Successfully raising funds for a good cause requires getting as many people to contribute as possible. How you promote a charitable event makes all the difference on whether it is a success or a failure.

Since advertising is such a difference maker, here are ideas on how you can promote your charitable event:

• Plan out your promotion strategies.

Brainstorming is the first step to any successful promotional efforts. Gather together a team and figure out how you can spread information on the event through print, radio, TV and the internet while keeping such efforts cost effective. Create ads, flyers and banners that will catch a person’s eye and sum up what your event is all about in a powerful way.

• Lay out your plans.

Once you’ve devised an appropriate ad campaign, get out there and make it a reality. Place an ad with your local newspaper. Secure TV and radio spots. Try to negotiate for these various media to do this free of charge or at a reduced fee if possible. If you have banners, find places to display them. You can try public buildings like schools or libraries. Another option is to contact local churches and see if the pastors will consent to displaying them. These are good options because people already involved in the community or in a church are typically more willing to support a charitable cause.

• Secure sponsors.

Do not be afraid to ask local businesses for their support. Many business see supporting a charity event as a good way to advertise and create a good impression with the community by supporting a good cause. It also helps their bottom line because they can write off their involvement when they file taxes. Offer to sell advertising space in a program, on banners or on posters that will be displayed at the event and visible to everyone in attendance.