Between August 1st-25th, we hope to raise $20,000 to purchase a new Toro Workman Utility Vehicle for Blue Water Baltimore’s Herring Run Nursery, just in time for the busy fall planting season. All proceeds from the Nursery support our mission for clean water and strong communities.
If you’ve ever visited our Nursery, you know the Toro Utility Vehicle is a vital piece of equipment for daily operations. While it has been hard at work for over 8 years, it is no longer efficient, and old enough that parts are no longer available for repairs. Additionally, we would like to move from the noise emission and pollution of a gas operated vehicle to the efficiency of a “green vehicle” more in line with our organizational intent.
Last fall, from September to November, the Toro was used to transport almost 10,000 items purchased by customers from the Nursery to the parking area (approximately 1/4 mile away). We can attach agro-wagons, allowing us to move bulk plant material around the Nursery more easily. The Toro saves the staff a significant amount of time and labor, and Manager Rob Jenkins is already averaging 11,000-18,000 steps a day!
How can you help? Join us as we launch our first peer-to-peer fundraiser! Peer-to-peer fundraising is a powerful way to raise funds where individuals solicit donations from their network of friends, family, and colleagues on behalf of a cause or organization. By signing up you will receive access to our digital Fundraising Toolkit, so whether you’re a first-time fundraiser or a seasoned veteran, you’ll have everything you need. You’ll also be entered into our drawing for a $50 HRN gift card!
How does it work?
Participants can register on our website and set a fundraising goal. If you’ve never been a fundraiser, don’t worry–we have a lot of suggestions in the provided Fundraising Toolkit. From August 1st-25th the fundraisers do their thing, and then donate their total amount raised directly to Blue Water Baltimore. All registered fundraisers will be entered to win a $50 Nursery gift card in our drawing August 30th.
If you’re not quite ready to register, you can always share our fundraising link and ask folks to donate directly to us!
How should I collect money?
Any way you’d like. Some folks like to collect cash, others digital payments, or a combination of both. All we ask is that you plan to make one lump donation in whatever form you choose at the end of the campaign. We are not hosting this fundraiser on a specific platform, so use whatever you’re comfortable with–Facebook, GoFundMe, or just call people!
Will BWB help me with an event?
We can’t host your event, but we would love to promote it. If you are hosting a local event for your fundraising, let us know and we’ll spread the word.
What’s in this Fundraiser Toolkit?
We’ve put together everything you need to reach your fundraising goal. Including a Fundraising 101 with suggestions for fundraising events and challenges, examples of fundraising posts, digital content, and information about Blue Water Baltimore’s programs.
What do I do if I need help?
Have a question or a comment? Your feedback matters! Please reach out to Development Officer Michelle “MJ” Jenkins at [email protected]
With the help of our network of supporters, we know this goal can be achieved. Your dedication and support to our organization are crucial to our ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our waterways.
