What it is
A fundraiser for someone else is a campaign where one person, often called the organizer, asks friends, family and community to give toward a need that belongs to another person, called the beneficiary. Common reasons include medical bills, funeral costs, a house fire, a legal need or a family going through a hard time.
Donation crowdfunding means supporters give without expecting ownership or financial return. It is different from equity crowdfunding, where people may invest in a business. This page covers donation-style fundraising only, not investments or securities.
Because the money is meant for someone else, clarity matters. A good campaign says who the money is for, what it will be used for, and who will manage it. Honesty is the foundation: campaigns should be truthful and specific, and funds should be used as described. Misusing donations can be fraud.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, organizers begin by talking with the person they want to help. Getting their permission and agreeing on the goal, the story and how much privacy they want is a respectful first step.
Next, organizers usually choose a way to collect funds. Options include online crowdfunding platforms, a community or church collection, or an account set up for the beneficiary. Each platform and payment processor has its own terms of service, fees and payout policies, so it helps to read them carefully and follow them.
Then comes the story. Organizers typically write a clear explanation, add a photo or short video, share an update schedule and spread the word through email, social media, congregations and local groups. Many also thank donors publicly and post honest updates about how the money is being used.
How the right fundraising pro may help
The right fundraising pro may help you think through the details before you launch. That might include how to word a campaign so it is truthful and specific, how to respect the beneficiary's privacy, and how to plan outreach to the people most likely to care.
A first conversation is generally a chance to share the situation and goals, and to learn how the pro works. Some specialize in story, copy and campaign video. Others focus on personal-cause or legal-defense fundraising, or on the tax and accounting questions that can come up. No outcome is ever guaranteed.
Helpful questions to ask: What is your experience with campaigns like this one? How do you keep a campaign honest and compliant with platform rules? How will we handle updates and thank-yous? Who should I ask about taxes? Whether funds are taxable or deductible depends on the facts, so a tax professional is the right person to ask.
The bigger picture
Helping someone in need can be meaningful, but it can also be stressful. Organizers sometimes carry worry about getting the words right, handling money well and respecting a loved one's dignity. The beneficiary may also feel mixed emotions about receiving help, so gentle, honest communication matters.
Taking things one step at a time, asking for help and keeping clear records can support peace of mind for everyone involved. If the situation involves a health challenge, Providers.plus is one place to look for wellness resources. If anyone is in crisis, the 988 Lifeline is available.
Keep in mind
- Get the beneficiary's permission and agree on the purpose, story and privacy before you launch.
- Be truthful and specific, and use the money only as described; misusing donations can be fraud.
- Read the terms of service, fee and payout policies of any platform you use, and follow them.
- Ask a tax professional how donations may be treated in your situation, and never assume the outcome. No fundraiser is guaranteed to succeed.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Start a fundraiser →Frequently asked questions
How do I start a fundraiser for someone else?
Start by talking with the person and getting their blessing, then agree on the purpose, the amount needed and who will receive the funds. Next, choose a way to collect donations, write an honest story and share it with your community. When you're ready, you can start a fundraiser on 2a.support.
Do I need the person's permission to fundraise for them?
In most cases it is wise and respectful to get their permission first. It helps ensure the story is accurate, protects their privacy and avoids confusion about who will receive the money. Platforms may also have their own rules, so review their terms.
Who receives the money when I fundraise for someone?
It depends on the setup and the terms of the method you use. Funds may go to the organizer, who then passes them on, or directly to the beneficiary. Whatever the arrangement, be clear with donors about it and use the money only as described.
Are donations to a personal fundraiser taxable?
It depends on the facts, including who receives the funds and why. Donations to an individual are often not tax-deductible for donors, but you should not rely on a general answer. Ask a tax professional about your situation.
What should I write in a fundraiser for someone?
Explain who the money is for, what happened, what the funds will cover and how you will share updates. Keep it truthful, specific and respectful of the beneficiary's privacy. A story and copy pro may help you shape the message.
Can a fundraising pro help me start a fundraiser for someone?
Possibly. A fundraising pro may help with story, video, outreach planning or understanding platform terms, though results are never guaranteed. 2A Crowd is an independent directory that helps you find such pros, and it does not give legal, tax or financial advice.
Educational resource. 2A Crowd shares general information and connects people with independent fundraising pros. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.