charity events UK, and we’re here to help make your setup smooth, smart, and affordable—without the stress.

To close…

Promoting charitable events is about more than just getting bums on seats—it’s about inspiring action. Whether you’re rallying donations, growing awareness, or bringing a community together, these strategies can help make your next fundraiser one to remember.

Need help setting the stage (literally)? Event Hire UK is your trusted partner for event furniture, catering kit and all the hire items you need to bring your charity event to life. Let’s help you raise more—and stress less.

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