Humanize Your Brand Through Fundraising Stores

Humanity is back in trend, everyone! Whatever you do in the promotional products industry, taking a human-centric approach is vital. A staggering 85% of consumers care about whether a company reflects their values by supporting causes – that’s 17 out of 20 of your customers.?

So, if your brand isn’t already doing something, you’re leaving a lot on the table.

The "Why" Matters

This is essential: Why did you pick your particular cause? Was it a personal experience or something your team feels strongly about? This “why” can become the backbone of your fundraising strategy, lending an air of authenticity that just can’t be faked. So, spell it out, loud and clear.

Take our “Step Up for Morocco” fundraising campaign. On 8 September 2023, a devastating earthquake with a 6.8 magnitude struck Morocco’s Marrakesh–Safi region, causing mass deaths in mountain villages that have collapsed in on themselves.?

For our Moroccon teammate Meryem, the news of this disaster was uncomfortably close to home.

When I heard about the earthquake, I immediately called my sister; both of us were scared. A friend near the epicenter sent me a photo, saying he was now homeless like many in Marrakech and Agadir. The next day, the devastating toll became clear. A week later, friends are still haunted and can't sleep" - Meryem ouedghiri .

Branded Items: More Than Just Swag

The power of branded items goes far beyond their physical form; they serve as catalysts for engagement and connection. When someone dons a T-shirt with your organization’s logo or carries a tote bag branded with your message, they’re not just using a product; they’re endorsing your cause and opening the door for conversations with others.

Think about it.?

Whenever someone asks, “Hey, that’s a cool bag, where’d you get it?” or “I like your shirt; what’s it for?” the wearer becomes an ambassador for your brand or cause. This spontaneous and organic word-of-mouth is invaluable and often more effective than direct marketing efforts. People are more likely to trust a recommendation from a friend or family member, after all.

What’s more, branded items have longevity. While a social media post might get lost in the endless scroll, and a print ad might end up in the recycling bin, a quality branded item can last for years, continuously garnering attention and sparking conversations. This extended lifespan means your initial investment in these items can yield returns far into the future.

And let’s not overlook the social proof aspect. When people see others supporting a cause, they are often more likely to join in. A group of people wearing the same branded T-shirt at an event, for instance, creates a sense of community and shared purpose that can be incredibly compelling.?

Read the full article here.