How to Write Fundraising Descriptions That Get Donations | Happy Pot Guide

When writing fundraising campaign descriptions that work in Switzerland, you need to pay attention to several key points. First and foremost, be clear, open, and share the story with real feeling. Tell a genuine story about a real person, while clearly explaining who needs help, why support is necessary, what the funds will cover, and how the donations will have a direct impact. Maintain a respectful and honest tone, point out the definite goals so that the donors are sure and understand how their help will bring a change.

Here is the step-by-step process to write a fundraising description, below:

Step 1: Start With a Clear, Emotional Opening

Your fundraising description opening is more important than most people think. People make decisions on whether to continue reading or not within a few seconds. That is why it is not always effective to start with vague lines such as "I need help" or "Please donate" to get someone interested in your post. Start with something tangible and personal instead. Describe the event, the place of the event, call the name of the city or canton, and make it clear why the situation must be taken care of at this moment.

A clear, concrete start makes your message feel genuine and gives readers a reason to keep going.

For example:
 “Last month in Geneva, my father was diagnosed with a rare heart condition that requires urgent surgery within the next six weeks.”

This kind of opening works because it is precise, local, time-sensitive, and human. In Switzerland, donors respond better to clarity and facts than to exaggerated emotional appeals. Keep it sincere and grounded.

Step 2: Clearly Explain What Happened

Right after that opening, lay out what's actually going on. People want to understand the situation before they even think about donating. What's the problem? Why can't it wait? Why do you need help from strangers?

Here's the thing about Switzerland: everyone knows the healthcare system here is solid. So donors are going to wonder why insurance isn't covering this. Get straight to the point, address the matter directly. When did the diagnosis come through? What's insurance actually paying for? How much are you required to cover in CHF? What's the deadline?

When you answer these questions upfront, you're not just sharing information, you're building trust. And trust is what gets people to actually donate.

Step 3: Introduce the Person or Cause in a Human Way

Nobody opens their wallet for an abstract cause. They give to people they can picture and relate to. So after you've explained the situation, introduce whoever needs help in a way that feels human and dignified.

Try something like: "Markus is 52, an electrician from Bern who's been showing up to work for 25 years to take care of his family. This is the first time he's ever had to ask anyone for money."

That paints a picture. It creates a connection. What it doesn't do is guilt-trip anyone or lay the emotion on too thick. Swiss audiences can smell manipulation from a mile away, and they don't respond well to it. Keep it balanced and honest.

Step 4: State the Exact Fundraising Goal (In CHF)

In the case of fundraising, clarity is important with regard to money. General statements such as We need support or We need help with expenses do not provide enough information to the donors. It is far more productive to say how much you are actually seeking to raise and how you will use the money. A straightforward, clear breakdown will make people know where their money is going and will give them confidence in your campaign.

For example:

Total Goal: CHF 8,000

• CHF 4,500: Surgery costs not covered by insurance
• CHF 2,000: Post-surgery rehabilitation
• CHF 1,500: Temporary income support during recovery

Research in fundraising consistently shows that when donors understand exactly where their money is going, they feel more confident contributing. It also assists in demonstrating that the goal is realistic. Divide the total into smaller amounts that are relatable. As an illustration, say that with a specific number of individuals donating CHF 50 each, the goal can be achieved. Once the supporters understand the way their personal contribution fits into the larger picture, the goal becomes more achievable and attainable.

Step 5: Explain the Impact of Donations

After explaining what you need, shift the subject to what happens next. People don't just want to help solve a problem, they want to know their donation creates a real result.

Put it like this: "Your support means Markus can have surgery on schedule and get back to work in three months. Without it, his condition gets worse, and the complications become permanent."

Now you're not just asking for money, you're offering people a chance to make something happen.

Step 6: Add Proof and Transparency

In Switzerland, people need to believe what you're telling them. Strengthen your case by mentioning things like medical documentation, cost breakdowns, timelines, or photos (kept respectful, of course).

One thing that makes a bigger difference than many people expect is committing to regular updates. When you keep donors informed about progress, milestones, or changes, the campaign stays active and credible. The campaigns that update regularly are always likely to have more momentum and are usually supported. Updates also help people to know that the money is being spent in the manner promised and help to build confidence in your hard work.

Step 7: End With a Clear and Respectful Call to Action

Your closing should be simple, calm, and confident. Avoid long emotional endings or language that pressures people into giving.

Instead, use direct but respectful phrases such as:

• “Please consider donating today.”
• “Even CHF 20 brings us closer to our goal.”
• “If you cannot donate, sharing this campaign would mean a lot.”

Clear and composed language builds confidence. When donors feel respected rather than pressured, they are more likely to contribute.

Common Mistakes That Reduce Donations

After analyzing competitor content and real fundraising behavior, here are the frequent mistakes:

1. Being Too Vague

“Help us in this difficult time” does not convert.

2. No Financial Breakdown

Swiss donors expect clarity.

3. Emotional Overload

Overly dramatic language reduces credibility.

4. No Clear Goal

If there is no exact amount, donors hesitate.

5. No Updates

Inactive campaigns lose trust.

6. Large Text Blocks

Long paragraphs reduce readability and engagement.

Structure increases conversions.

Quick Checklist Before Publishing on Happy Pot

Before you press publish, make sure that you have checked the following list:

✔ Strong and specific opening
✔Proper explanation of the situation
✔ Human introduction
✔ Exact goal in CHF
✔ Detailed cost breakdown
✔ Realistic impact explanation
✔ Transparent documentation mentioned
✔ Direct CTA
✔ Proofread for clarity

In case of anybox unchecked, revised.

Conclusion: Why Structure Wins in Switzerland

Successful fundraising descriptions are not about dramatic writing. They are about clarity, credibility, and measurable impact.

• Clear stories build trust.
• Trust drives donations
• Transparency increases long-term support

On Happy Pot, your description is your strongest fundraising tool.

Use this structure to write your Happy Pot fundraising description today,  and turn attention into real support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a fundraiser description?

Fundraiser description is a clear explanation of why money is being raised, who it will serve, how much it is required, and how the money will be utilized. It creates trust through transparency and by displaying the actual effects of donations.

2. How do you write a fundraiser description?

A fundraiser description is written by starting with a particular scenario, describing the issue, presenting the individual or reason, stating the specific amount required (in CHF in Switzerland), dividing the costs, and finishing with a powerful call to action.

3. What are the best phrases to ask for donations?

Using direct and simple phrases is the best, like: "Please, consider making a donation today, even CHF 20 will help, or, in case you cannot donate, please share. Do not use guilt-based or overdramatic language.

4. How do you ask for donations for fundraising?

Be specific on the necessity, why it is required, give a transparent financial breakdown, and demonstrate what the donation will achieve. Emotional pressure is not as effective as confidence and honesty.

5. What is a good message for fundraising?

A good fundraising message is accurate, emotional, and clear. It is clear, states the purpose of the fundraising, and shows how the donations would create a tangible difference.

6. What are good ways to start a donation message?

A good way to start a donation message is by using a real event or an urgent situation. Mention where the event happened and who is involved. Avoid generic openings like “I need help.” Instead, focus on a concrete, relatable moment.

7. What is another way to say “donate now”?

You can say “Support this campaign today,” “Contribute today,” “Make a contribution,” or “Help us reach our goal.” Keep the wording direct and respectful.

8. How do you get people to donate?

Individuals contribute to the campaign when they have faith in it. Clearly told stories, clear financial information, frequent updates, and a powerful appeal to action are some of the factors that would greatly enhance the chances of getting support.