Go-Elective Complete Guide to Fundraising for Your Placement Abroad

Section 1: Introduction to Fundraising

Going abroad to explore healthcare in underserved communities and seek adventure is a remarkable opportunity. However, the price tag attached might seem daunting. A 2-week elective or medical internship to Kenya costs around $2,500 excluding airfare. But before you dismiss the idea due to finances, here's some promising news: fundraising and paying in installments option. 

In this guide, we'll equip you with tools to finance your trip. While it requires dedication and effort, it's achievable. Throughout, we'll explore proven fundraising strategies with practical advice. We aim to provide valuable insights and tips to support your fundraising journey. 

Let's turn your dream of traveling the world exploring global healthcare into reality! 

 

Section 2: Fundraising Strategies

1. Getting Sponsored

Approach local businesses, groups, and even corporate sponsors for financial support. Personalize your sponsorship requests and highlight the benefits to sponsors, such as publicity or involvement in your trip. 

2. Applying for Grants

Contact your school’s international programs office to inquire about potential scholarship opportunities. Scholarships aren't solely reserved for tuition; these funds can also be utilized to support educational trips. Remember to highlight the advantages of your trip and its alignment with your academic goals. 

Websites like Scholarships.com, Scholarship America, StudentAid.gov and Grants.gov offer various opportunities.

3. Crowdfunding

Utilize the internet to fundraise for your Go Elective trip. Condense your fundraising letter for social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and others. Create a graphic for visual platforms. 

Use crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe, Razzoo, or FundmyTravel. These platforms allow flexible donations. 

4. Work Part-Time

Consider a part-time job if other fundraising methods fall short. It's a quick way to earn funds without a long-term commitment. Alternatively, if asking for help is challenging,

split trip costs into installments. For example, $2,500 can be paid in four $500 installments. 

You can also explore Interest-Free Financing by getting credit approval for post-trip payment. This flexible option lets you settle the balance after returning home. 

5. Hosting Fundraising Events

Organizing events such as dinner parties, film nights, or quiz nights can generate substantial funds. Keep events small-scale but don't shy away from setting reasonable ticket prices. 

6. Running Sales

From vintage clothes to homemade cakes, branded tshirts or merchandise, selling items or organizing a bring-and-buy sale can be lucrative. Create a hashtag such as #EmmasGlobalMedTrip and utilize social media and campus resources to promote your sale effectively. 

7. Holding Competitions

Organize competitions or raffles with attractive prizes. Utilize online resources for ideas and consider seeking donations from local organizations for prizes.

8. Thinking Outside the Box

Get creative with fundraising ideas, such as bungee jumping or themed events. Unconventional approaches often attract attention and donations.

 

Section 3: Writing Your Online Fundraising Profile

1. Defining Your Aims

Clearly articulate your fundraising goals, whether it's covering trip costs or specific expenses like flights or supplies for local hospitals.

2. Telling Your Personal Story

Share your motivations for undertaking the elective and your connection to healthcare. Highlighting your interests and experiences adds authenticity to your fundraising appeal.

3. Explaining Where Donations Will Go

Provide a breakdown of expenses to demonstrate transparency. Include details about the destination, accommodation, and support services provided by organizations like GoElective. 

4. Expressing Your Reasons for the Trip

Communicate the significance of the experience and its impact on your personal and professional development. Emphasize cultural exchange, learning opportunities, and the value of hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. 

Top Tips:

• Use compelling photographs. 
• Engage offline networks. 
• Leverage social media to promote your fundraising page effectively.
• Consider offline fundraising activities and involve friends and family in spreading the word. 

 

Section 4: Getting Your Message Out

1. Pitching Your Story

Craft a relevant and timely narrative that resonates with local audiences. Connect your trip to current events or issues to capture media interest. Highlight unique aspects of your journey, such as cultural immersion, academic pursuits, or community engagement initiatives. 

2. Approaching Local News Sites

Focus on local publications for targeted exposure. Highlight your ties to the community and emphasize the newsworthy aspects of your journey. Offer to provide additional information, interviews, or photos to support your story and increase its appeal.

3. Getting on Local Radio Stations: 

Target local radio stations or university radio channels for interviews or features. Prepare interesting anecdotes and facts to captivate listeners. 

4. Asking Your Student Union for Help

Utilize university resources, such as student publications or alumni networks, to amplify your fundraising efforts. Engage with student clubs and societies to reach a broader audience. 

 

Section 5: Budgeting for Your Trip

1. Flights

Research and book flights early to secure the best deals. Consult with program administrators for recommendations on airlines and arrival airports.

2. Spending Money

Budget for daily expenses, including meals outside the program, transportation, and leisure activities. Plan ahead for weekend trips and factor in currency exchange rates.

3. In-Country Travel

Consider cost-effective travel options within your destination, such as choosing trains or roads over air travel for activities like safaris. Additionally, consider using the program's private transport or safe public transport, accompanied by local staff, for weekend excursions. 

4. Insurance

Prioritize indemnity insurance for clinical placements and comprehensive travel insurance for personal coverage. Additionally, check if your school or university provides insurance coverage for students, and explore potential insurance benefits offered by your bank.

5. Additional Expenses

Account for vaccinations, visas, and donations to local hospitals. Budget for extra luggage fees and essential travel items like travel adapters.

 

Conclusion

By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-equipped to fundraise successfully for your overseas healthcare internship and embark on a transformative journey with confidence. Remember, with determination, no goal is out of reach. We hope this guide has offered valuable insights. For further assistance, reach out to our team. Here's to turning aspirations into unforgettable experiences in Kenya and beyond.

 

Excited to gain international internship or study abroad experience on a budget? Reach out to the Go Elective team at goelective.com/#inquiry or email us at hello@goelective.com