Fundraising ideas for 2026
As we head into a new year, many of us start thinking about fresh goals - getting healthier, reconnecting with friends, or doing something meaningful for our community.
For over 25 years, The Link Visiting Scheme has been transforming lives through the power of friendship, helping people in Wokingham feel less lonely and more connected. With demand for our services continuing to grow, fundraising has never been more important.
Whether you want to take on a challenge, host something sociable, or simply give back in a small but powerful way, here are lots of easy ways to get involved in 2026.
Give something up (and get sponsored)
Abstain for a cause
Give up something you’d really miss (think: chocolate, alcohol, takeaways, or social media!) and ask friends and family to sponsor your self-control.
Quit it
Have a habit you’d like to break? Make it official and get sponsored to quit.
One day of silence
A surprisingly tough challenge - perfect for sponsorship!
Host something social
Afternoon tea
Invite friends, neighbours or colleagues for tea, cake and good company, with donations instead of ticket prices.
Garden party or BBQ
Open up your garden or host a summer get-together and ask guests to donate or pay a small entry fee.
Wine & cheese evening
Ask a local wine seller to help you host a tasting night, with ticket sales or donations supporting The Link.
Quiz night or bingo
Great for pubs, village halls or workplaces - simple to run and always popular.
Film night
Host a cosy ‘night at the movies’ at home or work, with snacks and a small ticket price.
Use what you already have
Clear-out challenge
Sell unwanted items on Vinted, Marketplace, eBay or at a car-boot sale and donate the proceeds.
Unwanted gifts
We all have them - why not turn them into something meaningful? Donate them to us to use as raffle prizes at our events, or sell them and donate the proceeds.
Plant or seed sale
Sell spare plants, cuttings or seedlings to friends and neighbours.
Workplace & everyday ideas
Dress down (or up!) day
Ask colleagues to donate in return for wearing something casual or something fun.
Coffee or commute fund
Working from home? Donate the money you’d usually spend on coffee or travel.
Matched giving
Many employers will match what you raise, doubling your impact.
Mark a special occasion
Alternative gifts
Ask for donations instead of birthday or anniversary presents.
Christmas card donations
Donate what you’d usually spend on cards.
Take on a challenge
Sponsored events
Walk, run, cycle, swim, bake, or even shave your head, solo or as a team.
Game-a-thon or board game night
From Scrabble to online gaming, charge an entry fee and offer a small prize.
Raffles, auctions & competitions
Bake-off
A classic! Judge the best-looking and best-tasting bakes.
Raffle or auction
Ask local businesses or friends to donate prizes.
Jumble or garage sale
Perfect for community groups, schools or neighbourhoods.
Every donation helps us continue to offer friendship, companionship and connection to people who would otherwise feel alone. Your support, whether big or small, truly makes a difference.
Download our fundraising pack full of tips and ideas or get in touch with our team. We’d love to help you get started.