When you think of the word “charity,” chances are you picture smiling volunteers handing out food, rescuing animals, supporting veterans, or helping families during a crisis. It’s heartwarming — the very definition of that “feel-good” moment.
But behind the scenes, the world of charity fundraising is anything but warm and fuzzy.
When of my common sayings is “When the blood hits the water, all the big sharks come to feed. If you’re scared, either grow a fin or get out of the water” because charity fundraising is a blood sport.
The truth? It’s fiercely competitive. And if your nonprofit or cause is trying to raise money through events, campaigns, or community drives, you’re entering a crowded arena where fundraising success doesn’t just come from having a good mission — it comes from knowing how to get attention, fast.
The Billion-Dollar Battle You’re In
In 2024 alone, according to GivingUSA, charities in the United States received a staggering $592.5 billion in donations. That number doesn’t even include the money raised through smaller fundraising events, benefit galas, or grassroots efforts that go unreported.
In total, when you include private fundraising platforms, online fundraising sites, corporate sponsorships, and event fundraising, the number likely exceeds one trillion dollars a year.
And here's the part most people overlook:
That much money attracts serious competition.
Thousands of organizations — big and small — are constantly looking for easy fundraising ideas, new tools, and charity event strategies to get their share of it. And many are turning to professional fundraising assistance, experienced charity auctioneers, and event planning companies to guide them.
Let’s Make It Local: The Harford County Example
Take Harford County, Maryland as a real-world example.
The county has about 1,370 registered nonprofits
It spans 437 square miles
That’s an average of 3.13 charities per square mile
That doesn’t even include all the school fundraising groups, community clubs, and volunteer-led benefit efforts trying to raise money for their cause.
Now imagine all those organizations sitting around a round table. Someone walks in and dumps a huge pile of cash in the center. What happens?
Everyone dives in.
This is exactly how it feels when you’re planning a fundraising event. Whether it's a gala, auction, online campaign, or donor dinner — you're surrounded by other groups hoping to do the same thing, often at the same time.
Why Some Charities Stay Small (While Others Keep Growing)
Here’s the truth that stings: your cause might be incredibly important but so are thousands of others.
Everyone believes their mission matters. But donors only have so much to give, and they’re more likely to support organizations that look professional, feel trustworthy, and host high-quality charity events that actually engage them.
The big charities? They’ve figured this out. They know how to:
Use online tools and fundraising platforms
Create standout fundraising event ideas
Leverage social media and fundraising sites to attract attention
Partner with companies that provide expert help and guidance
Your charity fighting to be recognized against very large, well established nonprofits is like being thrown into the ring fighting Mike Tyson - you don’t have a shot going “Toe to Toe” with them.
Meanwhile, many smaller nonprofits try to do it all themselves — struggling with DIY plans, no event experience, and outdated methods that don’t excite or convert.
So… What Should You Do?
First, understand that success isn't just about your mission. It’s about visibility, planning, and execution.
If you’re serious about making your charity fundraising efforts work — whether for a nonprofit, school, club, or volunteer project — you need more than hope. You need real help.
At BW Unlimited Charity Fundraising, we specialize in helping charities and causes plan fundraising events that actually work. From creative fundraising ideas for nonprofits to elite auction items and planning support, we give you the tools and team to rise above the noise and attract real donors.
Because when the money hits the table, you don’t want to be the one left empty-handed.
Let’s Talk
📞 Call us at 443.206.6121
🌐 Or visit www.BWUnlimited.com to learn how we can help you plan a high-impact event and finally get the results you’ve been working for.
