Fundraising takes effort, but it’s fun when you have the right tools! Use our fundraising resources below to spread the word and support local animals in need.

Canberra Paws Walk Fundraising Tips

Thank you for stepping up to fundraise for animals in need! Once you register, you’ll receive your own personal fundraising page. Every share, ask and update helps create real impact for the animals supported by RSPCA ACT.

Here are our top tips to help you reach (and even smash!) your fundraising goal.  Inspired by what’s worked for thousands of walkers through previous Million Paws Walks and proven peer-to-peer fundraising best practice.

1. Make your page paws-onally yours

People give to people, not just causes. Make sure your profile page reflects you and why you want to support RSPCA ACT. Make sure you:

• Add a photo of you (or you and your pet).
• Write a short personal message (3–5 sentences): why you’re walking, why animal welfare matters to you, and what donations will help you achieve.
• Set a clear fundraising goal - it motivates you and helps supporters see your progress.

Quick starter script:
“Hi! I’m taking part in Canberra Paws Walk 2026 to support animals in need through RSPCA ACT. I’d love your help to make a difference. Every donation helps provide care, safety and a second chance.”

2. Set a target (and make it feel achievable)

If you’re unsure where to start, pick a comfortable goal - can always increase it once you’re close.

Tip: break it down.
For example: If 20 friends give $25, I’ll reach $500.

3. Ask your “inner circle” first

Your first few donations create momentum.

Start with:

• close friends and family
• workmates
• neighbours or your dog-park crew

Once people see others have already donated, they’re much more likely to join in.

4. Be specific in your ask

Instead of “please donate”, try:

• “Could you chip in $25 to help me reach my goal?”
• “Would you be one of my first 5 donors this week?”
• “Could you share my page to help me reach more people and support more animals?”

Clear asks make it easier for people to say yes.

5. Spread the woof - and share more than once

Most people won’t donate the first time they see your page (they’re busy, not uninterested!). Sharing multiple times is completely normal.

Try mixing it up:

• Week 1: announce + your why
• Week 2: progress update
• Week 3: story or photo
• Final week: friendly “last push” reminder

Share via:

• social media
• email
• text or messaging apps

Don’t rely on just one channel - personal messages are incredibly powerful.

6. Use the ready-made resources

We have provided above -  social tiles, posters and a fundraising plan to help you promote your page. These are perfect for social posts, workplace noticeboards or email signatures. Use them to save time and boost visibility.

7. Get creative with your fundraising

Make it fun and interactive:

• Host a morning tea, BBQ or bake sale
• Ask your workplace about donation matching
• Walk a neighbour’s dog for a donation
• Offer something in return (pet sitting, coffee catch-ups, dress-up day, etc.)

Little ideas can add up quickly.

8. Rally the pack (fundraise together)

Fundraising doesn’t have to be solo:

• Invite friends, family or colleagues to join you (or you can create a team!)
• Encourage them to create their own pages
• Share and celebrate each other’s progress

Team fundraising often leads to bigger results, and more fun along the way.

9. Show progress and say thank you

Updates and gratitude keep momentum going:

• Share when you hit 25%, 50% or your full goal
• Thank donors (publicly if they’re comfortable)
• Let people know how close you are

Your fundraising page automatically thanks donors,  but a personal message goes a long way.

10. Add a mini-challenge

Give people an extra reason to jump in:

• “$10 Tuesday”
• “Sponsor my walk: $5 per km”
• “If I hit $500 by Friday, I’ll wear paw-print socks to work!”

Small challenges make fundraising feel playful and engaging.

11. Don’t forget your workplace

Workplaces can be one of your strongest supporters:

• Ask your manager to share your link internally
• Post in team chats or newsletters
• Start a friendly team challenge

A few colleagues can quickly make a big difference.

A simple 7-point fundraising plan

Part 1: Personalise your page + set your goal
Part 2: Ask 5 close people directly
Part 3: Share on social
Part 4: Reach out at work
Part 5: Post a progress update + thank donors
Part 6: Ask 5 more people (a different circle)
Part 7: Friendly “last push this week” message

Repeat as needed!

Every dollar you raise helps provide care, shelter and life-changing support to animals in our community. Thank you for being part of Canberra Paws Walk – your fundraising (and more importantly – your participation!) truly makes tails wag and hearts sing.