Introducing a new way to support Genesis!

At Genesis, helping women who have experienced domestic violence is our core mission. We know that there is hope, and with your help we can end domestic violence. New as of today, you can create and personalize your own fundraising page and invite family and friends to contribute! This is known as Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Fundraising. If you’ve seen anyone raise money on Facebook for their birthday by asking their friends to donate to their favorite nonprofit, then you already know what a P2P fundraiser looks like!

P2P fundraising, or crowdfunding, is when people ask their social networks to donate to a nonprofit. On average in the U.S., each crowdfunding campaign raises $391. At Genesis, we know there are no small donations, and every dollar given adds up to provide life-changing services to our clients. Last year, Genesis supporters raised $23,000 through Facebook fundraisers alone!

Starting a P2P fundraiser is convenient and flexible – we’ve already set up the templates! You can fundraise as an individual or captain a team of friends, family or coworkers.

How to fundraise for Genesis:

Step 1. Visit www.genesisshelter.org/fundraise and choose from four fundraising templates:

  • Celebrate a Milestone – For your next birthday, anniversary or graduation, consider inviting your friends and family to donate to Genesis in honor of your milestone.
  • Honor Someone Special – Remember a loved one’s legacy or honor your favorite person by sharing their life story or social impact.
  • Create Your Own Event (DIY) – Organize a “Jeans Day” at work, plan a trivia night or set up a bake sale and invite your coworkers or church group to donate!
  • Host a Donation Drive – After safety, self-esteem and dignity are some of the most important goals we focus on with our clients. Gather items with your book club or friends and help a woman and her children know they are worthy of new items.

Step 2. Create an account and set up your chosen fundraising template. Tell the story of why you love Genesis!

Step 3. Share your fundraiser! Connect with your networks through social media, word of mouth or emails. Become a team captain by helping others set up their accounts and share with their social networks.

Step 4. Watch the donations roll in and give yourself a round of applause! Post updates about your success and thank your friends for their support!

When you host a Peer-to-Peer fundraiser for Genesis, you become an ambassador for our mission as you raise money and awareness about domestic violence in your community. Your friends and family are more likely to give to Genesis when they know that you believe in our mission. By championing Genesis in your social network, you help to create safe homes and safe communities for everyone!

Written by Alissa Lindsey, fund development manager at Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support