Revolutionize Your Fundraising: Jill Ritchie & Erica Schofield’s New Book on Crowdfunding for Nonprofits

Revolutionize Your Fundraising: Jill Ritchie & Erica Schofield’s New Book on Crowdfunding for Nonprofits

The fundraising landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, presenting nonprofit organizations with both new opportunities and growing challenges. In this shifting environment, the ability to tap into diverse funding avenues is no longer a luxury but a necessity. One such avenue, crowdfunding, has emerged as a game-changer for nonprofits, offering a powerful way to engage supporters, amplify impact, and build financial resilience.

Recognizing this shift, two industry experts have joined forces to share their expertise in a groundbreaking new book, Crowdfunding for Nonprofits: A Guide to Activating Support Networks. Authored by Jill Ritchie, a seasoned fundraising consultant, and Erica Schofield, a crowdfunding specialist and CEO of Thundafund, this comprehensive guide provides nonprofits with the tools and insights needed to harness the power of the crowd effectively.

 

Crowdfunding: A Game-Changer for Non-Profits

Crowdfunding is far more than a passing trend, it is redefining the way nonprofits raise funds. With platforms like BackaBuddy and Thundafund offering direct access to potential supporters, organizations now have unprecedented opportunities to rally their networks and secure critical funding.

In Crowdfunding for Nonprofits, Jill and Erica delve into the mechanics of crowdfunding, offering a step-by-step roadmap for integrating it into existing fundraising strategies. Whether an organization is just beginning its crowdfunding journey or looking to refine its approach, this guide provides practical, evidence-based insights into launching successful campaigns. From the fundamentals of crafting compelling campaigns to leveraging behavioral science techniques, the book equips nonprofits with the knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive funding environment.

Backed by real-world case studies, up-to-date statistics from leading crowdfunding platforms, and easy-to-use checklists, the book serves as a hands-on resource. Its A4 format ensures easy reference, making it a valuable tool for organizations navigating the ever-changing fundraising landscape.

 

Building Resilience in a Challenging Landscape

As traditional funding sources become more competitive and unpredictable, nonprofits must find innovative ways to remain resilient. Crowdfunding offers more than just financial support, it fosters deeper community engagement and long-term sustainability.

Through the power of collective giving, organizations can mobilize grassroots support, strengthen donor relationships, and create a network of advocates who champion their mission well beyond a single campaign. Jill and Erica emphasize that successful crowdfunding is about more than raising funds; it’s about building an ecosystem of support that ensures long-term impact.

 

Meet the Experts Behind the Book

Jill Ritchie brings a wealth of experience to the field of fundraising. Having raised over R2 billion in her career, she is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most accomplished fundraising consultants. Her expertise spans multiple sectors, including education, faith-based initiatives, and heritage preservation. As the author of 30 fundraising books, including Fundraising from UK Donors, Jill’s influence extends across borders, particularly in securing support from UK donors for Southern African nonprofits.

 

Pictured above: Crowdfunding expert, Jill Ritchie

 

Beyond her consulting work, Jill serves on the boards of various organizations, leading initiatives such as the UK Fund for Charities and the SA-UK Trust Network. Her passion for empowering nonprofits is reflected in her unwavering commitment to developing innovative and sustainable fundraising strategies.

Erica Schofield is an authority on crowdfunding, with a proven track record of helping organizations across South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Gambia, the US, and the UK harness its potential. As the CEO and co-founder of Thundafund, Africa’s largest rewards-based crowdfunding platform, she has played a pivotal role in transforming how nonprofits and entrepreneurs secure funding.

 

Pictured above: CEO and co-founder of Thundafund, Erica Schofield

 

Erica’s expertise stems from both personal experience and professional success. Her journey into crowdfunding began with launching her own business through a successful campaign, giving her firsthand insight into the intricacies of the process. With a background in theatre and cloud technology, she brings a unique blend of creativity and analytical expertise to the field, enabling nonprofits to craft compelling campaigns that captivate audiences and drive results. Through her consultancy, Circalyst, she continues to support social and environmental impact initiatives, demonstrating the power of crowdfunding as a catalyst for change.

 

The Book Launch and Special Offers

To celebrate the launch of Crowdfunding for Nonprofits, an exclusive pre-sale campaign is now live on Thundafund. This limited-time opportunity allows early supporters to purchase the book at a discounted rate while also accessing special rewards, including personalised, handwritten inscriptions from the authors.

In addition, backers can secure discounted tickets to the highly anticipated Annual Papillon Press Conference in May 2025, a premier event for nonprofit professionals looking to stay ahead in the evolving fundraising space.

 

Why This Book Matters

As financial uncertainty looms over the nonprofit sector, the need for adaptive and forward-thinking fundraising strategies has never been greater. Crowdfunding for Nonprofits is more than just a book, it is a strategic guide to future-proofing organizations in a rapidly changing world.

With its expert-driven insights, practical tools, and compelling success stories, this book empowers nonprofits to leverage crowdfunding as a sustainable funding mechanism. By integrating these strategies, organizations can unlock new opportunities, expand their reach, and build a dedicated community of supporters.

Now is the time for nonprofits to embrace crowdfunding as a core component of their fundraising efforts. With Crowdfunding for Nonprofits, Jill and Erica provide the ultimate playbook for making the crowd work for organizations in need.

Get your copy today and take the first step toward crowdfunding success. The crowd is waiting to support you.

 

https://www.papillonpress.biz/product/crowdfunding-for-non-profits

Stay Prepared: 2025’s Essential Emergency Hotlines in South Africa

Stay Prepared: 2025’s Essential Emergency Hotlines in South Africa

Emergencies can happen when we least expect them, and knowing who to call can be lifesaving. Whether it’s a medical crisis, safety concern, or emotional distress, having the right numbers at hand can make all the difference. 

Here’s a comprehensive list of South African emergency hotlines, apps, community groups, and organisations, updated with the latest information.

National Emergency Numbers

  • National Emergency Line (Ambulance, Fire, Police): 112 (from any mobile)
  • Police Emergency Services: 10111
  • Ambulance and Fire Brigade: 10177

Medical Emergency Services

  • ER24 Emergency Medical Services: 084 124
  • Netcare 911: 082 911
  • Life Healthcare Emergency Line: 0860 532 532

Crime and Safety Hotlines

  • Crime Stop (Report Crime Anonymously): 08600 10111
  • Childline South Africa (Child Protection and Abuse): 0800 055 555 (childlinesa.org.za)
  • GBV Command Centre (Gender-Based Violence Support): 0800 428 428 or SMS ‘HELP’ to 31531

Mental Health and Emotional Support

  • Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
  • Lifeline South Africa (Emotional Support): 0861 322 322 (lifelinesa.co.za)
  • South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) Helpline: 0800 456 789 (sadag.org)

Family and Child Welfare

  • Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 424 453
  • Stop Human Trafficking Helpline: 0800 222 777

Substance Abuse Support

  • Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): 0861 435 722 (aasa.org.za)
  • Narcotics Anonymous (NA): 083 900 6962 (na.org.za)
  • South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA): 011 892 3829 (sancanational.org)

Disaster and Relief Services

Animal Emergencies

  • SPCA (Animal Emergencies): 011 907 3590
  • NSRI (Beach Rescue): 082 911
  • SANParks Emergency (National Parks Rescue): 013 735 0197
  • Snake Rescue Hotline: 072 809 5806

Poison Control and Substance Abuse Support

  • Poison Information Centre: 0861 555 777

Traffic and Roadside Assistance

  • AA Roadside Assistance: 0861 000 234
  • RTMC (Road Traffic Management Corporation): 0861 400 800

Gender and Community Support Hotlines

  • Tears Foundation (Gender-Based Violence Support): 010 590 5920
  • LGBTQ+ Support Hotline: 021 422 0255

Homeless Shelters and Support

  • The Haven Night Shelter (Western Cape): 021 425 4700
  • MES (Gauteng and Western Cape Homeless Support): 011 725 6531
  • Durban North Shelter: 031 312 3147

Additional Community and Humanitarian Support

  • Local Community Watch Groups: Contact your local neighbourhood watch
  • Helplines for the Elderly (Age-in-Action): 0800 333 231
  • Missing Persons Hotline (Missing Children SA): 072 647 7464
  • Human Trafficking Hotline (A21 South Africa): 0800 222 777

Emergency Apps and Community Groups

  • Namola (Mobile Safety App): namola.com – Real-time emergency assistance
  • mySOS (Emergency App): mysos.co.za – GPS-linked support for medical, security, and roadside emergencies
  • Community Policing Forums (CPFs): Check your local CPF group on Facebook for area-specific safety updates

When You Need Crowdfunding Support

In addition to emergency services, sometimes a crisis requires financial assistance for medical bills, disaster relief, or emotional support resources. BackaBuddy offers a trusted crowdfunding platform where you can create a campaign to raise funds quickly and safely from your community. Whether you’re seeking help or want to contribute to someone in need, crowdfunding can make a meaningful difference.

Start a campaign

Essential Tips:

  • Save these numbers on your phone under ‘Emergency Contacts.’
  • Share this list with family and friends to ensure everyone is prepared.
  • If you’re unsure who to call, dial 112 from any mobile phone for immediate assistance.

For more support resources and ways to make a difference, visit the BackaBuddy Impact Village for free, helpful articles. 

How To Close Your BackaBuddy Campaign

How To Close Your BackaBuddy Campaign

This is the how-to guide for closing and hiding your BackaBuddy campaign. Understand the process and provide feedback about your experience.

Steps to Close Your Campaign:

  • Log into your profile and go to “My Campaigns.”
  • Select “Manage Campaign” for the campaign you wish to close.
  • Choose a reason for closing and click “Close Campaign.”

Watch Our Step-by-Step Guide on YouTube

 

Contact Us:


For any questions, reach out to your campaign manager for personalised assistance, alternatively contact us, here

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We’d Love Your Feedback:


Your experience matters to us. Please take a moment to complete our survey for feedback—your insights help us improve and better support our community!

How To Verify Your Campaign & Get Funds

How To Verify Your Campaign & Get Funds

Verifying your BackaBuddy campaign builds trust with your donors and ensures smooth payouts. This guide explains the importance of verification and the simple steps to complete it.

  • Steps to Verify Your Campaign:
    • Log into your profile and go to “My Campaigns.”
    • Select your campaign and navigate to “Manage Campaign.”
    • Click on “Verification” and submit the required documents.

Verify your campaign early to avoid delays in receiving donations.

Watch our Step-by-Step Guide on YouTube

Helpful Links:

Contact Us:

For any questions, reach out to your campaign manager for personalised assistance, alternatively, contact us HERE

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How to source champions to support your charity at events

How to source champions to support your charity at events

Image credit: twooceansmarathon.org.za

Crowdfunding is growing rapidly in South Africa, giving non-profit organizations an opportunity to raise more money by tapping into the power of the crowd.

Although over R550 million has been raised on BackaBuddy for various causes, our most successful charities will tell you that crowdfunding is not easy.

To make things a little easier for our charities, our expert team has put together this article on how to diversify your income stream and explore different ways to raise additional funds by using some of the most famous local events.

Once you have registered your charity to raise funds on BackaBuddy, the next step is to find champions and put together a fundraising team.

Where can you find champions?

TIP 1: The best place to find champions to raise funds for your organisation is to reach out to past fundraisers who have supported your organisation.

TIP 2: If you have volunteers at your organisation, ask them if they would be interested in putting together a campaign to highlight a need you might have or help to promote your new champions that sign-up.

TIP 3: Reach out to friends, family, colleagues and social groups to see if the keen champions among you would like to raise funds for your organisation.

 

TIP 4: Create a post on social media to see if any of your followers are taking part in the event. If anyone on your social network is entering the challenge message them privately to see if they will champion your cause! You can also share this post on various groups and forums to reach potential donors.

TIP 5: Following the official social media hashtags for the event could also introduce you to potential champions. Click here to explore event-related hashtags via Ugenie.

TIP 6: Send out a call to action to your email list or database to see if any of your donors will be participating in the event and would like to raise funds for you.

Here is a template you could use: 

Dear (name)

I hope you are well and staying safe.

We are reaching out to you, as you have been a valued supporter of our organization and the work we do.

This Month, we are putting together a fundraising team of champions for the _______________, which will take place from _______________. We are hoping to raise funds at the event to create awareness for our organisation and raise much-needed funds for _______________.

If you are passionate about our organisation and the work we do to _________, please consider entering the _______________ to raise funds on our behalf.

How to enter:

Register for the _______________ here (website).
Create your fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy by letting the team know who you are, how much you would like to raise, and why you are passionate about your organisation here. 

If you have any questions please contact Lakiwe your dedicated BackaBuddy Head of Charities via email: [email protected] to arrange a meeting.

The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon

 

How can you support your champions?

You need to support your champions as much as possible to empower them to raise funds for you.

Show your champions who you are

If you have an organisational video and some emotive and inspiring images that show the valuable work you do, share them with your champions. This will motivate and inspire your champions on their crowdfunding journey and give them beautiful content to share across social media 

Give your champions the latest statistics relating to your organisation and tell them about your success stories, so they can tell their networks about you and encourage donations.

Tell your champions what you need.

Crowdfunding with a tangible need, always speaks better to the public. Give your champions an idea of how funds raised will be used to benefit your organisation. This will help them determine their fundraising target and encourage potential donors to donate funds in those increments.

(For example)

R100 will allow us to purchase 1 pair of shoes that will benefit disadvantaged children living in Edenvale, Johannesburg”

“Raising R10 000 will allow us to cover the data costs for 100 students struggling with online learning in their matric year”

“If we raise R100 000 with our crowdfunding campaign, we will be able to refurbish two classrooms

If your runner has a personal connection with your charity and would like to fundraise for a particular need that resonates with them, this will make an emotive crowdfunding appeal!

Highlight your donors and help them spread the word

During your champions crowdfunding journey they will also need your encouragement and support to achieve their fundraising goal. 

Create a post on social media to introduce your champion to your social media following, post updates about their campaign and congratulate them when they reach certain milestones.  Encourage your champions to also share their connection with your organisation on their social media platforms when sharing their crowdfunding campaign link.

Examples of social media posts you could create:

Stefani from Cape Town is halfway towards reaching her fundraising target of R100 000 on BackaBuddy! With the support she has received thus far, we can cover the registration costs for 10 learners at UCT!

Communicate with your champions

Create a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with your champions, and check in on their campaign progress, and learn what’s working or where they might need help. Host regular Zoom meetings with your champions to motivate them, say thank you and offer them some encouragement. If you would like a BackaBuddy team member present in your workshops, let us know and we will be happy to share our expertise!

Encourage more donations

  • If your organisation is Section 18A certified, let your champions know to share this information with their potential donors as this is a great incentive to encourage donations in larger amounts. If you are Section 18A certified, let us know and we can add it to your campaign page for all potential donors to see! 

We hope you found value in our advice, if your organisation has any questions, please reach out to us. The BackaBuddy team is here to help.

We wish your organisation and all your champions at the event all the best on their journey!