Ways2Raise

What is it?

The New Year's Resolution Sponsor is a fun and seasonal fundraising idea where you get friends, family, and community members to sponsor you to complete a personal challenge or goal linked to their New Year's resolutions. It works well for teen fundraisers because it taps into the motivation and enthusiasm that often comes with the start of a new year, making supporters more willing to pledge money to help you achieve your aims and theirs.

Why does it work?

People love to support others who are committed to positive change, especially at the start of the year when resolutions are fresh in mind. By linking your fundraising to a challenge or goal, you create a sense of accountability and excitement, encouraging sponsors to contribute. This also builds a personal connection, making donors feel involved in your journey and inspired to see you succeed.

What you'll need

A clear, achievable personal challenge or goal related to a New Year's resolution
A sponsorship form or online fundraising page
A way to track progress (diary, blog, social media updates)
Access to friends, family, teachers, and community members for sponsorship
Basic supplies related to your challenge (e.g., running shoes, healthy snacks) if necessary

Step-by-step plan

1

Choose a clear, measurable personal challenge or goal that you can realistically commit to over January and beyond. Examples include running a certain number of miles, reading daily, or eating healthily.

2

Create a sponsorship form or set up an online fundraising page (such as JustGiving or GoFundMe) explaining your challenge, why you’re doing it, and how donations will help your expedition or adventure trip.

3

Reach out to friends, family, neighbours, and teachers to explain your challenge and ask if they would like to sponsor you per day/week completed or with a one-off donation.

4

Track your progress visibly—use social media, a blog, or a poster to update sponsors regularly. This keeps people engaged and encourages them to share your journey with others.

5

Thank all sponsors personally and provide updates on how their donations are helping you prepare for your trip. Consider small rewards or shout-outs to show appreciation.

How to advertise it

Post regular updates and progress photos on Instagram and Facebook with hashtags like #NewYearsResolution or #SponsorMyChallenge
Create a short video explaining your challenge and share it via WhatsApp groups or TikTok
Print simple flyers or posters to put up at school, local shops, or community centres
Ask your school or youth group to mention your challenge in newsletters or assemblies

Realistic earnings

Most teenagers can expect to raise between £50 and £200 depending on how many sponsors they find and the nature of their challenge. Consistent updates and personal engagement can push earnings higher.

Top tips

✅ Choose a challenge that excites you personally—it’s easier to stay motivated and inspire others.

✅ Be honest and clear about how the money will help your trip to build trust with sponsors.

✅ Keep your sponsors updated regularly to maintain their interest and encourage additional donations.

✅ Start asking for sponsorship early in December to give people time to commit before January.

Common mistakes to avoid

⚠️ Choosing a challenge that’s too difficult or unrealistic, leading to early burnout.

⚠️ Not providing regular updates, which can cause sponsors to lose interest.

⚠️ Failing to thank sponsors promptly, missing the chance to build lasting relationships.