We’re in the final stretch, and this is when your efforts matter most. Whether you’ve raised $5 or $500, we want to help you finish strong—with more donations, more support, and more meals for our neighbors.

Use this guide to take your fundraiser to the next level—and remember:

  • Every dollar you raise is matched by the Gene Haas Foundation—turning $1 into 6 meals
  • Federal food programs are being cut—your support fills the gap for local families
  • You can earn badges as you fundraise and get recognized on the leaderboard!

Step 1:

Personalize your Fundraising Page

People don’t give to pages—they give to people. When your fundraiser includes your face, your story, and your why, it’s 4x more likely to receive donations.

Here’s what you can do right now:

✅ Add a photo of yourself (bonus: include family, pets, or something that reflects your personality)
✅ Share your why – Did you grow up receiving free school lunches? Do you believe everyone deserves a full plate? Whatever it is, it matters.
✅ Post your goal + updates – Supporters love watching you get closer to the finish line!

🧡 Pro Tip: Use the language of impact—“Every $1 = 6 meals thanks to the Gene Haas Foundation match!”

Step 2:

Share Strategically

Posting your page once isn’t enough—but you don’t need to flood your feed either. Strategic sharing is what gets results.

✅ Text or message 5 friends directly—this is the single most effective way to raise funds

✅ Post on social once a day—each time with a different message or photo

🎥 Bonus: Record a short video—people love seeing your face and hearing your passion

Here are some social post examples to get you started:

Step 3:

Understand the Impact

The work you’re doing isn’t just about hitting a goal—it’s about showing up for real people, in a very real moment of need.

Here’s why your support means more this year:

📉 Federal food funding was recently cut, reducing the resources available to food banks and pantries across the country—just as demand is rising.

🍎 In Ventura County, 1 in 4 people are food insecure, including kids, working parents, and seniors. That means thousands of families are struggling to put food on the table—every single day.

🚛 Food Share works with over 200 local partners to distribute nutritious food through pantries, schools, and community sites, reaching people who otherwise might go without.

💬 The people we serve include your neighbors, coworkers, classmates, and friends. Many have never needed help before.

When you fundraise, you’re helping someone put dinner on the table. And thanks to the Gene Haas Foundation’s match, every single dollar stretches twice as far.

Ways that you can help