The art of properly raising money for charity – Melissa Emmanuel

Please understand that nobody owes you anything. I know it’s hard when your in the thick of emotion. But you cannot guilt trip people into donations. Trust me I understand the anger and frustration, but people also have their own struggles. Respect that!!!

2. Be specific about the use of the money!

Be VERY specific about what you are raising money for. If is for a specific treatment, you MUST have a clear doctors recommendation and a thought through and legitimate plan as back up. People will ask questions and are entitled to do so. Have the answer, so there is no question over the campaigns legitimacy.

3. Personal expenses are a valid reason for fundraising

If it is for personal expenses, SAY IT! Cancer is a costly disease. I was on unpaid leave for 8 months; I know what it’s like. However, if you are in the UK in particular, there are carers benefits, disability benefits, grants and bursaries. To get people’s buy in, you need to be specific about what you intend to use the money for.

4. Keep the generous public updated

Once you have raised some money. Give updates as to how the money raised was used. Be transparent at all times. From £100 to £10,000,000, I REPEAT be transparent at all times. Accountability is everything.

Stay strong, people. There was a beginning and there will also be an end. This too shall pass xx

Melissa Emmanuel is the wife of Larry ‘The Natural’ Ekundayo, the undisputed African Boxing Union, Welterweight international Masters title holder and 2012 Prizefighter champion. Our beautiful little girl who is known and loved by the people at Viva Naija as “Laa-Laa” is their daughter, Larissa Ayola Destiny Ekundayo. 

You can support this family by keeping up to date with his fights and championship bouts by following him on all his social media handles:

Facebook: @Larrythenatural
Instagram: @larrythenatural_ekundayo
Twitter: @larrynatural