We know: No one likes asking for money. But fundraising for the Birdathon doesn’t have to be intimidating or hard. Here are some great tools to make it easier and more successful. And remember, you’re asking on behalf of those who can’t ask for themselves: the wildlife we cherish.

Green Heron.
Photo by Michael Sciortino

Tools

Not sure how to write an ask? Here are some templates and tools to get you started. (More coming soon.)

Friends and Family Email Ask Template (Word doc or PDF)  — Use this email template as-is or as a starting point when asking friends and family for pledges or donations via email.

Why Support Loudoun Wildlife Video — Donors want to know exactly what their support makes possible, and this short, inspiring video will tell them. Consider including this in your emails or online posts.

Who to Ask

Friends and Family
It’s always more comfortable asking friends and family for donations, so feel free to start there! Share on your social feeds, send emails, and let them know how important this cause is to you AND how important the impact of their support will be for Loudoun Wildlife.

Neighbors and Neighborhood Groups
Once you’ve asked friends and family, consider reaching out to your neighbors or any neighborhood online groups you may be a part of. Who knows? Maybe they’ll form a team of their own. If you have a local place of worship and it’s appropriate, consider asking there, too.

Businesses and Organizations You Support
Are you a regular at a local restaurant, coffee shop or other business? Next time you place an order, ask if they’d like to sponsor your team. Let them know their support helps protect, preserve and restore ALL wildlife habitat here in Loudoun County. You may also want to reach out via email or phone to contacts at other organizations you may have a connection to.

Bird walk Attendees
If you’re leading or attending any of our bird walks during Celebrate Birds month, make sure to promote the Birdathon and your team to your fellow walkers and watchers. Direct them to our website and social media channels for more information or bring some printed information with you to share as appropriate.

Anyone not on this list? Ask away!

How to Ask

Here are some general tips for how to make an ask that gets results.

1. Make it personal. Talk about why you care about birds and wildlife habitat and how a supporter can make a lasting, tangible difference.
2. Ask with Pride. Remember, you’re asking for support of a truly powerful, difference-making mission that’s more vital than ever. Don’t apologize for asking, but ask with confidence and pride for what you’re supporting and what you’re asking others to support.
3. Use Every Platform You Can. Email, social media, phone, person-to-person … use all of these opportunities to make your ask. You’ll be surprised at the results of casting a wide net! If posting online, tag Loudoun Wildlife and use the hashtags #LWCBirdathon2025 and #LWCbirdathon so we can acknowledge and share what you’ve posted.
4. Say “Thank-You”. Show your gratitude as soon as you can when someone makes a donation or commits to a pledge. Let them know how much of a difference they’ve made, not just for the Birdathon, but for a ongoing, powerful mission. You may even want to follow up again after the Birdathon with some photos of your team and the birds you saw.

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