Summary
Autism Care Society Gandaki was registered as an NGO in Pokhara, Nepal, in 2019. They envision a society where individuals with autism in the Gandaki region live with dignity, independence, and inclusivity, realizing their full potential and contributing meaningfully to their communities. Having participated in a Change the Game Academy local fundraising training, they decided to launch their own fundraising campaign to continue funding their Parent Child Training Program, with success.
Tips and lessons learned
1. We faced problems while developing fundraising materials at the initial stage of the campaign when no funds had come in yet.
2. For a campaign like ours you need a lot of volunteers.
3. It is often very difficult to convince potential donors to donate.
Review by Wilde Ganzen Foundation
Raising awareness and giving information on autism, combined with fundraising, proved to be a very good idea and can easily be copied by other fundraisers reading this example. Another strong point is not to put all your eggs in one basket, but develop and implement various plans to raise funds. ACSG sold T-shirts and street food, approached local bodies of government and did a special fundraising campaign among former residents of Pokhara now living abroad.
Details
Short description of the organisation the funds were raised for
Autism Care Society is an NGO established in 2019 in Pokhara, Nepal. Our mission is to empower individuals with autism and their families by providing comprehensive support, education, and resources. Through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and collaborative efforts, we strive to promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion for individuals with autism in the Gandaki region. We are dedicated to enhancing their quality of life, fostering independence, and advocating for their rights to ensure they thrive in all aspects of society. Currently we are providing direct services to 35 children with autism through the Day Care Centre and Training Centre.
Short description of the project or programme the funds were raised for
To run the Parent Child Training Program (PCTP) for children with autism and their parents, a fundraising programme has been started. Local funds raised through this campaign are to be used for the continued smooth running of the programme.
Summary of fundraising action
Fundraising activities involved running a food stall on our premises, T-shirt sales in various areas of Pokhara, a donation campaign among people from Pokhara living elsewhere and fund collection from local municipalities. Significant funds have been collected till now.
Objectives
1. To raise a good amount of funds that supports us to run the PCTP programme.
2. While conveying the message that we have also done our share of efforts.
3. And make a move towards sustainability.
Targeted donors
1. Private sector, local entrepreneurs
2. Local government bodies
3. Allies and well-wishers
Results
Cost/benefit |
National currency (NPR |
Euro |
Total amount raised |
12,000,000 |
80,698 |
(-) Total amount invested |
500,000 |
3,362 |
Net amount raised |
11,500,000 |
77,336 |
Accounting details
1. More than 150 donations, 90+ new donors.
2. A strong supportive network has been developing.
Result comments
Costs so far: NPR 500,000
Description of preparatory work
1. Team formation.
2. Network formation for the campaign among former Pokhara residents living abroad.
3. T-shirt printing.
4. Place and cooks for food stall.
5. Proposals to local municipalities.
Description of implementation
1. T-shirt sales in various areas of Pokhara.
2. Running a food stall on the Autism Care Society premises.
3. Conducting a donation drive among people of Pokhara living in foreign countries.
4. Collecting funds from local wards and municipalities.
Follow up: Donor appreciation and acknowledgement
We are continuously implementing these fundraising efforts and do not forget to thank and recognise our donors.
Plans to repeat the action
The campaign is ongoing and will be a continuous programme for us in coming years. There are plans to expand to rural areas as well.